Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) has been a leader in aviation education since 1929, offering comprehensive hands-on training programs designed to prepare students for careers in aviation maintenance and electronics. The institute operates multiple campuses across Pennsylvania, Maryland, South Carolina, and Ohio, providing flexible options for students pursuing aviation technician careers.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 Months to 21 Months
- Cost: $30,000 to $42,000
- Location: PA: Pittsburgh; MD: Hagerstown; OH: Youngstown; SC: Myrtle Beach
- Website: https://pia.edu/aviation-technician-programs/aviation-maintenance-technology-program/
Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Programs
| Program | Location | Duration | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aviation Maintenance Technology (AST Degree) | Pittsburgh | 21 months | $42,140 |
| Aviation Maintenance Technology (Diploma) | Hagerstown, Myrtle Beach, Youngstown | 16 months | $29,520 + $2,595 (books/tools) + $1,680 (exam fees) |
| Aviation Electronics Technology (AST Degree) | Pittsburgh | 21 months | $42,140 + $2,144 (books/tools) + $175 (exam fee) |
| Dual Certification Pathway | Pittsburgh | Additional 8–12 months | Additional tuition applies |
PIA’s flagship Aviation Maintenance Technology program prepares students for FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification through intensive hands-on training. Graduates are eligible to take FAA certification exams and may pursue careers in commercial aviation, aircraft manufacturing, medical transport, and maintenance facilities.
The program is offered in two formats:
Associate in Specialized Technology (AST) Degree (Pittsburgh)
Graduates of the full-time Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program earn an AST degree and meet both state and FAA Part 147 requirements, qualifying them for A&P certification and entry-level aviation maintenance jobs.
Curriculum
Coursework includes:
- PP241 Introduction to Turbine Engines – A comprehensive study of gas turbine theory and operation covering engines from hand-carried size to large high-bypass turbofans. Students explore operating principles, construction, various engine systems, and gain hands-on disassembly and reassembly experience.
- PP242 Turbine Engine Technology – This course covers turbine engine systems and inspection criteria with emphasis on acceptable maintenance practices, engine trim procedures, and remote visual inspections, plus current auxiliary power unit technology and high efficiency turbofan powerplants.
- PP245 Introduction to Reciprocating Engines – Students learn internal combustion reciprocating engine history and development, examining basic piston engine components and their purposes. Overhaul and inspection procedures are studied in classroom and applied in shop for fundamental engine knowledge.
- PP246 Reciprocating Engine Technology – This course covers engine operating principles including firing orders, valve timing, and efficiencies, then addresses engine-related systems like lubrication, induction, supercharging, and exhaust with mathematical computations for compression ratios, horsepower, and fuel consumption.
- AF253 Non-Metallic Structures – This course provides comprehensive training in aircraft wooden structures and fabric coverings, including construction, repair, and inspection techniques. Students learn to apply finishing materials and study windshields, windows, doors, and interior furnishings essential to aircraft maintenance.
- AF255 Introduction to Metallic Structures – An introductory course covering metal working tools, equipment, and forming techniques with emphasis on riveting practices and special fasteners. Students explore bonded structures and physical properties of common metals used in aviation applications.
- AF256 Working With Metallic Structures – Building on introductory metallic structures knowledge, this course focuses on practical sheet metal construction and repairs. Students create components, perform structural repairs, and study metal fatigue and corrosion while utilizing technical drawings and blueprints.
- AG251 Basic Systems Maintenance – An introductory aircraft maintenance course covering fundamental knowledge areas including weight and balance calculations, hydraulic fluid line construction, nondestructive inspections, and proper hardware usage with both theoretical and practical applications.
- AG266 Fuels and Fuel Systems – A comprehensive study of aircraft fuel systems from storage tanks to engine combustion chambers. Students examine reservoirs, fuel lines, valves, distribution systems, and metering devices with emphasis on troubleshooting and maintenance practices.
- EN208 Professional Communication – This course highlights verbal communication and resume development, helping students acquire interview and resume building skills. Students develop portfolios including materials necessary for the hiring process and learn electronic resume development methods.
