How much does a Aircraft Mechanic make?
Aircraft mechanics enjoy a rewarding career, with competitive salaries to match their skill set. On average, aircraft mechanics earn about $74,401 per year. This figure represents a fair compensation for the crucial role they play in ensuring the safety and efficiency of aircraft.
Looking at specific salary ranges, mechanics can expect to earn anywhere from $46,000 to over $100,000 annually. Entry-level mechanics might start on the lower end, while experienced and certified professionals often reach the higher end of the scale. Several factors influence these earnings, including the mechanic's level of experience, certifications, and the employer's industry. For instance, mechanics who work for airlines or large maintenance companies typically earn more than those in smaller operations.
What are the highest paying cities for a Aircraft Mechanic?

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Wilmington, NC
Average Salary: $86,278
In Wilmington, working as a skilled professional involves maintaining and repairing aircraft. Job opportunities often include positions with major companies such as Delta Air Lines and US Airways. The city's robust aviation industry offers a solid environment for growth and development.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $85,212
Las Vegas offers a dynamic job market with opportunities in both commercial and private aviation sectors. Companies like Southwest Airlines and Allegiant Air provide varied roles. The bustling city scene brings unique challenges and diverse experiences for professionals in the field.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $84,368
Honolulu's job market for aviation professionals includes roles with Hawaiian Airlines and other local carriers. The scenic and diverse environment offers a unique backdrop for work. Opportunities here often involve unique maintenance tasks due to the island setting.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $82,888
St. Louis is home to major airlines, including American Airlines, providing a wealth of opportunities. The city's focus on aviation logistics makes it an ideal place to build a career. Workers here often enjoy a strong community feel within the industry.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $82,762
San Francisco's aviation industry thrives with companies like United Airlines and Southwest Airlines. The city's tech-savvy environment and diverse opportunities make it an attractive place for aviation professionals. The competitive market here demands skilled and adaptable workers.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $82,568
San Jose's tech-driven market, including companies like Google’s Air Ventures, offers unique challenges. Professionals here enjoy a blend of traditional and tech-focused aviation roles. The city's innovative atmosphere fosters career growth and development.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $82,231
San Diego offers a diverse job market with opportunities at major airlines and military bases. The city’s climate and coastal location bring unique aspects to the work. Professionals here often appreciate the balance between work and the vibrant local lifestyle.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,456
Sacramento’s job market includes roles with United Airlines and other regional carriers. The city’s central location offers access to various aviation opportunities. Professionals here often find a supportive community and a mix of urban and rural tasks.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $81,270
Los Angeles provides a vast array of job opportunities with major airlines and entertainment-related aviation roles. Companies like Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines offer diverse roles. The city's entertainment industry adds a unique flavor to the job market.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $79,981
Fresno offers a mix of commercial and private aviation roles. The city’s central location in California provides access to many opportunities. Professionals here often enjoy a strong sense of community and a variety of tasks in the aviation sector.
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What are the best companies a Aircraft Mechanic can work for?

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REACH Medical Holdings
Average Salary: $93,635
REACH Medical Holdings offers competitive salaries for Aircraft Mechanics. They focus on air medical services and operate in various locations across the country. This company provides a dynamic environment for Aircraft Mechanics to work in.
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Guardian Flight
Average Salary: $91,637
Guardian Flight provides an excellent salary for Aircraft Mechanics. Specializing in air ambulance services, they are based in the Midwest. This company offers Aircraft Mechanics the chance to work in a critical, life-saving environment.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $91,167
CyberCoders is a recruitment agency that helps place Aircraft Mechanics in high-paying roles. While CyberCoders itself is not a direct employer, the jobs they place individuals in often come with great compensation. They have clients in many states.
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M1 Support Services
Average Salary: $87,980
M1 Support Services offers a solid salary for Aircraft Mechanics. They provide support services to the Department of Defense and other government agencies. Locations include various military bases across the U.S.
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Intermountain Health
Average Salary: $87,024
Intermountain Health provides a good salary for Aircraft Mechanics. They are a large health system with numerous locations in the Western U.S. Working here offers stability and opportunities for career growth.
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A.E USA
Average Salary: $87,000
A.E USA offers a competitive salary for Aircraft Mechanics. They focus on providing aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. Their operations span several states.
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Adams Communication & Engineering Technology
Average Salary: $86,185
Adams Communication & Engineering Technology offers a solid salary for Aircraft Mechanics. They provide engineering services for communication systems. Locations include several major cities in the U.S.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $85,876
Amentum provides an attractive salary for Aircraft Mechanics. They offer professional services to government and commercial clients. Their operations span multiple locations nationwide.
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V2X
Average Salary: $85,813
V2X offers a good salary for Aircraft Mechanics. They focus on providing support services for various government agencies. Their locations include several major cities across the U.S.
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Life Flight Network
Average Salary: $85,776
Life Flight Network provides a competitive salary for Aircraft Mechanics. Specializing in air ambulance services, they operate in several states. This role offers the chance to work in a critical, lifesaving environment.
How to earn more as a Aircraft Mechanic?
Aircraft mechanics can explore several avenues to increase their earnings. This career offers varied opportunities to boost income through experience, specialization, and additional certifications. The right choices can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries. By focusing on these key areas, an aircraft mechanic can advance their career and increase their earning potential.
One effective way to earn more is to gain experience. Experienced mechanics often command higher wages due to their proven track record. Staying with one employer can offer steady advancement opportunities. Seeking positions with airlines or major aircraft companies can also lead to higher-paying roles. Another factor is obtaining additional certifications. These credentials can open doors to more complex and higher-paying jobs. Specializing in areas such as avionics, turbine engines, or helicopter repair can make a mechanic more valuable in the job market.
Other strategies include pursuing further education and networking within the industry. Advanced degrees or technical certifications can lead to promotions and higher salaries. Networking with other professionals can uncover hidden job opportunities and lead to recommendations. Working during peak travel seasons can also provide more job hours and higher pay. Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as an aircraft mechanic:
- Gain experience to command higher wages.
- Obtain additional certifications for more complex roles.
- Specialize in high-demand areas like avionics or turbine engines.
- Pursue further education to boost career prospects.
- Network with industry professionals for better job opportunities.



