How to become A Helicopter Mechanic

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, it’s a helicopter, and it’s flying flawlessly, thanks to a skilled Helicopter Mechanic. Helicopter Mechanics work tirelessly to ensure that pilots can fly helicopters safely and efficiently. They are responsible for fixing and maintaining these wonders of technology while keeping up to date with safety regulations and new technologies.

• Field Helicopter Mechanic
• Aircraft Mechanic

What do Helicopter Mechanics do?

A Helicopter Mechanic would typically need to:

• Conduct scheduled and unscheduled inspections and maintenance on all helicopters in a hangar and take necessary action promptly to ensure the safe and efficient working of the aircraft
• Comply with regulations mandated by relevant aviation authorities and the company’s technical data requirements while conducting inspection, maintenance and repairs
• Inspect all parts of the helicopter to see if they are in working order; identify faulty ones that need replacing or repairing
• Troubleshoot mechanical, technological or electrical errors using diagnostic procedures to pinpoint the reasons; anticipate and prevent potential issues
• Inspect the helicopter’s main body, wings and tail for corrosion and distortion and detect invisible cracks using x-rays or magnetic or ultrasonic inspection equipment
• Use appropriate and precise instruments, tools, software, and diagnostic procedures to measure performance, identify defects and make timely repairs, minimising errors and ensuring the safety of the crew, passengers and craft
• Interpret flight data and data from testing equipment, such as gauges, to diagnose performance issues, system errors and malfunctioning parts
• Read maintenance manuals and understand wiring diagrams to identify repair procedures
• Clean and inspect helicopters between flights; replace transmission fluids, change oil and air filters, and clean the engine to make sure the aircraft is ready to fly again
• Repair or replace defective parts, including rotor blades, wings, brakes, electrical systems, tails, and other engine and aircraft components, with the help of hand or power tools
• Repair the airframe and aircraft skin, which are made up of various materials, including metal, fabric, wood, and composite materials 
• Assemble electrical controls and junction boxes; install software and instrument panels; test electronic instrumentation using circuit testers, oscilloscopes, and voltmeters; repair or replace defective avionic system components
• Collaborate with other professionals, such as licensed electricians, when dealing with issues outside their expertise
• Suggest if and when necessary to replace spare parts, such as rotor blades, tails, and engine components, or modify maintenance procedures and techniques
• Recommend if certain helicopters should be retired based on previous maintenance, repairs and flight times
• Communicate with pilots and crew during flights to troubleshoot and promptly resolve helicopter performance issues
• Conduct training sessions for the crew to perform minor maintenance themselves, especially if they are army personnel dealing with military helicopters in combat situations
• Inspect and test equipment on work completion; ensure that the helicopter meets performance standards of efficiency and is safe to fly
• Maintain detailed aircraft log books, reports of repairs, records of all tasks completed, and historical data
• Order and test replacement parts to spot defects and organise returns; buy and stock oil, lubricants, transmission fluid, and other operational supplies
• Carry out any other assigned heliport duties, including housekeeping of the shop and other work areas 
• Prepare helicopters for morning activities and closing time

Helicopter Mechanics often work in hangars, repair stations, military installations, or on airfields and runways. Oil and gas corporations may also employ and post them on offshore oil rigs or other remote locations as needed. Shops and hangars may be temperature-controlled, but airfields expose you to extreme weather conditions. Most Helicopter Mechanics work near major airports.

High noise levels can be distracting or uncomfortable, and lighting conditions may be too bright or dim, depending on the work. Helicopter Mechanics must follow safety regulations and wear protective equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection, hard hats, or life jackets.

Helicopter Mechanics usually work full time on rotating 8-hour shifts, 40 hours a week. They typically have a set work schedule, but overtime and weekend work are common, especially when meeting strict deadlines.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. You would typically work on commercial, private or military aircraft. Helicopter Mechanics can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Helicopter Mechanics are generally employed by:

• The Armed Forces
• Oil & Gas Corporations
• Private Organisations
• Government Agencies
• The Travel & Tourism Sector

Professional associations and organisations, such as the Helicopter Association International (HAI), are crucial for Helicopter Mechanics interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• The risk of bodily injury due to lifting heavy objects, handling dangerous chemicals and operating heavy tools
• The risk of accidents due to dangerous working locations, such as scaffolds or high ladders
• Hearing loss due to loud noises and high vibrations when engines are being tested
• The need to wear ear protection and other protective gear to ensure safety, and brightly coloured vests to ensure visibility 
• The stress caused by the need to stick to strict deadlines so as not to alter flight schedules while still maintaining safety standards
• The lack of personal time due to overtime and weekend work
• The need to continuously keep up with the latest technology advancements 
• The need to maintain strict confidentiality if working with the military

Any academic or certification program that a potential Helicopter Mechanic takes up typically requires a period of supervised experience, such as an internship.

