Aviation Inspectors
Inspect aircraft, maintenance procedures, air navigational aids, air traffic controls, and communications equipment to ensure conformance with Federal safety regulations.
Common Job Titles
- Aircraft Inspector
- Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI)
- Inspector
- Quality Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and air navigation equipment for regulatory compliance against Federal Aviation Administration safety standards, working independently across multiple inspection sites.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize inspection findings, mechanical knowledge, and regulatory updates to prepare comprehensive written reports and documentation for enforcement actions.Advanced
- Hands-onPerform detailed physical inspections of aircraft structures and mechanical components using precision measurement tools, borescopes, and non-destructive testing equipment in field environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze technical documentation, maintenance records, and quality control data to identify deficiencies and non-compliance issues in aviation operations.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate specialized inspection equipment including eddy current testers, ultrasonic devices, and x-ray equipment following established protocols to detect structural defects and material anomalies.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret Federal Aviation Regulations and technical specifications to communicate compliance requirements to airline personnel, maintenance teams, and external stakeholders.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate public safety principles with regulatory enforcement responsibilities when resolving conflicts between operational demands and safety compliance requirements.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess air traffic control systems, communications equipment, and navigational aids through systematic monitoring and testing to ensure operational airworthiness.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for continuous safety improvement and regulatory compliance by training aviation personnel and conducting educational outreach with industry stakeholders.Proficient
- KnowledgeDiagnose complex mechanical and electronic system malfunctions by applying engineering principles and troubleshooting methodologies under time-sensitive operational conditions.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Aviation Inspectors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,320
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,090. 25th percentile: U.S. $58,650. 50th percentile: U.S. $85,750. 75th percentile: U.S. $105,020. 90th percentile: U.S. $137,120. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $40,090 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $137,120 |
| Workers on average earn | $86,490 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language4.6/5
- Mechanical4.6/5
- Public Safety and Security4.5/5
- Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
- Transportation4.4/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
- SAS
Technology Skills
- Aircraft regulation databases
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- Dassault Systemes CATIA
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Robotic workstation software
- Technical Data Management System TDMS
Tools & Equipment
- Aircraft Technical Publishers ATP Maintenance Planner
- Angled feeler gauges
- Borescopes
- Coordinate measuring machines CMM
- Desktop computers
- Dial gauges
- Eddy current inspection equipment
- Eddy current pencil probes