Indiana provides multiple pathways to aviation maintenance careers through three accredited institutions offering FAA-approved Part 147 training programs. These schools serve students across the state with options ranging from affordable certificate programs to comprehensive associate degrees, ensuring accessible aviation training regardless of location or budget.
AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs
Indianapolis | $55,000 | 21 Months
Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) Indianapolis offers hands-on aviation maintenance training in a 32,000-square-foot facility equipped with an FAA testing center, engine shop, composite and welding labs, and real aircraft. Students can pursue an AMT certificate or earn an Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology in just 21 months. With industry tours, strong employer partnerships, and experienced instructors, AIM prepares graduates for direct entry into the aviation workforce.
Ivy Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs
Fort Wayne | $2,000 to $12,000 | 4 Months to 24 Months
Ivy Tech Community College offers FAA-approved aviation maintenance training at its Fort Wayne campus, with program options ranging from short-term certificates to full associate degrees in airframe and powerplant specialties. Students learn through in-person instruction with hands-on labs covering topics like aircraft structures, hydraulics, engine systems, and avionics. These programs are structured for quick career entry and support FAA certification pathways...read more.
Vincennes Aviation Mechanic Programs
Vincennes | $14,000 | 24 Months
Vincennes University’s Aviation Maintenance Technology programs offer FAA-certified training in airframe and powerplant systems through hands-on instruction and small class sizes at a state-of-the-art facility located at Indianapolis International Airport. Students complete 1,900 hours of training across 45 subjects, including aircraft systems, engines, electronics, and structural repair. The program is designed to prepare graduates for FAA certification and entry-level aviation technician roles...read more.
How to Choose the Best Program for You
Indiana offers diverse aviation maintenance training options, from quick certificate programs to comprehensive associate degrees. Whether you’re seeking the fastest path to certification or the most comprehensive technical education, understanding your options helps identify the best program for your career goals and financial situation.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs provide focused technical training without general education requirements, making them the fastest route to FAA certification.
Aviation Maintenance Technician Certificates
Ivy Tech Community College offers the most affordable certificate option with their Certificate in Aviation Maintenance – General Concentration. This 18.5 credit hour program takes 4-5 months and costs just $3,389, making it Indiana’s cheapest aviation training option.
The Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) provides more comprehensive certificate training with their 21-month Aviation Maintenance Technician program costing $47,410. AIM’s program includes 78 credit hours across multiple Indiana locations.
Specialized Certifications
AIM offers the best selection of specialized certifications, including:
- Aviation Maintenance Technician: Avionics (21 months, $47,410)
- Avionics Technician (7 months, $13,950)
- Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer (27 months, $61,360)
The 7-month Avionics Technician program represents the shortest specialized training available in Indiana.
Associate Degree Programs
Associate degree programs combine technical aviation training with general education, providing broader career flexibility and transfer opportunities.
Traditional A&P Programs
Vincennes University operates Indiana’s most comprehensive facility at the Aviation Technology Center at Indianapolis International Airport. Their 63 credit hour programs cost $13,758 and take 24 months to complete. Students choose between:
- Aviation Maintenance Technology – Airframe Concentration
- Aviation Maintenance Technology – Powerplant Concentration
Ivy Tech Community College offers competitive associate degrees at $11,416 for 64 credit hours over 24 months:
- AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Airframe Concentration
- AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Powerplant Concentration
Accelerated Options for Licensed Mechanics
Ivy Tech provides the best value for existing FAA-licensed mechanics with their accelerated AAS program. This 16 credit hour option costs just $2,854 and takes 4-8 months, allowing licensed mechanics to earn an associate degree quickly.
Comprehensive Multi-Discipline Programs
AIM offers the most extensive associate degree through their AAS/AOS in Aviation Maintenance Technology (21 months, $56,710), combining airframe, powerplant, and general education coursework.
Financial Considerations
Most Affordable Options
Indiana’s cheapest aviation training starts at $2,854 for Ivy Tech’s accelerated program for licensed mechanics. The lowest-cost entry-level option is Ivy Tech’s certificate program at $3,389.
Average Program Costs
Certificate Programs: $3,389 – $61,360 (average: $32,375) Associate Degrees: $11,416 – $56,710 (average: $27,221)
Cost Factors
In-state residents benefit significantly from public institution pricing. Ivy Tech and Vincennes University offer the best value with costs under $15,000, while private institutions like AIM range from $47,410 to $61,360.
Program Duration
Shortest Programs
- Avionics Technician (AIM): 7 months
- Certificate in Aviation Maintenance (Ivy Tech): 4-5 months
- Accelerated AAS for Licensed Mechanics (Ivy Tech): 4-8 months
Average Duration
Most comprehensive programs require 21-24 months, with certificate programs typically completing in 4-21 months and associate degrees taking 24 months.
