Aviation Technology

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program typically find jobs as aircraft maintenance technicians, aircraft mechanics, aircraft restorers, airframe and powerplant mechanics (A&P Mechanics), or helicopter mechanics. Graduates can work in general aviation or manufacturing of aircraft components, for a commercial airline, aircraft manufacturer, private company, museum or historical restoration company, or as an entrepreneur.

Program Learning Goals

Goal 1: Graduates will possess the appropriate skills and safety awareness necessary for entry-level employment in the aviation maintenance field.

Goal 2: Graduates will gain an understanding of the requirements and responsibilities of being a certificated Federal Aviation Administration’s Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic

Goal 3: Graduates will gain the knowledge and skills outlined in the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airman Certification Standards required to become a FAA-Certificated Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic.

Applicants are encouraged to arrange a campus visit and a personal information session with a Recruitment Advisor. Appointments may also be made to meet with appropriate faculty and current students.

Admissions Requirements

There may be special admission requirements for this program. Please speak with a Recruitment Advisor by calling 570-702-8856 or visit our website johnson.edu to review our requirements.

Employment Opportunities

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft Restorer

Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic

Helicopter Mechanic

Course Outline

For course descriptions, please visit the Course Catalog.

Course Descriptions

AVT 101– Fundamentals of Electricity and Electronics     3 credits

Basic electricity theory is covered in this course including static and current electricity, basic electrical units, terminology and magnetism.  Circuit components are discussed and complex DC circuits are analyzed using Ohm’s Law and power formulas.  Different methods of generating electrical energy are covered and laboratory projects include fabrication and testing of circuits containing a variety of components.  A unit on the theory, testing and maintenance of batteries rounds out the DC phase of this course.  Primary and secondary batteries including lead-acid and nickel-cadmium types are included.  The AC phase of the course involves mathematically analyzing inductive and capacitive circuits including power formulas.  Solid-state devices are introduced and theory discussed.  A final unit on testing and troubleshooting is covered in this course.  The General curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is General Subject A. Fundamentals of Electricity and Electronics; Sections AM.I.A.K1 thru AM.I.A.K27. (Co-requisite: AVT 102)

AVT 102- Electronics Lab     2 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 101. Basic electricity theory is covered in this course including static and current electricity, basic electrical units, terminology and magnetism.  Circuit components are discussed and complex DC circuits are analyzed using Ohm’s Law and power formulas.  Different methods of generating electrical energy are covered and laboratory projects include fabrication and testing of circuits containing a variety of components.  A unit on the theory, testing and maintenance of batteries rounds out the DC phase of this course.  Primary and secondary batteries including lead-acid and nickel-cadmium types are included.  The AC phase of the course involves mathematically analyzing inductive and capacitive circuits including power formulas.  Solid-state devices are introduced and theory discussed.  A final unit on testing and troubleshooting is covered in this course.  The General curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is General Subject A. Fundamentals of Electricity and Electronics; Sections AM.I.A.R1 thru AM.I.A.R4 and AM.I.A.S1 thru AM.I.A.S14. (Co-requisite: AVT 102)

AVT 104– Weight and Balance Lab     1 credit

This laboratory course introduces the student to the fundamental principles of aircraft weight and balance. Topics include terminology, procedures, calculations and record keeping for preparing the weight and balance of an aircraft. The General curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is General Subject B-Aircraft Drawings & C- Weight and Balance; Sections AM.I.B.K1 thru AM.I.B.K4, AM.I.B.R1 thru AM.I.B.R4, AM.I.B.S1 thru AM.I.B.S6 AM.I.C.K1 thru AM.I.C.K10, AM.I.C.R1 thru AM.I.C.R5 and AM.I.C.S1 thru AM.I.C.S17. (Co-requisite: ART 107)

AVT 105– Aircraft Materials, Hardware & Processes     1 credit

This course introduces the student to the materials used in aircraft and how to identify them, including types of fasteners typically used.  Additionally, the processes that keep all equipment in usable condition will be explored.  The General curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are General Subjects D -Fluid Lines and Fittings, E-Aircraft Materials, Hardware & Processes, and G-Cleaning and Corrosion Control; Sections AM.I.D.K1 thru AM.I.D.K6, AM.I.E.K1 thru AM.I.E.K14 and AM.I.G.K1 thru AM.I.G.K24.  (Co-requisite: AVT 106)