Aspiring Helicopter Mechanics typically shadow and work under experienced mechanics when pursuing certification. You may get to hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they manage to turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

A Helicopter Mechanic often needs experience in other roles as a mechanic before specialising in helicopters. Having worked as an aircraft mechanic or helicopter crew chief helps you make your way into the field of helicopter maintenance and repairs.

Studying the dynamics of helicopters, understanding their parts, technology, and advancements, and interviewing or job shadowing experts in helicopter inspection and maintenance will give you an advantage in the field and prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

A high school diploma or equivalent followed by rigorous training and certification is typically the minimum requirement for aspiring Helicopter Mechanics. 

However, some employers prefer candidates to have post-secondary education, such as a diploma or an associate or bachelor’s degree in aviation maintenance, mechanics, aviation tech, avionics, engineering, transportation, or a related field. As equipment, monitors, controls and systems are systematically becoming more digital and computerised, courses that focus on the advancements of technology in the field, computer repair and maintenance may increase your employability. 

You may also attend courses in aviation maintenance at certain technical schools accredited by national aviation authorities. The certificates you receive may also be recognised as alternatives to mandatory experience requirements. 

Avionics technicians, who maintain complex electronic controls, systems, and instruments aboard aircraft, are typically required to earn an associate degree, specialising in aviation flight instruments or computer repair.

Courses in mathematics, physics, chemical engineering, electronics, computer science, and mechanical drawing at school or college help you understand aeronautic operations, troubleshooting and carrying out aircraft repairs.

Certification is mandatory for Helicopter Mechanics and may allow them to work independently without expert supervision. Aviation authorities typically permit only certified candidates to demonstrate their competence in technical and mechanical skills before they can perform helicopter repairs and maintenance. 

When acquired from an objective and reputed organisation, certification can help you stand out in a competitive job market, carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent, increase your chances of advancement, and allow you to become an independent consultant. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

While specific requirements may vary according to local legislation, being certified as a Helicopter Mechanic often requires you to have prior certification as a mechanic. In addition, you must complete an appropriate training program specifically for helicopter maintenance and pass an oral, written, and practical exam to demonstrate the required skills. Other prerequisites for certification include being at least 18 years old and having some experience and the necessary language skills. Certain programs at approved aviation maintenance technician schools may substitute for experience. 

You may hold certification as an airframe mechanic who deals with aircraft bodywork, or you may be a powerplant mechanic certified to deal with engine work. However, employers may prefer candidates certified in both bodywork and engine work.

Appropriate radiotelephone operator certification is typically mandatory for avionics technicians who deal with communications equipment. They may receive certification from a repair station for a specific task or hold an airframe rating to work on electronic instrumentation aboard aircraft. 

Mechanics who wish to be able to review and approve major repairs and modifications must acquire the relevant inspection authorisation, provided they fulfil the established criteria.

You must keep your certification valid by fulfilling prescribed requirements, such as having undertaken helicopter repairs or maintenance within the specified and recent period or relevant classes at school, work or with aircraft manufacturers. 

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years.

As Helicopter Mechanics gain experience, they can progress into more advanced roles, such as Lead Mechanic, Lead Inspector or Shop Supervisor. Career advancement opportunities are more readily available for Helicopter Mechanics with sufficient experience in supervision, maintenance and repair. With specialised certification, such as an inspection authorisation, you may even become an examiner or inspector for your national aviation authorities.

Senior mechanics also tend to be in charge of training new employees and performing and overseeing complex repairs.

Specialising in certain functions, equipment or technology also provides Helicopter Mechanics with a valuable chance at career progression. Some military agencies use complex and advanced helicopters. Undergoing training to specialise in such aircraft may broaden your work field substantially. 

Candidates with the necessary experience and specialised certification and those who keep up with the latest helicopter technology trends have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Helicopter Mechanic build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

Helicopter Mechanics looking to move into more senior positions in the field should take courses to develop their writing, interpersonal and intrapersonal communication, and management skills.

Helicopter Mechanics may build a competitive edge in the job market by pursuing further studies or obtaining certifications to specialise in different flight instruments, helicopter types or new technology. By specialising in electronic flight instrumentation, you could become an avionics expert, a growing area of aircraft maintenance, given the increasing dependence on computerised technology and systems.

How is a Helicopter Different from an Aeroplane (or Balloon)?

A helicopter is heavier than air, unlike a balloon, and flies using an engine. However, it has wings that move, unlike an aeroplane. A helicopter’s rotating or spinning wings, called blades, allow it to fly and carry out other actions that an aeroplane cannot.

For instance, a helicopter does not taxi on a runway with great speed to take off, nor does it have to race through the air to have lift. Instead, it can move straight up or down and take off and land without a runway. A helicopter can also turn in the air, fly backwards or to the side, or even hover in a spot. Its features make it the ideal transport for emergency landings and takeoffs in places with no runway. A helicopter can pick up people with medical emergencies and land on top of a hospital even in just a small area. 

