Aircraft Technician Salary in 2025

As the aviation industry continues to rebound and expand globally, the demand for skilled aircraft technicians is soaring. Whether you’re considering entering the field or already working as a technician, understanding the salary landscape in 2025 can help you plan your career effectively. This article breaks down the average salary, factors influencing earnings, and job outlook—delivering clear insights for anyone pursuing this in-demand trade.

Average Aircraft Technician Salary in 2025

In 2025, aircraft technicians in the U.S. earn an average annual salary ranging from $55,000 to $103,000, depending on various factors such as location, experience, and certifications. Here’s a general breakdown:

Entry-Level (0–2 years): $45,000 – $60,000
Mid-Level (3–7 years): $61,000 – $80,000
Senior Technicians (8–15 years): $81,000 – $95,000
Lead Technicians or Supervisors: $96,000 – $103,000+

Factors That Influence Aircraft Technician Earnings

Several key factors can impact how much an aircraft technician takes home in 2025:

1. Experience Level

More years in the field often lead to higher pay.
Senior roles like Lead Technician or Inspector command higher salaries.

2. Location

Technicians in major aviation hubs like Atlanta, Dallas, Seattle, and Miami tend to earn more due to demand and cost of living.
Rural areas or smaller regional airports often offer lower pay but more stable job conditions.

3. Certifications

Holding FAA certifications such as Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) can significantly boost earnings.
Additional credentials like IA (Inspection Authorization) or avionics specialties can lead to niche, higher-paying roles.

4. Employer Type

Airlines, government agencies, and defense contractors typically offer better compensation and benefits than smaller maintenance shops.
Unionized roles often come with better pay scales and job protections.

5. Shift and Schedule

Night shifts, weekend work, and on-call duties often include shift differentials and overtime pay.

Salary by Industry Segment

Different sectors within aviation also affect earnings:

Commercial Airlines: $70,000 – $95,000
Military/Defense Contractors: $75,000 – $103,000
General Aviation: $55,000 – $80,000
Manufacturing (OEMs like Boeing): $72,000 – $100,000

Job Outlook for Aircraft Technicians in 2025

The job market remains strong in 2025, driven by:

Recovery in global air travel post-COVID.
Fleet expansion and modernization.
Retirements creating talent gaps.
Increased demand for technicians with avionics and automation skills.

According to current industry projections, employment for aircraft and avionics technicians is expected to grow by 6–7% through 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.

Benefits and Perks

Beyond salary, many aircraft technicians enjoy a range of benefits:

Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
401(k) plans with employer match
Paid time off and holidays
Travel perks (especially with airlines)
Tuition assistance for continued education

Education and Certification Requirements

To enter the field and maximize earnings:

High school diploma or GED is required.
Completion of an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school (Part 147) is highly recommended.
A&P Certification from the FAA is often essential.
Additional education or associate degrees in aviation maintenance technology can lead to higher pay and faster promotions.

Conclusion

An aircraft technician career in 2025 offers a promising blend of job stability, solid pay, and career growth opportunities. Whether you’re new to the field or aiming to advance into senior or specialized roles, understanding the salary landscape and growth factors can help you make informed decisions. With the right experience, certifications, and employer, aircraft technicians can earn well into the six-figure range—making it a lucrative and fulfilling career path in a high-demand industry.