AVT 106– Aircraft Materials Lab     2 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 105 and introduces the student to the materials used in aircraft and how to identify them, including types of fasteners typically used.  Additionally, the processes that keep all equipment in usable condition will be explored.  The General curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are General Subjects D -Fluid Lines and Fittings, E-Aircraft Materials, Hardware & Processes, and G-Cleaning and Corrosion Control; Sections AM.I.D.R1 thru AM.I.D.R7, AM.I.D.S1 thru AM.I.D.S8, AM.I.E.R1 thru AM.I.E.R4, AM.I.E.S1 thru AM.I.E.S14, AM.I.G.R1 thru AM.I.G.R8, an d AM.I.G.S1 thru AM.I.G.S14 (Co-requisite: AVT 105)

AVT 107– Regulations, Inspection Techniques & Forms     2 credits

Ground operation and servicing topics covered include shop and flight line safety (fire safety and procedures, jacking safety, hazardous materials procedures, e-down techniques, standard hand signals, and fueling safety and procedures, etc.).  Servicing with ground power units, oxygen and other related items used on aircraft are discussed.  This course covers a review of regulations, maintenance forms, records and publications along with inspection concepts and techniques and finally human factors.  The General curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-SACS-1 are General Subject F-Ground Operations and Servicing, I-Regulations, Maintenance forms, Records, and Publications, K-Inspection Concepts and Techniques, and L-Human Factors; Sections AM.I.F.K1 thru AM.I.F.K16, AM.I.I.K1 thru AM.I.I.K13, AM.I.K1 thru AM.I.K23, AM.I.K1 thru AM.I.K5.  (Co-requisite: AVT 108)

AVT 108– Aircraft Regulations Lab    2 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 107 with a focus on ground operation and servicing topics covered include shop and flight line safety (fire safety and procedures, jacking safety, hazardous materials procedures, e-down techniques, standard hand signals, and fueling safety and procedures, etc.).  Servicing with ground power units, oxygen and other related items used on aircraft are performed, along with towing, taxiing aircraft, and engine starting procedures.  The General curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-SACS-1 are General Subject F-Ground Operations and Servicing, I-Regulations, Maintenance forms, Records, and Publications, K-Inspection Concepts and Techniques, and L-Human Factors; Sections AM.I.F.R1 thru AM.I.F.R10, AM.I.F.S1 thru AM.I.F.S12, AM.I.I.R1 thru AM.I.I.R5, AM.I.I.S1 thru AM.I.I.S18, AM.I.K.R1 thru AM.I.K.R5, AM.I.K.S1 thru AM.I.K.S18. AM.I.L.R1 thru AM.I.L.R1 thru AM.I.L.R3, AM.I.L.S1 thru AM.I.L.S3. (Co-requisite: AVT 107)

AVT 110– Aircraft Physics and Math Lab     1 credit

This laboratory course instructs students on the math and physics problems encountered by aviation mechanics. Students will perform mathematical calculations through the use of correct methods, procedures, and practice. The General Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are General Subject H-Mathematics, J-Physics for Aviation; Sections AM.I.H.K1 thru AM.I.H.K13, AM.I.H.R1 thru AM.I.H.R3, AM.I.H.S1 thru AM.I.H.S8, AM.I.J.K1 thru AM.I.J.K13,  AM.I.J.R1 thru AM.I.J.R4, AM.I.J.S1 thru AM.I.J.S8 (Pre-requisite: MAT 111)

AVT 211– Aircraft Metallic Structures     2 credits

This course introduces students to the various materials and processes used in aircraft fabrication and repair including the uses, strengths, limitations, and other characteristics of structural metals. The Airframe Curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Airframe Subject A-Metallic Structures; Sections AM.II.A.K1 thru AM.II.A.K17.  (Co-requisite: AVT 212)

AVT 212– Aircraft Metallic Structures Lab    2 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 211 and provides instruction in basic sheet metal skills including forming, welding, riveting and material selection.  The Airframe Curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Airframe Subject A-Metallic Structures; Sections AM.II.A.R1 thru AM.II.A.R5, AM.II.A.S1 thru AM.II.A.S14. (Co-requisite: AVT 211)

AVT 213  Aircraft Non-Metallic Structures     1 credit

This course introduces students to the various materials and processes used in aircraft fabrication and repair including the uses, strengths, limitations, and other characteristics of wood, fiberglass, composite, thermoplastic and fabrics. The Airframe Curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Airframe Subject B-Non-Metallic Structures; Sections AM.II.B.K1 thru AM.II.B.K29.  (Co-requisite: AVT 213)

