The Path to A&P: Changes to FAR Part 147

Here’s what you need to know about the new FAA rule for airframe and powerplant (A&P) schools.

Richard Scarbrough

Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 01:02 PM ET

Verified

[Courtesy Mia Scarbrough]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA has modernized FAR Part 147 for aviation maintenance technician schools (AMTS), updating over five-decade-old guidelines to a performance-based system driven by the new Mechanic Airman Certification Standard (ACS).
Key changes include the elimination of seat-time requirements, shifting curriculum oversight from the FAA to nationally accredited institutions, and enabling greater flexibility for instructional methods like distance learning and dual enrollment.
These reforms are designed to foster increased collaboration between schools and industry, allowing for more relevant and adaptable training programs to address the significant shortage of skilled A&P mechanics.

See a mistake? Contact us.

It was a dark and dreary night.

Frustrated, I stared at the wiring diagram in my Basic Electronics textbook. Something was causing a severe roadblock to my understanding of the concepts. I felt inept, and feared I would never pass this required course for the general portion of my studies. Working the second shift in line maintenance, we had some downtime between flights. It was an excellent opportunity to catch up on homework for my Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) classes. But on this night, I was not getting it. Perhaps I could transfer to the ramp, work stores, or spend eternity as a helper. I needed help.