If you’ve ever dreamed of being that guy who gives aircraft the thumbs-up before they take to the skies, an A licence might just be your ticket to early certification, higher earnings, and a chance to flex your aviation knowledge. Here’s everything you need to know about the training and qualifications for an A licence under the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
What is an aircraft A licence?
An A licence bridges working as a mechanic and becoming a fully qualified B1 engineer. It allows you to begin signing off on your own work. This includes covering tasks such as wheel changes, life vest replacements, and straightforward defect rectifications.
This licence is particularly valuable in commercial aviation settings, such as with EasyJet, where quick turnarounds between flights are essential. During these brief intervals, aircraft typically require only minor maintenance, such as an oxygen top-up or a brake pack replacement, making the A licence a practical and efficient solution.
Advantages of an A Licence
An A licence is like a fast pass in the world of aircraft maintenance certification. Sure, it’s not the full B1, but it gets you certified sooner and gives you a head start. Here’s why it’s worth it:
- Certify sooner: Why wait for a full B1 licence when you can start certifying basic maintenance tasks earlier? It’s a step in the right direction.
- Boost your earnings: Certified engineers earn more. This means you can finally stop crying over the price of Freddos going up.
- Extra responsibility: With great power (and an A licence) comes great responsibility. You’ll sign off your own work and ensure safety, which is pretty cool—though perhaps slightly terrifying at first.
- No type courses required: Unlike B1 engineers who must complete type-specific training, you’ll save time and money without memorising every bolt of an A320 or 737.
How much experience do you need?
Experience is key to getting an A licence. You can’t just waltz in after fixing your toaster and expect to sign off on an aircraft, you need to record your hands on aircraft experience in a logbook called a Cap-741. How many years? Here’s the breakdown:
- 3 Years: If starting from scratch without technical training, you’ll need three years of practical maintenance experience on live aircraft.
- 2 Years: Have a technical background as a skilled worker? Great, you can trim it to two years.
- 1 Year: Attended a CAA-approved part 147 basic training course? You’re down to just one year.
The part 66 modules: What you need to pass (and what to expect)
The road to certification is paved with exams. Some are fascinating, others... well, let’s just say they test your patience as much as your knowledge.
You may notice that these modules look familiar and identical to the requirements for a B1 and you wouldn't be wrong there. The layout and subject matter is in line with the higher level B1 modules however, each one is to a lower difficulty and with less content.
Module 1: Mathematics (16 questions)
Ah, maths. This is the one module where everyone suddenly remembers why they hate fractions. The good news? It’s only sixteen questions. The bad news? You’ll still need to remember those algebraic equations you swore you’d never use.
Module 2: Physics (32 questions)
If you’ve ever wondered why planes don’t fall out of the sky, module 2 has your answers. Spoiler: it’s all about forces, motion, and making gravity your frenemy.
Module 3: Electrical Fundamentals (20 questions)
Warning: this module is tough. By the end, you might think your brain’s been rewired—literally. But mastering electricity is vital for understanding aircraft systems, so hang in there.
Module 5: Digital Techniques/Electronic Instrument Systems (16 questions)
A concise and engaging look at the technology that keeps aeroplanes in the sky. Discover how onboard computers operate and communicate with each other. These computers rely on a Local Area Network (LAN) to exchange information—think of it as a high-tech version of those LAN parties we used to host for Counter-Strike battles.
Module 6: Materials & Hardware (52 questions)
Ever wondered why a plane isn’t made of wood? This module explains that and more. It’s packed with practical information, even if it’s not the most thrilling read.
Module 7: Maintenance Practices (72 questions, 2 essays)
This is where the rubber meets the runway. From tools to techniques, this module is long but vital. Brace yourself for essays—it’s not all multiple-choice.
Module 8: Basic Aerodynamics (20 questions)
Finally, an answer to, “Why don’t planes just fall out of the sky?” This module is short, insightful, and might even make you sound smart at parties.
Module 9: Human Factors (20 questions, 1 essay)
This one’s surprisingly entertaining. Did you know that pilots and engineers can fly and fix planes as long as they’re under the drink-drive limit? Cheers to that!
Module 10: Aviation Legislation (32 questions, 1 essay)
Prepare for a snooze fest. This module is vital but insanely boring—like reading the terms and conditions on a plane ticket. Stay awake, though—it’s critical to staying on the right side of the law.
Module 11: Aeroplane Aerodynamics, Structures, and Systems (108 questions)
This one’s a beast but a fascinating one. It’s like a grand tour of all the systems that make an aircraft work. By the end, you’ll have a newfound respect for the engineers who designed these flying marvels.
Module 15: Gas Turbines (60 questions)
This might just be the most exciting module yet! Who wouldn’t love diving into the fascinating world of jet engines? It’s a crowd favourite and a highlight for many students. And yes, the process involves the iconic suck-squeeze-bang-blow cycle—prepare to be amazed.
Module 16: Piston Engines (52 questions)
Old but gold. If you like the sound of engines roaring (and who doesn’t?), this module will make you feel right at home. And we all know nothing beats the sound of a roaring V12 on startup.
Module 17: Propellers (20 questions)
Short, sweet, and all about the spinning bits that keep propeller planes airborne.
Do you have what it takes to become an A licence engineer?
Becoming an A-licence aircraft maintenance engineer isn’t easy—it’s a journey filled with exams, essays, and occasional hair-pulling moments. But the rewards are worth it. From certifying tasks to earning more and taking on greater responsibilities, an A licence is a fantastic stepping stone in aviation.
And hey, if you can survive module 10 without nodding off, you’re already halfway there.