AVT 214– Aircraft Non-Metallic Structures Lab     1 credit

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 213. Students work with the various materials and processes used in aircraft fabrication and repair including the uses, strengths, limitations, and other characteristics of wood, fiberglass, composite, thermoplastic and fabrics. The Airframe Curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Airframe Subject B-Non-Metallic Structures.  AVT 113 will cover sections AM.II.B.K1 thru AM.II.B.K29.  AVT 114 will cover sections AM.II.B.R1 thru AM.II.A.R7, AM.II.A.S1 thru AM.II.A.S12. (Co-requisite: AVT 214)

AVT 215– Aircraft Controls, Airframe Inspection and Systems     1 credits

This course focuses on the required inspections of aircraft component systems, including cables, tubes and components associated with aircraft control. The required knowledge of rotorcraft including flight controls, ground handling and rigging is also included.  The Airframe Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Airframe Subject C-Flight Controls, D-Airframe Inspection, E-Landing Gear Systems, F-Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems and N-Rotorcraft Fundamentals; Sections AM.II.C.K1 thru AM.II.C.K13, AM.II.D.K1 thru AM.II.D.K9, AM.II.E.K1 thru AM.II.E.K13, AM.II.F.K1 thru AM.II.F.K11 and AM.II.N.K1 thru AM.II.N.K9. (Co-requisite: AVT 216)

AVT 216– Aircraft Controls, Airframe Inspection and Systems Lab     2 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 215 and focuses on the required inspections of aircraft component systems, including cables, tubes and components associated with aircraft control. The required skills for rotorcraft including flight controls, ground handling and rigging is also included.  The Airframe Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Airframe Subject C-Flight Controls, D-Airframe Inspection, E-Landing Gear Systems, F-Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems and N-Rotorcraft Fundamentals; Sections AM.II.C.R1 thru AM.II.C.R5, AM.II.C.S1 thru AM.II.C.S12, AM.II.D.R1 thru AM.II.D.R5, AM.II.D.S1 thru AM.II.D.S7, AM.II.E.R1 thru AM.II.E.R6, AM.II.E.S1 thru AM.II.E.S29, AM.II.F.R1 thru AM.II.F.R5, AM.II.F.S1 thru AM.II.F.S16 and AM.II.N.R1 thru AM.II.N.R4, AM.II.N.S1 thru AM.II.N.S4. (Co-requisite: AVT 215)

AVT 217– Airframe Environmental, Instrument lighting and Water Systems    2 credits

This course focuses on the function, operation, and inspection of aircraft systems, including the maintenance and repair of pressurization, air conditioning, and cabin pressurization systems. The Airframe Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Airframe Subject G-Environmental Systems, H-Airframe Instrument systems, I-Communications and Navigation Systems, and O-Water and Waste Water Systems; Sections AM.II.G.K1 thru AM.II.G.K9, AM.II.H.K1 thru AM.II.G.K24, AM.II.I.K1 thru AM.II.I.K21, AM.II.O.K1 thru AM.II.O.K3.  (Co-requisite: AVT 218)

AVT 218– Airframe Environmental, Instrument lighting and Water Systems Lab     2 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 217 and focuses on the function, operation and inspection of aircraft systems, including the maintenance and repair of pressurization, air conditioning, and cabin pressurization systems. The Airframe Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Airframe Subject G-Environmental Systems, H-Airframe Instrument systems, I-Communications and Navigation Systems, and O-Water and Waste Water Systems; Sections AM.II.G.R1 thru AM.II.G.R6, AM.II.G.S1 thru AM.II.G.S14, AM.II.H.R1 thru AM.II.H.R5, AM.II.H.S1 thru AM.II.H.S14, AM.II.I.R1 thru AM.II.I.R6, AM.II.I.S1 thru AM.II.I.S13, AM.II.O.R1, AM.II.O.S1 thru AM.II.O.S2. (Co-requisite: AVT 217)

