Introduction

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) is a specialized and highly regulated field, crucial for ensuring aircraft safety and performance. With DGCA-approved training and licensing, it offers a hands-on engineering career with global applicability. For 2025 aspirants, knowing the eligibility, costs, and top institutes—especially from AERO CET—can accelerate your pathway into licensed technical roles. Let’s explore everything AME in India entails.

What is Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME)?

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) is a specialised technical license program regulated by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). AME engineers are trained and licensed to inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, and certify aircraft before they take flight, making them a vital part of aviation safety.

• License Types: Students pursue either the Mechanical (B1 series) or Avionics (B2) license, covering everything from airframes and engines to advanced aircraft electronic systems.
  
• Course Structure: Typically, AME training includes 2 years of classroom theory plus 1–2 years of hands-on practical training at DGCA-approved Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) organisations.

Once licensed, an AME holds the legal responsibility to sign off on an aircraft’s airworthiness — a role that combines technical expertise with a high level of trust and responsibility.

Eligibility & Entrance

Eligibility Criteria for Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) Course

To apply for the 3-year full-time Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program at institutes like Wingsss College of Aviation Technology, Pune, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

Educational Qualification:

• Passed 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English as compulsory subjects.
  • Minimum 45% marks for General Category candidates.
  • Minimum 40% marks for Reserved Category candidates.
• The qualifying exam must be from a recognized board, university, or equivalent.

OR

• Hold a Diploma in Aeronautical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics Engineering recognised by the State Technical Education Board.

Entrance: Candidates typically appear for entrance tests like AERO CET or AIAEE, where your rank plays a key role in seat allotment and merit-based scholarships at DGCA-approved AME institutes.

Course Details & Fees

Streams & License Categories:
Students can choose from two main DGCA-approved AME license streams:

• Mechanical (B1 Series):
  • B1.1: Heavy Aeroplane Turbine
  • B1.2: Piston Engine Aeroplanes
  • B1.3/B1.4: Helicopters with Turbine or Piston engines
  • These cover aircraft structures, engines, and systems maintenance.
• Avionics (B2 License):
  • Focuses on electrical systems, instruments, radio navigation, and on-board avionics equipment.
  • B2 engineers inspect, maintain, and certify advanced aircraft electronic systems.

Program Duration:

• 2 years of classroom theory + 1–2 years of practical training at DGCA-approved MROs (like Air India, Air Works, or airline tie-ups).
• Some institutes, including WCAT Pune, offer an integrated B.Sc. Aeronautics + AME option for added academic recognition.

Course Fees:

• Tuition Fees: Typically ₹3–6 lakh total for the full program (domestic students).

Top DGCA-Approved AME Institute to Consider

If you’re planning to pursue Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, choosing a DGCA-approved institute with a strong track record is crucial.

Wingsss College of Aviation Technology (WCAT), Pune is one such leading option.

• WCAT is DGCA-approved and offers both Mechanical (B1 series) and Avionics (B2) license training.
  
• The college also provides an integrated B.Sc. Aeronautics + AME program, adding more academic value alongside your technical license.
  
• Students benefit from AERO CET preparation, modern labs, and partnerships with reputed MROs for practical training.
  
• Its Pune location connects students with airlines, MRO hubs, and airport internships for real-world exposure.

If you want to launch your Aircraft Maintenance Engineering career confidently, a well-equipped campus, live practical training, and exam prep support at WCAT can give you a strong start.

📌 Learn more about WCAT Pune here: wcat.in

Training & Career Prospects

• Hands-on Training: Combined theoretical classes and practical, live MRO exposure; graduates receive DGCA license to certify airworthiness.
  
• Employment: Airlines (Air India, IndiGo), MROs (AIESL, Air Works), OEMs, defence.
  
• Salary: Starting ₹3–10 LPA, rising with experience and specialisation

Why Choose Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME)?

A. High Industry Demand & Stability

• India ranks 3rd globally in aviation growth—with a massive fleet expansion, there’s a proven shortage of licensed AME professionals. About 754,000 are needed worldwide.
  
• Government initiatives such as UDAN and booming domestic travel amplify the need for AMEs.
  
• Major projects—like Reliance’s new military MRO in Nagpur and IndiGo’s ₹1,100 crore MRO in Bengaluru—are generating thousands of technician jobs.

B. Essential Role in Aviation Safety

• AMEs ensure flight safety by inspecting, repairing, and certifying aircraft before takeoff; their licenses are mandatory.
  
• They work with complex engines, avionics, and structures—making it a technically challenging and respected job.

C. Quick Entry + Global Opportunities

• AME courses take 2–4 years and combine classroom learning with hands-on training—sometimes on live aircraft like a Boeing 737.
  
• DGCA/EASA-approved licenses allow Indian AMEs to work globally—in airlines, MRO centres, military bases, and manufacturing firms.

D. Career Growth & Rewards

• Entry-level salaries start at ₹6–10 LPA, with mid-senior roles paying much higher.
  
• AMEs can specialise in areas like avionics or engines, and move into management, training, or regulatory jobs.

E. Diverse Work Environments

• AMEs are employed in:
  
  • Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet
    
  • MRO firms: Air Works, HAL, private defence projects
    
  • Aircraft manufacturers and flying clubs

Conclusion

AME offers a rewarding, stable, and globally recognised career path—blending intense technical training with licensed responsibilities. With DGCA-approved institutes across India like IIA Delhi, SCM Kolkata, and IIAEIT Pune, students gain real-world skills and quick access to high-demand roles at airlines, MRO hubs, and defence facilities. If you’re detail-oriented, disciplined, and passionate about aircraft safety, preparing well for AERO CET and choosing a reputable institute will launch your aviation career on the runway to success.