The Aviation Institute of Maintenance: A Leader in Aviation Maintenance Education

Established in 1965, the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) has been a trailblazer in aviation maintenance technician training for over five decades. Headquartered in Lancaster, Texas, AIM’s extensive network of 14 residential campuses stretches across the United States. These campuses are not just classrooms – they are cutting-edge learning hubs equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

At AIM, you won’t just learn the theory; you’ll experience aviation firsthand. Through hands-on training, you’ll gain the practical skills and knowledge crucial for a successful career in aviation maintenance. Whether you dream of working on commercial jets, private aircraft, or helicopters, AIM provides the foundation and the wings to help you take flight in your chosen field.

Programs:

AIM offers FAA-approved Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification programs that take around 12-15 months to complete on average. Coursework covers topics such as aviation math, physics, maintenance regulations, and aircraft systems and components. Students learn through classroom instruction combined with practical training on live aircraft.

AIM also provides shorter-term certificate programs in areas like advanced avionics, non-destructive testing, and welding. Continuing education is available for current technicians needing supplementals.

Accreditation:

AIM is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Its programs adhere to FAA regulations enabling graduates to test for the FAA A&P license – a must-have for many aviation maintenance roles.

Career Support:

AIM’s Career Services team helps connect students with job opportunities and internships. Over 11,000 active industry partners employ AIM graduates. Popular placement areas include major airlines, MROs, manufacturers, and the military.

Financial Aid:

AIM assists students in applying for federal financial aid programs like Pell Grants and student loans. Some private loans and scholarships are also available.

Facilities & Technology:

Students learn on actual aircraft including Cessna, Beechcraft, and Boeing along with engines from GE and Pratt & Whitney. Updated labs feature the latest diagnostic tools and simulators.

With 50+ years of success preparing aircraft technicians, AIM remains the gold standard in aviation maintenance education. Grads emerge job-ready to launch careers in this high-demand field.

What are some of the major airlines that employ AIM graduates?

Here are some of the major airlines that frequently hire graduates from the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM):

American Airlines – One of the biggest employers of AIM grads. America operates over 900 aircraft and needs a large technician workforce.

Delta Air Lines – Another top US airline that hires licensed A&P mechanics from AIM on a continuous basis.
United Airlines – With over 700 planes, United looks to AIM graduates to fill openings across its maintenance system.
Southwest Airlines – As the largest domestic carrier, Southwest relies on the reliable talent pipeline from AIM to service its 750+ aircraft fleet.

Alaska Airlines – AIM graduates are prime candidates for the regional and maintenance jobs this top regional airline offers.
JetBlue Airways – The value carrier welcomes licensed mechanics from AIM to work on its 190+ Airbus and Embraer fleet.
FedEx Express – The cargo giant offers global career paths to AIM alumni to maintain its fleet of over 600 aircraft.

Atlas Air – This large aircraft leasing and charter company staffs mechanics worldwide and taps AIM for US hubs.
Hawaiian Airlines – Graduates find positions with this Hawaii-based carrier thanks to AIM’s reputation.

So in summary, top-tier US passenger and cargo air transportation companies view AIM as a primary aviation maintenance talent source.

What are the requirements to become a licensed A&P mechanic from AIM?

Here are the main requirements to become a licensed Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic after graduating from the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM):

Complete one of AIM’s FAA-approved A&P certification programs which take 12-15 months on average. This involves classroom and hands-on training.
Pass AIM’s in-house tests and examinations with minimum scores to complete the coursework. Continual evaluations ensure students are mastering topics.

Accumulate at least 1,900 hours of supervised maintenance experience including engine work, airframe repairs, etc. AIM’s training helps gain much of this.
Hold at least a high school diploma or GED. Some programs require some college credit in math, physics, etc.
Remain in compliance with FAA regulations regarding conduct, drug testing, and currency throughout training.

Upon graduation, apply for and pass the FAA-administered general and airframe written exams with a minimum score of 70%.
Pass the oral and practical exams conducted by FAA inspectors demonstrating competence in A&P skills.
Receive the Airframe and Powerplant certificates from the FAA formally licensing graduates to maintain and overhaul aircraft.