Pennsylvania Aviation Mechanic Schools

Pennsylvania leads the nation in aviation mechanic training, offering diverse pathways from accelerated certificates to comprehensive bachelor’s degrees. With the U.S. Department of Labor projecting a need for 132,000 new aviation maintenance technicians by 2040, choosing the right program is crucial for career success.

Browse the program summaries below or scroll through our program selection guide for the Keystone State.


AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs

Philadelphia | $55,000 | 21 Months

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance’s Philadelphia campus offers FAA-certified training programs in aviation maintenance, avionics, and technical engineering. Located at Northeast Philadelphia Airport, the campus features modern classrooms, aircraft hangars, and hands-on labs where students work with real aircraft and engines. Students benefit from strong employer connections, monthly career events, and preparation for multiple industry certifications.

Johnson College Aviation Mechanic Programs

Scranton | $44,100. | 24 Months

The Aviation Technology program at Johnson College is a 24-month associate degree that prepares students for FAA licensure and careers in aircraft maintenance. Students train in a real airport hangar at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, gaining hands-on experience with aircraft structures, engines, and systems. The program includes over 70 credits of instruction in both airframe and powerplant systems and emphasizes practical training through paired lecture and lab courses...read more.

Penn College of Technology Aviation Mechanic Programs

Williamsport | $30,000 to $65,000 | 16 Months to 48 Months

Penn College offers aviation maintenance programs that prepare students for FAA certification and employment in aircraft maintenance. Students can choose from a 16-month certificate, a 24-month associate degree, or a 48-month bachelor’s degree that builds on foundational training with advanced avionics and leadership coursework. All programs feature hands-on experience at the Lumley Aviation Center and are FAA Part 147 approved...read more.

PIA Aviation Mechanic Programs

Pittsburgh | $30,000 to $42,000 | 16 Months to 21 Months

Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) offers hands-on Aviation Maintenance and Electronics programs across four states, preparing students for FAA A&P certification and industry employment. Students can pursue either a diploma or an Associate in Specialized Technology degree through 16- to 21-month programs. PIA’s training is FAA Part 147 approved, industry-recognized, and includes pathways for dual certification in both mechanical and electronic aircraft systems...read more.

Saint Francis Aviation Mechanic Programs

Loretto | $54,000 | 21 Months

The Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certificate Program at Saint Francis University is a full-time, 21-month program that prepares students for FAA certification in General, Airframe, and Powerplant systems. Classes are held at the university’s Aviation Education Center in Johnstown, combining lecture-based instruction with extensive hands-on training. Graduates are equipped for entry-level roles in aviation maintenance and related technical fields...read more.

How to Choose the Best Program for You

Program Types and Duration Overview

Certificate Programs (16-21 Months)

Certificate programs provide the fastest path to FAA A&P certification, focusing exclusively on technical skills without general education requirements.

Schools Offering Certificate Programs:

Associate Degree Programs (21-24 Months)

Associate degrees combine technical training with general education, enhancing advancement potential and transferability to four-year programs.

Schools Offering Associate Degrees:

Bachelor’s Degree Programs (48 Months)

Bachelor’s programs prepare students for leadership roles, advanced avionics work, and management positions in aviation maintenance.

Schools Offering Bachelor’s Degrees:

Specialized Certifications

Several programs offer dual certifications or specialized tracks beyond standard A&P licensing.

Avionics Specialization:

Dual Certification Pathways:

Financial Considerations

Most Affordable Options

Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) – Hagerstown/Regional Campuses: $29,520 (16-month diploma) represents the best value for basic A&P certification.

Mid-Range Programs

  • Penn College of Technology Certificate: $30,000 (16 months)
  • Penn College of Technology Associate: $35,000-$38,000 (24 months)
  • Johnson College Associate: $44,100 (24 months)

Premium Programs

  • AIM Philadelphia: $47,410-$56,710 (comprehensive training with industry partnerships)
  • Saint Francis University: $54,000 (21 months, includes advanced facilities)
  • Penn College Bachelor’s: $60,000-$65,000 (leadership preparation)

Average Program Cost

Certificate programs average $37,000, while associate degrees average $42,000 across Pennsylvania institutions.

Financial Aid and Grants

Several schools have received significant federal funding:

  • Johnson College: $423,754 FAA Workforce Development Grant + $307,706 NSF Advanced Technological Education Grant
  • Saint Francis University: $1 million Appalachian Regional Commission POWER Initiative Grant
  • Most programs accept veterans’ education benefits under GI Bill programs

Industry Partnerships and Real-World Training

Best Industry Connections

Aviation Institute of Maintenance leads in industry partnerships, connecting with United, Delta, American, JetBlue, Boeing, Embraer, GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce. Their Aviation Advisory Board includes industry leaders who shape curriculum and provide direct hiring pipelines.

