Georgia Aviation Mechanic Schools

Georgia offers nine leading aviation mechanic schools that prepare students for FAA airframe and powerplant certification. These programs combine classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and real-aircraft experience to build the skills employers demand. Program lengths range from a short, intensive 10-day course to multi-year associate degrees, and each campus partners with industry to support job placement.

Below is an overview of the nine top aviation mechanic programs across the state.

AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs

Atlanta | $55,000 | 21 Months

Located in Duluth, Georgia, the AIM Atlanta Metro campus offers a dynamic 112,000-square-foot facility equipped with 30 classrooms, hands-on training labs, and a full aircraft hangar featuring turbine engine trainers, simulators, and a KingAir 65. Students can choose from several programs, including the Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) certificate, Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer certificate, Associate of Occupational Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology, and Professional Aviation Maintenance Certification. The campus provides an immersive, FAA Part 147-certified learning experience with flexible schedules, experienced instructors, and direct access to industry-standard aircraft systems and tools. Situated near Delta Air Lines’ headquarters, the campus regularly hosts major employers like Boeing and Lockheed Martin, connecting students to strong career pathways in aviation maintenance.

Augusta Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs

Thomson | $6,000 to $11,000 | 18 Months to 36 Months

Augusta Technical College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program trains students in airframe and powerplant systems through classroom instruction and hands-on labs at the Thomson campus. Since 1961, the college has focused on workforce skills with small class sizes and strong industry partnerships. Students learn to inspect, troubleshoot, service, and repair certificated aircraft and engines and earn qualifications for FAA certification. The program’s close ties with regional employers support high job placement rates...read more.

CGTC Aviation Mechanic Programs

Warner Robbins | $6,000 - $11,000 | 12 to 24 months

Central Georgia Technical College offers FAA-approved aviation maintenance programs with associate degree, diploma, and certificate options designed to prepare students for airframe and powerplant certification. Students gain hands-on experience with aircraft systems and benefit from a partnership with Delta TechOps that provides industry exposure and career opportunities. Training is delivered at state-of-the-art facilities in Macon, Georgia, led by experienced faculty...read more.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College Aviation Mechanic Programs

Rome | $6,000 to $11,000 | 14 Months to 24 Months

Georgia Northwestern Technical College serves nine northwest Georgia counties with six campuses and offers Aviation Maintenance Technology programs that run 14–24 months. Students train at the Richard B. Russell Regional Airport facility, one of only four FAA-approved programs in the state. The curriculum combines general education with hands-on airframe and powerplant instruction. Graduates leave ready to sit for FAA certification exams and fill critical mechanic roles...read more.

Global School of Aeronautics Aviation Mechanic Program

Gainesville | $3,400 | 10 Days

The FAA A&P program at the Global School of Aeronautics is a 10-day certification course designed for individuals with prior aviation maintenance experience. Students receive hands-on training with aircraft engines and systems, preparing for all FAA written, oral, and practical exams. Offered in both in-person and virtual formats, the program boasts a 97% first-time pass rate and strong job placement outcomes...read more.

Middle Georgia State Aviation Mechanic Programs

Eastman | $8,000 to $20,000 | 2 to 4 years

Middle Georgia State University’s School of Aviation offers FAA-approved aviation mechanic programs that prepare students for careers in aircraft maintenance and structural technology. Students can choose from associate degrees or certificate programs, gaining hands-on training in engine systems, avionics, and structural repair. Programs are designed for both entry-level students and experienced mechanics seeking advanced credentials. With strong industry ties, including a partnership with Delta TechOps, graduates are well-positioned for employment in the aviation sector...read more.

Savannah Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs

Savannah | $5,000 to $11,000 | 12 Months to 24 Months

Savannah Technical College offers flexible aviation maintenance and avionics programs that prepare students for FAA certification and skilled technical careers. The diploma and certificate tracks focus on practical training in aircraft systems, while omitting broader general education requirements for faster completion. Students can choose from full programs in airframe and powerplant or targeted certificates like Avionics Installer and Technician, some of which can be completed in under a year. All programs are FAA Part 147 certified and supported by experienced faculty and dedicated aviation facilities...read more.

South Georgia Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs

Americus | $1,200 to $9,700 | 12 Months to 24 Months

South Georgia Technical College offers one of the longest-running aviation maintenance programs in North America, with a history dating back to 1948. Students can choose from multiple pathways, including Aviation Maintenance Technology, Avionics, and Aircraft Structural Technology, each designed to prepare graduates for FAA certifications and high-demand careers. SGTC boasts hands-on training, 100% job placement, and a strong alumni network in companies like Delta, Lockheed Martin, and Gulfstream...read more.

US Aviation Academy Aviation Mechanic Program

Atlanta | $36,000 | 16 Months

Located in Forest Park just minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the US Aviation Academy’s Atlanta campus offers an accelerated, FAA Part 147-approved A&P Mechanic training program designed to fast-track students into aviation maintenance careers. With both 8-month full-time and 16-month part-time evening course options, students receive immersive, hands-on training on real aircraft and engines while learning from experienced, credentialed instructors. The $36,000 tuition includes all necessary tools, digital textbooks, and FAA exam fees—eliminating costly add-ons that are common elsewhere. The campus maintains strong hiring connections with Delta Air Lines and other major carriers, making it a direct pathway to a high-demand, well-paying aviation maintenance career.

