Arizona Aviation Mechanic Schools

Arizona has emerged as one of the premier destinations for aviation mechanic training in the United States, offering year-round flying weather, proximity to major aviation hubs, and a thriving aerospace industry. The state’s aviation maintenance schools provide comprehensive pathways from short-term certification programs to four-year degrees, preparing students for high-demand careers with starting salaries ranging from $75,000 to $80,000 annually.

Below are the top 7 schools in the state.

AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs

Phoenix | $55,000 | 21 Months

Opened in January 2024, AIM’s Phoenix campus is a modern 80,000-square-foot facility dedicated to preparing the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals. The campus features two expansive hangars with seven aircraft—including a Learjet 25, Cessna 195, and R44 Astro Helicopter—plus a composite lab and fully equipped tool room to support immersive, hands-on training. Students can enroll in the FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician Certificate program, gaining practical skills through real-world scenarios and instruction from experienced aviation professionals. With strong ties to local aviation companies and ongoing community engagement, AIM Phoenix offers a direct pathway to industry employment in a growing aviation hub.

America’s Best AMT Courses Maintenance Programs

Goodyear | $2,000 to $4,200 | 4 Days to 12 Days

America’s Best AMT Courses offers a range of FAA-recognized aviation maintenance programs in Goodyear, Arizona, designed for professionals at different stages of their careers. The programs range from 4 to 12 days and include specialized prep courses for A&P certifications, single certification needs, and practical/oral exams. With modern facilities and a team of experienced instructors, the school supports students through flexible start dates, comprehensive training, and personalized guidance for exam success...read more.

Chandler Gilbert Aviation Maintenance Programs

Mesa | $3,100 to $12,000 | 12 Months to 30 Months

Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s aviation maintenance programs provide training for careers in aviation maintenance, covering airframe, powerplant, and comprehensive aircraft systems. These programs include both degree and certificate options, with full FAA Part 147 approval and a focus on hands-on skills for industry certification readiness. With a location at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and strong ties to leading aerospace companies, students benefit from direct industry connections, up-to-date training, and excellent job prospects upon graduation...read more.

Embry Riddle Aviation Maintenance Programs

Prescott | $10,000 to $70,000 | 6 Months to 48 Months

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Prescott, Arizona campus is a mile-high facility respected worldwide for cutting-edge instruction and training for tomorrow's aviation, aerospace, security and intelligence leaders. For aviation maintenance students, the Prescott campus offers two programs: the Associate in Science in Aviation Maintenance and the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance. Both programs prepare graduates for careers with top employers including Boeing, NASA, Southwest Airlines, and the U.S. Military, meeting the growing industry demand for skilled aviation maintenance professionals.

Pima Community College Aviation Maintenance Programs

Tucson | $4,000 to $14,000 | 4 Months to 17 Months

Pima Community College’s aviation mechanic programs deliver hands-on training for careers in aircraft maintenance, offering a range of certificate and degree options. Programs include airframe, powerplant, structural repair, avionics, and nondestructive testing, with durations from 4 to 17 months. FAA-approved courses and direct partnerships with major employers ensure high job placement rates and strong workforce readiness...read more.

Universal Technical Institute Aviation Mechanic Programs

Avondale | $50,000 | 18 Months to 24 Months

UTI’s Avondale campus offers an 18–24 month FAA-approved Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Technician program designed to prepare students for certification and careers in aviation maintenance. The curriculum includes 1,950 hours of hands-on training and classroom instruction covering aircraft structures, engines, electrical systems, and avionics. Students gain real-world experience using industry-standard tools and equipment while learning from experienced instructors. Graduates are eligible to take the FAA exams for Airframe and Powerplant certification and receive job placement support through UTI’s career services.

West-Mec Aviation Maintenance Programs

Glendale, Phoenix | $17,000 to $27,000 | 16 Months to 27 Months

West-MEC's Aviation Maintenance Technology programs offer FAA-approved training paths ranging from 16 to 27 months, with three specialized tracks: the comprehensive Airframe & Powerplant program (1,926 hours), the Airframe-only program (1,161 hours), and the Powerplant-only program (1,161 hours). The curriculum covers essential aviation maintenance skills including electrical systems, aircraft structures, engine operations, and regulatory compliance, taught by experienced FAA-certified instructors using advanced lab equipment and real aircraft components. Graduates are prepared to take FAA certification exams and pursue careers as Aviation Maintenance Technicians with commercial airlines, general aviation companies, or aircraft manufacturers...read more.