- PP265 Advanced Engine Overhaul – Students disassemble, inspect, reassemble, and run up reciprocating engines while learning detailed overhaul procedures including valve grinding, cylinder repair, helicoil installation, stud removal, hardware identification, pre-lubrication, and engine run-in techniques.
- PP267 Ignition Systems – This course covers engine ignition system types including battery and magneto systems with their operating characteristics. Students examine ignition components like coils, condensers, distributors, harnesses, and spark plugs with particular attention to magneto systems and starting aids.
- PP268 Propeller Systems – Students examine fundamental propeller design and related systems with attention to physical laws governing propeller operation. The course studies various propeller types from simple wooden props to variable pitch composite propellers, plus ice control and speed governing systems.
- PP269 Advanced Engine Maintenance – This course parallels industry hangar and flight line operations for powerplant technicians, conducting inspection and repair work similar to aviation fixed-base operations including engine replacement, 100-hour inspections, routine maintenance, ground runs, and towing procedures.Seventh Quarter Advanced Airframe 10 Credit Hours
- AF371 Working With Composite Materials – An in-depth study of composite materials used in aviation, medical, and advanced technical applications. Students learn safety procedures, manufacturing practices, damage assessment, and gain hands-on experience in construction and repair techniques.
- AF373 Fluid-Powered Systems – This comprehensive course examines hydraulic, pneumatic, and landing gear systems in modern aircraft. Students study environmental systems, ice protection, emergency oxygen systems, and gain practical experience with operating principles and maintenance practices.
- AG377 Advanced Aircraft Maintenance & Welding Technology – This advanced course involves complete live aircraft maintenance projects identical to field technician work. Students adjust flight controls, fabricate components, investigate FAA repair methods, conduct inspections, and learn welding inspection techniques.
More curriculum details available here: https://pia.edu/docs/catalogs/PGH-Catalog-Handbook-24-25.pdf
Cost & Duration
- 21-months
- $42,140
The tuition covers seven quarters of study, totaling 2,478 clock hours.
Aviation Maintenance Technology Diploma Program
- Hagerstown, Myrtle Beach, and Youngstown
PIA’s full-time Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program at the Hagerstown Campus is a 16-month, non-degree diploma program that meets FAA Part 147 standards and qualifies graduates to take the A&P certification exams.
Curriculum
The curriculum covers essential areas including General, Airframe, and Powerplant maintenance, with coursework spanning aerospace math, physics, electrical systems, engine maintenance, and aircraft structures.
Cost & Duration
- 16 Months
- $29,520
For the 16-month certificate program, the tuition is for four terms, with additional costs of $2,595 for books, tools, and supplies, plus $1,680 for FAA examination fees.
Aviation Electronics Technology (AET) Program
The Aviation Electronics Technology program, available exclusively at the Pittsburgh campus, is a 21-month Associate in Specialized Technology degree program that prepares students for NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician certification. This program addresses the growing industry demand for technicians skilled in both mechanical and electronic aircraft systems, with graduates often being first considered for employment by aviation employers.
Curriculum
The comprehensive curriculum includes 79 credits covering core electronics fundamentals, digital/microprocessor systems, navigation/communication technology, and advanced avionics systems. Students study topics ranging from basic electrical theory to sophisticated radar systems and automatic flight control systems.
The AET program costs $42,140 for the complete seven-quarter program, with additional expenses including $2,144 for books and tools, plus $175 for the NCATT exam fee and optional $120 for FCC licensing.
Dual Certification Pathway
PIA offers a unique dual certification option allowing graduates of one AST degree program to complete the other program in an additional 8-12 months, enabling students to earn both aviation maintenance and electronics certifications in less than three years. This dual-ticket approach is highly valued by employers seeking versatile technicians capable of maintaining both mechanical and electronic aircraft systems.
Accreditation and
The institute maintains extensive accreditations and approvals, including FAA Part 147 certification, accreditation by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges (ACCSC), and NCATT accreditation.
Industry Recognition
PIA is approved for veterans’ education benefits under multiple GI Bill programs and maintains high employment rates, with campus-specific placement rates ranging from 88% to 96% for recent graduates. The school’s strong industry relationships and hands-on training approach have made it a preferred source of skilled aviation technicians for employers across the aviation industry.