How to Choose the Best Program for You

Associate Degree Programs

Associate degree programs provide the most comprehensive education, combining general education courses with extensive technical training. These programs typically require 86-99 credit hours and take 21-36 months to complete.

Schools Offering Associate Degrees:

Associate degree graduates are prepared for FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification and often have better advancement opportunities due to their broader educational foundation.

Diploma Programs

Diploma programs offer focused technical training with minimal general education requirements, making them ideal for students seeking faster entry into the workforce.

Schools Offering Diplomas:

  • Georgia Northwestern Technical College – 89 credit hours, $9,523 tuition (24 months)
  • Augusta Technical College – 89 credit hours, $9,523 tuition (18 months)
  • Central Georgia Technical College – 89 credit hours, $9,523 tuition (18 months)
  • Savannah Technical College – 89 credit hours, $9,523 tuition (18 months)
  • South Georgia Technical College – 90 credit hours, $9,630 tuition (24 months)

Diploma programs provide the same technical curriculum as associate degrees but can be completed faster, making them an excellent choice for career changers.

Certificate Programs

Certificate programs offer the most flexibility, allowing students to specialize in specific areas or complete comprehensive A&P training without general education requirements.

Complete A&P Certificates

Schools Offering Full A&P Certification:

Specialized Certificates

Airframe-Only Certificates:

Powerplant-Only Certificates:

Advanced and Specialized Training

Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers several unique advanced programs:

  • Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer – 100.5 credit hours, $61,360 tuition (27 months)
  • Aviation Maintenance Technician: Avionics – 78 credit hours, $47,410 tuition (21 months)
  • Avionics Technician – 22.5 credit hours, $13,950 tuition (7 months)
  • Aviation Maintenance Technician – Internship – 83 credit hours, $50,510 tuition (23 months)

Financial Considerations

Most Affordable Options

South Georgia Technical College offers the best value for Georgia residents, with qualified students potentially attending virtually tuition-free through HOPE Grant, HOPE Career Grant, and federal PELL Grant programs. The school doesn’t participate in federal student loan programs, allowing most students to graduate debt-free.

Average Costs by Program Type

  • Associate Degrees: $10,272 – $56,710 (Average: $19,499)
  • Diplomas: $9,523 – $9,630 (Average: $9,544)
  • Complete A&P Certificates: $8,453 – $47,410 (Average: $15,461)
  • Specialized Certificates: $1,284 – $13,950 (depending on focus area)

Cost Comparison: Public vs. Private

Technical colleges in Georgia offer significantly lower tuition rates ($5,000-$11,000 for complete programs) compared to private institutions like Aviation Institute of Maintenance ($47,000-$61,000). However, AIM provides accelerated timelines and extensive industry partnerships that may justify the higher investment for some students.

Additional Fees

Most programs include mandatory fees of $180-$536 per semester, plus the cost of FAA certification exams ($1,000-$1,200). Tools, textbooks, and supplies vary by program but are often included in tuition estimates. For detailed tuition information, visit GNTC’s tuition page or Central Georgia Tech’s tuition details.

Program Duration

Fastest Programs

Average Completion Times

  • Certificates: 7-30 months
  • Diplomas: 18-24 months
  • Associate Degrees: 21-36 months

The shortest complete A&P program is offered by US Aviation Academy at 8 months for full-time students, followed by Savannah Technical College at 18 months for both diploma and certificate options.

Industry Partnerships and Special Features

Delta TechOps Partnership

Central Georgia Technical College maintains an exclusive partnership with Delta TechOps, one of only 47 schools nationwide selected for this collaboration. Students gain access to airline-grade components, facility tours, and direct career pathways with Delta.

Aviation Institute of Maintenance Industry Network

AIM boasts the most extensive industry partnership network, including direct connections to major airlines (United, Delta, American, JetBlue), OEMs (Boeing, Embraer, Textron), engine manufacturers (GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce), and leading MRO providers (AAR Corp, Delta Tech Ops, Lufthansa Technik). These partnerships provide exclusive internships, career fairs, and hiring pipelines.

Specialized Training Centers

  • Georgia Northwestern Technical College operates from a 30,744 sq ft facility at Richard B. Russell Regional Airport with five classrooms, eight labs, and on-site FAA testing
  • Augusta Technical College features a 16,000 sq ft facility at Thomson-McDuffie County Regional Airport with four complete aircraft
  • South Georgia Technical College utilizes the 42,000 sq ft Griffin Bell Aerospace Center and boasts a 100% job placement rate
  • Aviation Institute of Maintenance provides state-of-the-art hangars and labs with real aircraft and industry equipment

Military Veteran Support

US Aviation Academy offers specialized transition support for veterans, including GI Bill benefits and a 6-week A&P test prep course. Aviation Institute of Maintenance also provides veteran-specific resources and accepts military experience toward certification requirements.