Industry Partnerships
Vincennes University maintains the strongest local industry connections, with job placement rates of three opportunities per graduate within Indiana. Graduates typically start at $30 per hour with employers like GE Aviation.
AIM offers the most extensive national partnerships, connecting students with major airlines (United, Delta, American, JetBlue), OEMs (Boeing, Embraer, Textron), and engine manufacturers (GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce). Their Aviation Advisory Board includes industry leaders who shape curricula and provide mentorship.
Ivy Tech focuses on regional partnerships with small fixed-based operators, major airports, and repair facilities, emphasizing local job placement.
Special Features and Learning Environments
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Vincennes University operates the most impressive facility – a 92,000-square-foot Aviation Technology Center with two hangars, 15 aircraft including a fully functional Boeing 737-200, and direct airfield access. Class sizes are limited to 25 students maximum.
AIM provides instruction in FAA-standard hangars using real aircraft and industry-relevant equipment including jet engines and turboprops across multiple campus locations.
Ivy Tech emphasizes hands-on training with experienced instructors and maintains a 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Military-Friendly Programs
Vincennes University offers specialized military transition programs:
- Military Airframe Concentration
- Military Powerplant Concentration
These 24-month programs address differences between military and civilian aviation maintenance while meeting FAA certification requirements.
Unique Program Features
AIM’s Internship Program (23 months, $50,510) combines classroom training with real workplace experience through a required 150-hour externship.
Ivy Tech’s Professional Flight Partnership with LIFT Academy offers aviation management and professional pilot training alongside maintenance programs.
Choosing the Best Program
The best aviation mechanic program depends on your specific circumstances:
For Budget-Conscious Students: Ivy Tech’s certificate program ($3,389) or associate degree options ($11,416) provide excellent value.
For Comprehensive Training: Vincennes University offers the best facilities and industry connections at reasonable cost ($13,758).
For National Opportunities: AIM provides extensive industry partnerships and multiple specializations, though at higher cost ($47,410-$61,360).
For Military Veterans: Vincennes University’s military-specific programs ease the transition to civilian aviation careers.
For Quick Entry: AIM’s 7-month Avionics Technician program or Ivy Tech’s 4-5 month certificate provide the fastest paths to employment.
Consider location, cost, program length, and career goals when selecting your aviation maintenance training. Indiana’s diverse offerings ensure options for every student seeking to enter this high-demand field.
Steps to Become an Aviation Mechanic in Indiana
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old and able to read, write, speak, and understand English. You will need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Step 2: Find a School Nearby
Indiana offers three main aviation maintenance training options across the state:
From Indianapolis:
- AIM Aviation (Indianapolis) – 0 miles (located in Indianapolis)
- Vincennes University (Vincennes) – 120 miles southwest
- Ivy Tech (Fort Wayne) – 120 miles northeast
From Fort Wayne:
- Ivy Tech (Fort Wayne) – 0 miles (located in Fort Wayne)
- AIM Aviation (Indianapolis) – 120 miles southwest
- Vincennes University (Vincennes) – 240 miles southwest
From Evansville:
- Vincennes University (Vincennes) – 60 miles northeast
- AIM Aviation (Indianapolis) – 180 miles northeast
- Ivy Tech (Fort Wayne) – 300 miles northeast
From South Bend:
- Ivy Tech (Fort Wayne) – 90 miles southeast
- AIM Aviation (Indianapolis) – 180 miles southeast
- Vincennes University (Vincennes) – 280 miles southeast
From Carmel:
- AIM Aviation (Indianapolis) – 15 miles south
- Vincennes University (Vincennes) – 120 miles southwest
- Ivy Tech (Fort Wayne) – 110 miles northeast
Step 3: Choose Your Program Type
- Certificate Programs: 4-21 months, focus on technical skills only
- Associate Degree Programs: 24 months, include general education
- Specialized Programs: Avionics, military transition options
Step 4: Complete Your Training
- Attend FAA-approved Part 147 aviation maintenance school
- Complete required classroom and hands-on instruction
- Pass all course examinations and practical assessments
- Accumulate required training hours (typically 1,900+ hours)
Step 5: Pass FAA Written Examinations
- Take FAA written exams for General, Airframe, and/or Powerplant
- Achieve passing scores (70% minimum)
- Written exams can be taken at approved testing centers
Step 6: Pass FAA Practical Examinations
- Schedule oral and practical exams with a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME)
- Demonstrate knowledge and hands-on skills
- Complete separate exams for Airframe and Powerplant if seeking both ratings
Step 7: Apply for FAA Certificate
- Submit application and required documentation to FAA
- Pay applicable fees
- Receive your Airframe and/or Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certificate
Step 8: Begin Your Career
- Apply for positions at airlines, repair stations, or maintenance facilities
- Consider pursuing additional certifications or specializations
- Maintain currency through continuing education and experience requirements