Optional · 1 of 3
Ratings that open more work
Inspection Authorization (IA)
Available after three years holding both ratings. Lets you approve major repairs and sign annual inspections.
Avionics training
Aircraft electronics and instruments. Avionics technicians had a 2025 median of $82,280 a year, close to the $79,870 for aircraft mechanics.
Nondestructive testing (NDT)
Finding cracks with ultrasound, dye and eddy current. A specialty within heavy maintenance.
Manufacturer type courses
Factory training on a specific aircraft family makes you more useful to an operator that flies it.