In the high stakes world of aviation, accuracy and precision are essential. At the heart are aircraft engineers, professionals whose expertise ensure the aircrafts we board every day are safe, functional, and flight-ready. But while the role is as critical as the pilots who fly the planes, the path to becoming an aircraft engineer is often less understood. In an industry expected to need thousands of new maintenance professionals in the coming decades, the time has never been better to consider this dynamic, challenging, and globally respected career.

Why Aircraft Engineering Matters Now More Than Ever

Global aviation is changing; fast. With sustainability goals approaching and fleets modernizing, the role of the aircraft engineer is evolving more quickly beyond traditional mechanical know-how.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global air travel is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades. Emerging markets with younger populations, such as South Asia and Africa are projected to have the highest growth. The Asian – Pacific market is forecast to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% through til 2043, whilst Africa’s projected CAGR is 4.2%. Meanwhile, Boeing’s Pilot and Technician Outlook forecasts a need for 690,000 new maintenance technicians worldwide by 2042, largely driven by commercial fleets expanding to keep up with increased demand and older workers retiring.

“It’s clear that there is an increasing demand for aircraft engineers,” says Jekaterina Shalopanova, CBO at AERVIVA, an aviation recruitment and consultancy company. “These numbers aren’t projections from recruitment firms, they come directly from major aircraft manufacturers. Here at AERVIVA, we’ve seen first hand how engineers with the ability to combine both their technical acumen with global awareness have become invaluable assets to airlines around the world.”

Why We Can’t Afford A Shortage of Aircraft Engineers

There is a growing demand for aircraft engineers, yet there is a risk of a worldwide shortage due to the rapid growth of the industry. Aircraft engineers are the ones who keep the aircraft and its onboard individuals safe during all flights, with their routine checks and fixes. They are also the ones who are responsible for meeting strict international standards, including any standards that are related to environmental compliance. The aviation industry is a type of environment where reliability is everything, and this role is an integral part of keeping the industry as a whole moving forward.

If the aviation industry has a shortage of qualified aircraft engineers, there can be massive repercussions, such as flight delays and cancellations, slower progress towards sustainability, increased safety risks, slower airline growth, and so many more. It is becoming increasingly important for airlines to find individuals who can fulfill this role to ensure operational continuity, protect brand reputation, ensure regulatory compliance, and uphold all safety regulations, to name a few.

What Does an Aircraft Engineer Actually Do?

The role of an aircraft engineer varies depending on specialization and certification. But broadly speaking, it involves a range of different tasks. From conducting inspections and preventative maintenance, to troubleshooting and resolving complex mechanical and electronic issues, to certifying aircrafts as airworthy after maintenance has been completed. The role is multifaceted, engineers are expected to collaborate with pilots, manufacturers, and airline maintenance teams, all whilst remaining compliant with rapidly evolving and ever changing international regulations. These responsibilities demand not only technical skill, but also a strong sense of accountability. Aircraft engineers are, in many ways, the final line of defense between the aircraft and the sky.

Skills That Define Aircraft Engineers

Becoming an aircraft engineer is challenging and rewards those who enjoy problem solving and although becoming qualified demands strong work ethic and commitment, it is not beyond reach. Academic backgrounds in aerospace engineering or avionics help, however, success in the role often comes down to a specific blend of soft and hard skills.

Effective aircraft engineers have a broad and deep understanding of aircraft systems. They have the ability to recognize and connect how small irregularities might signal larger operational problems. However, technical knowledge alone isn’t enough. In a field where teams span continents and time zones, clear communication is essential. Engineers could find themselves stationed in a hangar in the Middle East or perhaps North America, and they must, therefore, have the ability to collaborate efficiently across departments and cultures, often while under tight deadlines. In high stake situations, it is essential that engineers can problem solve under pressure. This quality separates the good from the great: an ability to stay calm, focused, and meticulous, no matter the urgency or the hour.

Licensing and Certification

Aircraft engineers undergo thorough and rigorous training and assessment. There are a range of bodies through which to become licensed and these form the foundation of global safety standards. Engineers are encouraged to aim for dual certification, enabling them to maximize their employability across continents.

United States

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues two main certificates: Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) and most engineers obtain both. Requirements include 18 to 30 months of practical experience or completion of an FAA-certified program.

Europe

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) offers the choice for engineers to become licensed under B1 mechanical or B2 avionics. It typically requires formal training from an EASA approved institution and a structured period of practical experience.

Middle East and Asia-Pacific

Licensing standards vary, but most nations align closely with FAA or EASA regulations. In some cases, additional national exams may be required.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow’s aircrafts will be smarter, greener, and more autonomous and engineers will need to be able to work with emerging technology. “In coming years, a technician might be expected to service both a conventional engine and a hydrogen-powered propulsion system,” notes Jekaterina Shalopanova, CBO at AERVIVA, a professional aviation recruitment company located in the UAE. “The market is clearly shifting, and we’re drawing attention to the value of upskilling for those aiming to stay ahead.”

In fact, this is a reality that is being explored today. In 2020 Airbus launched its ZEROe project. It’s goal? To bring a hydrogen powered aircraft to the commercial market, in an effort to decarbonise air travel. Should this be successful, we can expect the aviation landscape to change dramatically in the coming years. These shifts will demand new ways of thinking as well as new certifications.

Staying Ahead

It is important to maintain a competitive edge, once certified, stay certified and upskill where possible. Aircraft engineers are in demand everywhere, being open to relocating, even temporarily, can rapidly improve employability and career trajectory. Be receptive and open to learning the business side of the industry, many engineers move into management roles later in their careers. This is an industry defined by precision, speed, and constant evolution, staying ahead means committing to lifelong learning and adaptability. For those who are ready to rise to the challenge, the sky is not the limit.