Unique Program Features

Accelerated Options

US Aviation Academy provides the fastest pathway with an 8-month full-time program, while Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers comprehensive 21-month programs with extensive industry connections.

Historic Excellence

South Georgia Technical College is the oldest aviation maintenance school in Georgia (since 1948) and has been ranked as the top two-year community college in the state for several consecutive years.

Comprehensive Offerings

Georgia Northwestern Technical College provides the most diverse aviation program portfolio, including specialized certificates in avionics, aircraft assembly, composites technology, and aircraft upholstery. Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers the most advanced technical programs, including avionics specialization and technical engineer tracks.

Online and Flexible Learning

Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers unique online start options for the first two modules, while US Aviation Academy provides evening classes and hybrid formats for working adults.

Choosing the Best Program for You

When selecting the best aviation mechanic program, consider these factors:

Choose an Associate Degree if you want:

  • Maximum career advancement opportunities
  • Comprehensive education foundation
  • Management track potential

Choose a Diploma if you want:

  • Faster workforce entry than degrees
  • Focus on technical skills
  • Lower cost than associate degrees

Choose Certificates if you want:

  • Fastest path to employment
  • Specialized focus areas
  • Lowest overall cost

Financial priorities: South Georgia Technical College offers the best value for qualifying Georgia residents, while technical colleges generally provide better value than private institutions.

Speed priorities: US Aviation Academy offers the fastest complete A&P training at 8 months full-time, while Savannah Technical College provides the quickest public option at 18 months.

Industry connections: Aviation Institute of Maintenance provides the most extensive industry network, while Central Georgia Technical College’s Delta partnership offers unique career advantages.

Advanced specialization: Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers the most comprehensive avionics and technical engineer programs for students seeking specialized expertise.

The best program ultimately depends on your career goals, financial situation, timeline, and preferred learning environment. All Georgia aviation schools maintain FAA Part 147 certification and provide pathways to successful aviation maintenance careers, but the level of industry connections, program comprehensiveness, and cost varies significantly between public technical colleges and private institutions.

Steps to Become an Aviation Mechanic in Georgia

Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements

  • Be at least 16 years old (some programs require 18+)
  • Obtain high school diploma or GED certificate
  • Pass entrance tests (reading, language, and math assessments)

Step 2: Choose Your Education Path

Select from three main options:

  • Certificate Program (12-30 months, $5,136-$9,107)
  • Diploma Program (18-24 months, $9,523-$9,630)
  • Associate Degree (24-36 months, $10,272-$17,435)

Step 3: Select a School Near You

Atlanta

  • AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs (Atlanta) — 0 mi
  • US Aviation Academy Aviation Mechanic Program (Atlanta) — 0 mi

Columbus

  • CGTC Aviation Mechanic Programs (Warner Robins) — ~78 mi
  • Augusta Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs (Thomson) — ~164 mi

Augusta–Richmond County

  • Augusta Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs (Thomson) — ~28 mi
  • Middle Georgia State Aviation Mechanic Programs (Eastman) — ~81 mi

Macon–Bibb County

  • CGTC Aviation Mechanic Programs (Warner Robins) — ~15 mi
  • Augusta Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs (Thomson) — ~78 mi

Savannah

  • Savannah Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs (Savannah) — 0 mi
  • Middle Georgia State Aviation Mechanic Programs (Eastman) — ~64 mi

Athens–Clarke County

  • Global School of Aeronautics Aviation Mechanic Program (Gainesville) — ~35 mi
  • Augusta Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs (Thomson) — ~60 mi

Sandy Springs

  • AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs (Atlanta) — ~14 mi
  • US Aviation Academy Aviation Mechanic Program (Atlanta) — ~14 mi

South Fulton

  • AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs (Atlanta) — ~24 mi
  • US Aviation Academy Aviation Mechanic Program (Atlanta) — ~24 mi

Roswell

  • AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs (Atlanta) — ~19 mi
  • US Aviation Academy Aviation Mechanic Program (Atlanta) — ~19 mi

Johns Creek

  • AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs (Atlanta) — ~22 mi
  • US Aviation Academy Aviation Mechanic Program (Atlanta) — ~22 mi

Step 4: Complete Your Program

  • Attend classes and labs (hands-on training with real aircraft)
  • Maintain minimum “C” grades in all aviation courses
  • Meet FAA-mandated attendance requirements
  • Complete all required credit hours for your chosen program

Step 5: Take FAA Certification Exams

  • Written Exams – Computer-based tests on aviation regulations and technical knowledge
  • Oral Exams – Face-to-face questioning with FAA examiner
  • Practical Exams – Hands-on demonstration of maintenance skills
  • Cost: $1,000-$1,200 for all exams

Step 6: Obtain Your A&P License

  • Pass all three exam components for both Airframe and Powerplant ratings
  • Receive your FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certificate
  • License is valid worldwide and requires renewal every 24 months

Best of luck in your search! Keep em flying!