AVT 219– Airframe Fuel, Electrical, Ice & Fire Control Systems    2 credits

This course focuses on aircraft fuel, electrical, ice & rain control systems, and fire protection systems. The fuel section involves fuel types, system components, fuel flow, system maintenance and inspection.  The electrical section details AC and DC power systems, basic wiring, troubleshooting and repair.  While the fire section describes the types of fires, correct extinguishing agents, detection and warning systems, maintenance, and inspection.  The Airframe Curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Airframe Subject J-Aircraft Fuel Systems, K-Aircraft Electrical Systems, L-Ice and Rain Control Systems, and M-Airframe Fire Protection Systems; Sections AM.II.J.K1 thru AM.II.J.K9, AM.II.K.K1 thru AM.II.K.K17, AM.II.L.K1 thru AM.II.L.K7, AM.II.M.K1 thru AM.II.M.K7.  (Co-requisite: AVT 220)

AVT 220– Airframe Fuel, Electrical, Ice & Fire Control Systems Lab     3 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 219 and focuses on fuel types, system components, fuel flow, system maintenance and inspection.  The electrical section details AC and DC power systems, basic wiring, troubleshooting and repair.  While the fire section describes the types of fires, correct extinguishing agents, detection and warning systems, maintenance, and inspection. The Airframe Curriculum subject included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Airframe Subject J-Aircraft Fuel Systems, K-Aircraft Electrical Systems, L-Ice and Rain Control Systems, and M-Airframe Fire Protection Systems; Sections AM.II.J.R1 thru AM.II.J.R5, AM.II.J.S1 thru AM.II.J.S17, AM.II.K.R1 thru AM.II.K.R9, AM.II.K.S1 thru AM.II.K.S20, AM.II.L.R1 thru AM.II.L.R3, AM.II.M.R1 thru AM.II.M.R3, AM.II.M.S1 thru AM.II.M.S12. (Co-requisite: AVT 219)

AVT 221– Aircraft Reciprocating Engines     3 credits

This course focuses on the operating principles and theory of reciprocating engine operation, performance, maintenance and inspection.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject A-Reciprocating Engines; Sections AM.III.A.K1 thru AM.III.A.K10.

AVT 222– Aircraft Reciprocating Engines Lab     3 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 221. Instruction focuses on applying the operating principles and theory of reciprocating engine operation, performance, maintenance and inspection.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject A-Reciprocating Engines; Sections AM.III.A.R1 thru AM.II.D.R4, AM.III.A.S1 thru AM.III.A.S9. (Co-requisite: AVT 221)

AVT 223– Aircraft Turbine Engines     3 credits

This course focuses on the operating principles and theory of turbine engines. Topics include types of turbines, construction, performance, troubleshooting, maintenance and inspection, engine adjustment, and testing.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject B-Turbine Engines; Sections AM.III.B.K1 thru AM.III.B.K11. (Co-requisite: AVT 224)

AVT 224– Airframe Turbine Engines Lab     3 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 223. Instruction focuses on applying the operating principles and theory of turbine engines. Topics include types of turbines, construction, performance, troubleshooting, maintenance and inspection, engine adjustment, and testing.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject B-Turbine Engines; Sections AM.III.B.R1 thru AM.III.B.R4, AM.III.B.S1 thru AM.III.B.S13. (Co-requisite: AVT 223)

AVT 225– Aircraft Engine, Fire Protection & Electrical Systems    2 credits

This course focuses on engine inspection, instrument systems, fire protection systems, and electrical systems. The engine portion of this class will focus on inspection requirements, special inspections, compliance with required documentation and approved data.  Along with engine instruments that monitor fuel flow, temperature, engine speed, along with warnings, caution and advisory lights.  Engine fire protection covers types of agents, types of fires and where they might occur, and maintenance and inspection of such systems. The final section of the class will discuss generators, alternators, AC and DC systems and procedures for correct wiring.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject C-Engine Inspection, D-Engine Instrument Systems, E-Engine Fire Protection Systems, and F-Engine Electrical Systems; Sections AM.III.C.K1 thru AM.III.C.K8, AM.III.D.K1 thru AM.III.D.K11,  AM.III.E.K1 thru AM.III.E.K5, AM.III.F.K1 thru AM.III.F.K10. (Co-requisite: AVT 226)

