Aircraft Maintenance Licensing Explained: AME, Part-66 & FAA A&P Guide

Aircraft maintenance is one of the most safety-critical professions in aviation. Every aircraft that flies must be maintained and certified by qualified and licensed professionals. Understanding aircraft maintenance licensing is essential for anyone planning a career in aviation maintenance or seeking to understand how safety is regulated in the industry.

This article provides a clear and beginner-friendly explanation of Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) roles, the EASA Part-66 licensing system, and the FAA A&P license. It is designed to help students, professionals, and aviation enthusiasts understand licensing pathways worldwide.

What Is an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)?

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) is a trained and licensed professional authorized to inspect, maintain, and certify aircraft for safe operation.

AMEs play a vital role in aviation safety. Their responsibilities include:

• Performing aircraft inspections and maintenance
• Following approved maintenance manuals and procedures
• Identifying and correcting defects
• Certifying aircraft as airworthy after maintenance
• Ensuring compliance with aviation regulations

Licensing ensures that only qualified and competent individuals are allowed to work on aircraft.

Why Aircraft Maintenance Licensing Is Important

Aircraft maintenance licensing exists to protect:

• Passenger safety
• Aircraft reliability
• Regulatory compliance
• Industry standards and professionalism

Without proper licensing, aircraft maintenance activities would pose serious safety risks. Licensing systems define training requirements, examinations, and experience levels needed to work in aviation maintenance.

EASA Part-66 Licensing System

EASA Part-66 is a European aircraft maintenance licensing system regulated by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). It is widely recognized and used in many countries outside Europe as well.

Part-66 licenses are divided into categories based on job responsibilities and system specialization.

Part-66 Category A – Line Maintenance Mechanic

Category A is generally considered an entry-level maintenance license.

• Authorized to perform limited line maintenance tasks
• Can certify simple maintenance actions
• Works under supervision and authorization

This category is often the first step for individuals entering the aircraft maintenance profession.

Part-66 Category B1 – Mechanical

The B1 license focuses on mechanical aircraft systems.

• Airframe systems
• Powerplant and engines
• Mechanical and hydraulic systems

B1 engineers are authorized to certify mechanical maintenance tasks and play a major role in aircraft maintenance operations.

Part-66 Category B2 – Avionics

The B2 license is dedicated to avionics and electrical systems.

• Electrical power systems
• Avionics and instruments
• Navigation and communication systems

B2 engineers specialize in electronic and avionics maintenance, which is increasingly important in modern aircraft.

FAA A&P License Overview

The FAA A&P license is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States.

A&P stands for:

• A – Airframe
• P – Powerplant

Holders of an A&P license are authorized to:

• Maintain airframe systems
• Maintain aircraft engines and powerplants
• Work on US-registered aircraft

The FAA A&P system differs from Part-66, but it is globally respected and widely recognized.

Part-66 vs FAA A&P: Key Differences

Part-66	FAA A&P
Category-based licensing	Combined Airframe & Powerplant
Used mainly in Europe and internationally	Used mainly in the United States
Modular exams and experience	Integrated certification system

Which License Should You Choose?

The right maintenance license depends on:

• The country where you plan to work
• The type of aircraft you want to maintain
• Your career goals (mechanical or avionics)
• Regulatory authority requirements

It is important to research licensing requirements early and plan your education and training accordingly.

Important Career Note

Introductory and theoretical courses can help you understand aircraft maintenance concepts and licensing pathways. However, they do not replace approved training, examinations, or regulatory experience requirements set by aviation authorities.

Conclusion

Aircraft maintenance licensing is a critical part of aviation safety. Understanding:

• The role of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)
• EASA Part-66 license categories
• FAA A&P licensing system

helps students and professionals make informed career decisions. With proper training, experience, and licensing, aircraft maintenance professionals play a vital role in keeping aviation safe worldwide.

References

• EASA – European Union Aviation Safety Agency
• FAA – Federal Aviation Administration
• ICAO – International Civil Aviation Organization
• Aircraft Maintenance Licensing Regulations (Part-66)