Unique Training Environments

  • Johnson College: Hands-on training at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport in functional hangars
  • Saint Francis University: Brand-new facilities at John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport with donated CRJ200 regional airliner
  • Penn College: Licensed repair facility at Williamsport Regional Airport with college-owned aircraft fleet

Elite Partnership Programs

Saint Francis University maintains an Elite Partnership with SkyWest Airlines, offering graduates mentoring, enhanced seniority, and guaranteed job interviews through their AMT Pathway Program.

Special Program Features

Accelerated Pathways

Penn College offers the shortest certificate program at 16 months, while PIA’s diploma programs also complete in 16 months at regional campuses.

Flexible Start Dates

  • Saint Francis University: Rolling admission with fall, spring, and summer start options
  • AIM: Multiple campus locations across 15+ states for geographic flexibility

Advanced Testing Options

Saint Francis University allows qualified students to test out of general courses, potentially reducing time and cost.

Dual Degree Options

Saint Francis University enables AMT certificate holders to complete an Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies with just four additional online courses, or pursue a Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

All programs maintain FAA Part 147 certification, ensuring graduates meet federal aviation maintenance standards. Key accreditations include:

  • Johnson College: Pending Middle States Commission on Higher Education approval
  • Saint Francis University: Middle States Commission accreditation + FAA Part 147
  • Penn College: FAA Part 147 + National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT)
  • PIA: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges (ACCSC) + FAA Part 147
  • AIM: ACCSC accreditation + FAA certification

Student-to-Faculty Ratios

Small class sizes ensure personalized attention:

  • Johnson College: 8:1 ratio
  • AIM: 25:1 lab ratio
  • Penn College: Emphasizes small class sizes and close faculty support

Choosing the Best Program for Your Goals

For Quick Entry: Choose PIA’s 16-month diploma ($29,520) or Penn College’s certificate ($30,000) for fastest, most affordable A&P certification.

For Career Advancement: Select associate degree programs at Penn College or Johnson College, providing broader skills and transfer opportunities.

For Leadership Roles: Consider Penn College’s bachelor’s degree for management preparation and advanced technical skills.

For Electronics Focus: Pursue PIA’s Aviation Electronics program or AIM’s avionics specialization for growing avionics market opportunities.

For Industry Connections: AIM’s comprehensive partnership network provides unmatched employment opportunities with major airlines and manufacturers.

The best program depends on your timeline, budget, career goals, and preferred learning environment. Pennsylvania’s diverse offerings ensure every aspiring aviation mechanic can find their optimal pathway to this high-demand, well-paying career field.

How to Become an Aviation Mechanic in Pennsylvania

Prerequisites

  • Age: Must be 18 years or older
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Language: Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Enroll in a School Near You

Here’s a list of Pennsylvania’s top 10 cities with approximate distances to the closest aviation mechanic programs:

Philadelphia

Pittsburgh

  • Closest School: PIA Aviation Mechanic Programs (Pittsburgh) – 0 miles (local)
  • Alternative: Saint Francis University (Loretto) – ~75 miles east

Allentown

  • Closest School: Aviation Institute of Technology (Philadelphia) – 65 miles southeast
  • Alternative: Penn College of Technology (Williamsport) ~125 miles northwest

Reading

Erie

Scranton

Bethlehem

Lancaster

Harrisburg

Altoona

Summary:

  • Eastern PA residents are typically closest to AIM Aviation in Philadelphia
  • Western PA residents have access to PIA Aviation in Pittsburgh
  • Central PA residents are well-served by Penn College of Technology in Williamsport
  • Scranton residents have the advantage of Johnson College locally
  • Saint Francis in Loretto serves the south-central region effectively

2. Choose Your Specialization

  • Airframe: Structural and mechanical components
  • Powerplant: Engines and propulsion systems
  • Avionics: Electronic systems and instruments
  • Some programs offer combined specializations

3. Gain Practical Experience

  • Complete 18-30 months of supervised training
  • Options include apprenticeships or on-the-job training
  • Work under certified mechanic supervision
  • Many schools have partnerships with airlines and repair facilities

4. Pass FAA Certification Exams

  • Take written exams covering regulations, procedures, and aircraft systems
  • Pass oral exams demonstrating theoretical knowledge
  • Complete practical exams showing hands-on maintenance skills

5. Obtain A&P Certificate

  • Apply to FAA with exam results and experience documentation
  • Receive Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
  • This certification is required to work as an aviation mechanic in the US