The Current State of A&P Mechanics: How Many Are There?
2 min readAs the aviation industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) or Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics has also increased. A&P mechanics are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft, including engines, electrical systems, and airframes. But how many A&P mechanics are there in the United States?
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there were approximately 170,000 certified A&P mechanics in the United States as of 2020. This number includes both active and inactive mechanics, as well as those who hold multiple certifications. However, the FAA also notes that this number may not be entirely accurate, as some mechanics may hold certifications from other countries or may not have renewed their certifications.
The demand for A&P mechanics is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians, including A&P mechanics, will grow by 5% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing number of aircraft in service and the need for maintenance and repair.
However, the aviation industry is also facing a shortage of skilled workers, including A&P mechanics. This shortage is due to several factors, including an aging workforce, a lack of interest in the field among younger generations, and the high cost of training and certification. To address this shortage, some organizations are offering scholarships and training programs to encourage more people to pursue careers in aviation maintenance.
In conclusion, there are approximately 170,000 certified A&P mechanics in the United States, and the demand for skilled mechanics is expected to continue to grow. However, the industry is also facing a shortage of workers, which highlights the need for more training and education programs to attract new talent to the field.
Overall, the aviation industry relies heavily on the expertise of A&P mechanics to ensure the safety and reliability of aircraft. As such, it is crucial to address the shortage of skilled workers and encourage more people to pursue careers in aviation maintenance.
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