How to Choose the Best School for You

Arizona’s diverse aviation maintenance education landscape ensures options for every career goal and financial situation. Students seeking rapid certification should consider America’s Best AMT Courses or specialized certificates at community colleges.

Those wanting comprehensive training with strong job placement should explore Chandler-Gilbert or Pima Community College. For students aiming for management roles, Embry-Riddle’s bachelor’s programs provide the best pathway to leadership positions.

Certificate Programs

Short-Term Specialized Certificates (4-12 months)

For professionals seeking rapid entry into specific aviation maintenance niches, Arizona offers several accelerated certificate options:

  • America’s Best AMT Courses leads with ultra-intensive programs ranging from 4 days to 12 days, focusing exclusively on FAA exam preparation with costs between $1,395-$4,215
  • Pima Community College provides specialized certificates including Aircraft Structural Repair (4 months, $3,993), Avionics Technician (4 months, $5,675), and Nondestructive Testing (8.5 months, $6,716)
  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a Certificate in Aviation Maintenance Technology Part 65 (6 months, $10,440 for civilians)

Standard A&P Certificate Programs (9-21 months)

Associate Degrees (2 years)

  • 20-30 months

Arizona’s community colleges excel in providing comprehensive associate degree programs that combine technical training with general education:

Bachelor’s Degree (4 Years)

  • 48-51 months

For students seeking management and leadership roles, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University stands as Arizona’s premier option:

  • Aviation Maintenance BS (Online) – 48 months, $69,350 for civilians, with specializations in Engineering, Management, and Safety
  • Aviation Maintenance Science BS (Daytona Beach Campus) – 48-51 months, combining A&P certification with advanced studies and four concentration areas

Most Affordable Options

Budget-Friendly Choices:

Average Costs by Program Type

Certificate Programs: $3,000-$27,000

  • Short-term prep courses: $1,395-$4,215
  • Specialized certificates: $3,000-$10,000
  • Full A&P certificates: $16,000-$27,000

Associate Degrees: $8,500-$35,000

  • Community college programs: $8,500-$13,200
  • Private institution programs: $34,750+

Bachelor’s Degrees: $36,700-$69,350

  • Military students receive significant discounts (approximately 50% reduction)

Fastest Pathways to Certification

Ultra-Rapid Options (4 days – 6 months):

Standard Program Lengths

Average Duration by Credential Type:

  • Prep Courses: 4 days – 3 months
  • Specialized Certificates: 4-10 months
  • A&P Certificates: 16-27 months
  • Associate Degrees: 17-30 months
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: 48-51 months

The most common pathway for comprehensive A&P certification ranges from 18-24 months, with schools like UTI, AIM, and West-MEC offering programs in this timeframe.

Major Employer Connections

Arizona’s aviation schools maintain strong relationships with key industry players:

Chandler-Gilbert Community College partners with aerospace giants including Gulfstream and Boeing, hosting the annual Greater Southwest Aviation Maintenance Technician Symposium and participating in the Arizona Future48 Workforce Accelerator program.

Pima Community College has established partnerships with major local employers including Bombardier, Ascent Aviation Services, Aerovation, and Mitsubishi, resulting in approximately 85% of graduates remaining in the local workforce.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University maintains relationships with industry leaders including Boeing, NASA, Southwest Airlines, and Lockheed Martin, contributing to exceptional placement rates across all programs.

The state’s combination of affordable education, industry partnerships, optimal training conditions, and proximity to major aerospace employers makes Arizona one of the best destinations for aviation maintenance education in the nation. With nearly 100% job placement rates and strong starting salaries, graduates from Arizona’s aviation schools are well-positioned for successful careers in the rapidly growing aviation industry.