AVT 226– Aircraft Engine, Fire Protection & Electrical Systems Lab     3 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 226 and focuses on applying the inspection, maintenance, and compliance requirements for fire protection of engine and electrical systems. The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject C-Engine Inspection, D-Engine Instrument Systems, E-Engine Fire Protection Systems, and F-Engine Electrical Systems; Sections AM.III.C.R1 thru AM.III.C.R3, AM.III.C.S1 thru AM.III.C.S14, .AM.III.D.R1 thru AM.III.D.R2, AM.III.D.S1 thru AM.III.D.S19, AM.III.E.R1 thru AM.III.E.R3, AM.III.E.S1 thru AM.III.E.S14, AM.III.F.R1 thru AM.III.F.R4, AM.III.F.S1 thru AM.III.F.S15. (Co-requisite: AVT 225)

AVT 227- Aircraft Lubrication, Ignition & Starting, Induction & Fuel Systems    2 credits

This course focuses on engine lubrication systems, ignition and starting systems, engine fuel and fuel metering systems, and engine induction and cooling systems.  Items discussed will include types of oil, types of lubrication systems, spark plugs, shower of sparks, digital engine controls, rotary and turbine engine ignition systems, fuel lines, fuel pumps, fuel valves, fuel filters, fuel drains, and reciprocating engine induction and cooling system theory, components and operation.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Powerplant Subject G-Engine Lubrication Systems, H-Ignition and Starting Systems, I-Engine Fuel and Fuel Metering Systems, J-Reciprocating Engine Induction and Cooling Systems; Sections AM.III.G.K1 thru AM.III.G.K7, AM.III.H.K1 thru AM.III.H.K9, AM.III.I.K1 thru AM.III.I.K16, AM.III.J.K1 thru AM.III.J.K10.  (Co-requisite: AVT 228)

AVT 228– Aircraft Lubrication, Ignition & Starting, Induction & Fuel Systems  Lab     3 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 227, focusing on applying the components and operation requirements for fuel systems, ignition and starting systems, and induction and cooling systems. The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 is Powerplant Subject G-Engine Lubrication Systems, H-Ignition and Starting Systems, I-Engine Fuel and Fuel Metering Systems, J-Reciprocating Engine Induction and Cooling Systems; Sections AM.III.G.R1 thru AM.III.G.R3, AM.III.G.S1 thru AM.III.G.S14, AM.III.H.R1 thru AM.III.H.R3, AM.III.H.S1 thru AM.III.H.S17, AM.III.I.R1 thru AM.II.I.R5, AM.III.I.S1 thru AM.III.I.S30, AM.III.J.R1 thru AM.III.J.R4, AM.III.J.S1 thru AM.III.J.S19. (Co-requisite: AVT 227)

AVT 229– Aircraft Engine Air, Exhaust & Reverser Systems     2 credits

This course will focus on turbine engine air systems, engine exhaust and reverser systems.  Included in turbine air systems are insulation blankets and shrouds, baffles and seals.  Also discussed is bleed air system theory, components and operation.  Exhaust and mufflers, hush kits and augmenter tubes are also included as part of air systems.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject K -Turbine Engine Air Systems, L-Engine Exhaust and Reverser Systems; Sections AM.III.K.K1 thru AM.III.K.K4, AM.III.L.K1 thru AM.III.L.K4. (Co-requisite: AVT 230)

AVT 230–  Aircraft Engine Air, Exhaust & Reverser Systems Lab     2 credits

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 229 and focuses on applying the requirements of turbine engine air systems, including exhaust and mufflers. The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject K -Turbine Engine Air Systems, L-Engine Exhaust and Reverser Systems; Sections AM.III.K.R1 thru AM.III.K.R2, AM.III.K.S1 thru AM.III.K.S8, AM.III.L.R1 thru AM.III.L.R5, AM.III.L.S.1 thru AM.III.L.S7. (Co-requisite: AVT 229)

AVT 231– Aircraft Propellers    1 credit

This course will focus on the operating principles and theory of propellers including types of propellers, construction, performance, troubleshooting, maintenance and inspection, and installation.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject M-Propellers; Sections AM.III.M.K1 thru AM.III.M.K10.  (Co-requisite: AVT 232)

AVT 232– Aircraft Propellers Lab     1 credit

This laboratory course incorporates the skills needed to apply information presented in AVT 231. Instruction focuses on applying the operating principles and theory of propellers including types of propellers, construction, performance, troubleshooting, maintenance and inspection, and installation.  The Powerplant Curriculum subjects included in this course and required by FAA-S-ACS-1 are Powerplant Subject M-Propellers; Sections AM.III.M.R1 thru AM.III.M.R2, AM.III.M.S1 thru AM.III.M.S12. (Co-requisite: AVT 231)