How Do Helicopters Work?

Objects must have “lift” or an upward force, typically generated by wings, to be able to fly. The flying mechanism is based on the Bernoulli Principle, according to which there is an inverse relationship between the speed and pressure of air. The higher the speed, the lower the pressure and vice versa. The airfoil shape of wings means that they are curved on top and flatter underneath, making air flow faster above than below, thereby lowering air pressure above the wing. The suction that is caused makes the wing rise. An aeroplane must fly so fast that the air which moves over its wings provides it the lift needed to fly. However, in the case of a helicopter, it is the rotor blades that act as wings and create lift by spinning. 

The Diverse Uses of Helicopters

Helicopters are most widely used in aerial work, such as dousing forest fires, monitoring electric lines, surveying, wildlife inventory, fungicide application to crops, and even herding livestock. Companies use helicopters to transport their personnel to work sites such as offshore drilling platforms. They are also used for sightseeing by tourists and gathering accurate and live footage by journalists. Helicopters are also useful in film production and monitoring traffic.

However, some of the most significant areas where the police, armed forces and coast guard operations use helicopters are search and rescue missions and security. Helicopters facilitate medical rescues via air ambulances and sea rescues for residents and tourists in any area. They help airdrop medication, food and other survival essentials in remote areas and those affected by various crises. The armed forces use them to transport troops, deliver materials, and scout locations. The police use them to reinforce their pursuits.

Parts & Systems Looked After by Helicopter Mechanics

Given the complexity of a helicopter, there are several parts and systems that Helicopter Mechanics inspect, maintain, repair or replace as per the need.

• The turbine, the fuel system and the electronics system that run the engine
• The rotor and the gyroscope mechanism that it is attached to and other rotor system components 
• The body of the helicopter or fuselage, which includes the glass, lights and other external features
• The illuminated marker lights and flashing warning lights, which make up the intricate lighting system
• The wiper motors and on-board communication systems
• The retractable landing gear, if used, and tires
• Hydraulic systems, from the rotor-tilting components to the rear tail rotor
• The radio and electronic systems, and the machine controls
• The weapons systems, targeting systems and radar aboard military aircraft

When is Maintenance Performed? 

Maintenance typically follows a schedule based on a single factor or a combination of several, such as the hours or trips flown and the time elapsed since the last inspection. Maintenance and inspection are typically done between flights to ensure crew and craft safety. Maintenance may also be done to tackle specific issues that mechanics and manufacturers may identify.

FAA Ratings & Classes

In the US, the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) uses the system of ratings to classify aircraft components. The ratings include airframe, powerplant, propeller, radio, instrument and accessory, with each rating subdivided into classes for specific component categories. 

Who Works on Helicopters? 

There are several professions that involve working with different types of aircraft, including helicopters. As a Helicopter Mechanic, you will most likely work closely with other professionals or upskill and get certified to become one of these professionals yourself.

Airframe & Powerplant  (A&P) Mechanics

A&P Mechanics can independently repair and maintain most parts of an aircraft, including the engines, landing gear, brakes, and air conditioning system. They are certified generalist mechanics who may require further training to carry out more specialised tasks. 

Avionics Technicians

Avionics technicians work on the electronic instrumentation of the aircraft, including radio communication devices, radar systems and navigation aids. More and more time is spent on updating, fixing and maintaining these computer systems as the use of digital flight technology rises. Avionic technicians may require specific certifications and licences to work.

Inspection Authorised (IA) Mechanics

IA mechanics generally have a broader skill set for technical work than other maintenance personnel. These professionals are often certified to work with both airframes and powerplants. They inspect helicopters and can return them to service after major repairs. They also typically carry out comprehensive annual inspections.

Designated Airworthiness Representatives (DARs) 

DARs have the job of inspecting and testing aircraft to determine their airworthiness and issuing appropriate certificates mandatory for any aircraft to fly. You may specialise as a manufacturing or maintenance DAR.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Helicopter Mechanics have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. They offer their services to private individuals and businesses without in-house mechanics. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Helicopter Mechanic has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

NASA researches how to make helicopters more efficient, safer, quieter, and faster and has even studied how drone helicopters, specially designed for space travel, could be flown to Mars. 

Helicopter Mechanics contribute to human and environmental welfare by facilitating the safe and efficient use of helicopters in diverse areas of life. They must be organised, vigilant and highly skilled to succeed in the critical work they do. They must know each helicopter inside and out to ensure the safety of the pilot, crew, passengers, and the craft itself. Identifying issues before they become problems is critical in this profession. Helicopter Mechanics don’t just repair today's helicopters but anticipate those of tomorrow by keeping up to date with the latest technological advancements.

Make sure to set up and follow a routine maintenance schedule to prevent the wear and tear of helicopters or identify and tackle them in time. Check spark plugs, hoses, and fittings to see if they work well or need to be replaced or repaired.