Steps to Becoming an Aviation Mechanic in Arizona

Begin by selecting pathway that fits your goals—from four-day FAA prep courses to two- to five-year certificate, associate, or bachelor’s programs from any of the schools below. Next, verify you have a high school diploma or GED, secure financial aid, and apply several months before classes start. Then complete training—maintaining at least a 70% grade and full attendance—and pass the FAA’s written and oral/practical exams to earn your A&P certification. We break it all down in further details below.

Step 1: Choose Your Training Path and Location

Assess Your Career Goals and Timeline

For Rapid Entry (4 days – 6 months):

  • America’s Best AMT Courses (Goodyear) – Intensive FAA exam prep in 4-12 days ($1,395-$4,215)
  • Specialized certificates at Pima Community College – 4-8.5 months for avionics or structural repair

For Comprehensive Training (12-30 months):

  • Chandler-Gilbert Community College – Most affordable AAS degree (30 months, $8,536-$11,155)
  • Pima Community College – Hands-on training with commercial aircraft (17 months, $13,179)
  • West-MEC – Evening classes for working adults (18-27 months, $16,350-$26,950)

For Advanced Career Preparation (48+ months):

  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Bachelor’s degrees with management focus ($36,710-$69,350)

Find Your Nearest School

Match your location to the closest training facility:

Step 2: Meet Prerequisites and Secure Financing

Educational Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED (required for all programs)
  • Basic math and reading skills – some schools offer placement testing
  • Physical requirements – ability to lift 50+ pounds and work in various positions

Financial Planning Options

Most Affordable Route: Chandler-Gilbert Community College at $97 per credit hour Federal Financial Aid: Available at community colleges and Embry-Riddle Military Benefits: GI Bill® accepted at West-MEC, UTI, and other institutions Military Discounts: Up to 50% reduction at Embry-Riddle for active military/veterans

Application Process

  • Submit applications 3-6 months before desired start date
  • Complete FAFSA for financial aid eligibility
  • Some programs have limited enrollment (25 students per semester at certain schools)
  • Attend information sessions or campus tours when available

Step 3: Complete Your Training Program

Core Curriculum Areas

All FAA Part 147 programs cover:

  • General Knowledge: Mathematics, physics, electricity, regulations, human factors
  • Airframe Systems: Metallic and composite structures, hydraulics, electrical systems, environmental controls
  • Powerplant Systems: Reciprocating and turbine engines, fuel systems, propellers, ignition systems

Hands-On Training Highlights

Real Aircraft Experience:

  • Pima Community College – Work on commercial transport aircraft (unique feature)
  • Chandler-Gilbert – Access to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport operations
  • West-MEC – Advanced labs with industry-standard equipment

Academic Requirements

  • Minimum 70% grade required in all courses
  • Attendance requirements – cannot miss more than 10% of classes
  • FAA knowledge tests – General, Airframe, and Powerplant written exams
  • Practical skills demonstrations throughout the program

Step 4: Obtain FAA Certification

Written Examinations

  • General exam – Covers regulations, mathematics, physics, and basic maintenance practices
  • Airframe exam – Focuses on aircraft structures and systems
  • Powerplant exam – Concentrates on engine systems and components
  • Cost: Approximately $175 per exam

Oral and Practical Testing

  • Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) testing – Costs approximately $700 per certificate
  • America’s Best AMT Courses offers on-site FAA testing for convenience
  • Hands-on demonstrations of maintenance skills and procedures
  • Oral questioning on regulations, safety, and technical knowledge

Certificate Options

  • Airframe (A) Certificate – Qualify to work on aircraft structures and systems
  • Powerplant (P) Certificate – Authorize engine maintenance and repair
  • A&P Combined Certificate – Full certification for maximum career opportunities

Step 5: Launch Your Aviation Career in Arizona

Job Search and Placement

School Career Services:

  • Embry-Riddle – 92-100% placement rates with dedicated career support
  • Pima Community College – 85% of graduates remain in local workforce
  • Industry partnerships provide direct pathways to employment

Major Arizona Employers

  • Commercial Aviation: Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines
  • Aerospace Manufacturing: Boeing, Gulfstream, Bombardier
  • Military Facilities: Luke Air Force Base, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base
  • MRO Facilities: Ascent Aviation Services, Aerovation, Mitsubishi