Introduction: The Growing Demand for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers

India’s aviation industry is one of the fastest-growing in the world, with increasing demand for skilled technical professionals. Among them, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) play a critical role in ensuring the safety and functionality of aircraft. With such high responsibility, the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering salary in India reflects not only the demand but also the skill and training required for the profession.

Whether you're a student exploring aviation as a career path or a parent looking for the best technical education option, understanding the aircraft maintenance engineering salary in India and how to prepare for a career in this field is essential.

What is Aircraft Maintenance Engineering?

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) is a specialised field that focuses on the inspection, repair, and maintenance of aircraft to ensure their airworthiness and safety. AMEs are certified professionals licensed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to work on aircraft, making them one of the most vital technical professionals in aviation.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Salary: What to Expect?

The Aircraft Maintenance Engineering salary in India depends on multiple factors such as qualification, license category (B1.1 or B2), organisation type (private airline or government), and years of experience.

Here’s a brief overview of the average aircraft maintenance engineering salary per month in India:

As you gain certifications and hands-on experience, the aircraft maintenance engineering salary per month grows significantly, especially with international placements.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Salary in India vs. Abroad

In India, the starting salaries for AMEs may seem moderate, but the long-term growth potential is immense. Moreover, licensed AMEs with international experience or working with global airlines can earn considerably more.

With international demand rising, Indian AMEs are increasingly finding lucrative opportunities abroad.

What Influences Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Salaries?

Several key factors determine the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Salary in India:

• License Type: B1.1 (Mechanical) and B2 (Avionics) categories command different salary bands.
  
  
• Organisation: Government PSUs like HAL and Air India offer stable jobs with good benefits; private airlines offer performance-based packages.
  
  
• Experience: With every year of practical exposure and additional certifications, salary rises steadily.
  
  
• International Certifications: Having an EASA or FAA license in addition to a DGCA adds a significant salary advantage.
  
  

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Career Growth Path

1. Trainee AME (Freshers) – Assist senior AMEs, learn on the job.
   
   
2. Licensed AME – Perform certified inspections and repairs.
   
   
3. Senior AME / Team Lead – Oversee teams, handle advanced diagnostics.
   
   
4. Chief AME / Quality Manager – Lead aircraft safety and compliance across operations.
   
   

The profession offers stable growth, increasing responsibility, and long-term income potential.

WCAT Pune: Nurturing High-Earning AMEs in India

At WCAT Pune (Wingsss College of Aviation Technology), students are trained to become industry-ready Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. Approved by DGCA and affiliated with the University of Mumbai, WCAT provides a holistic, job-oriented program combining technical knowledge with real-world exposure.

What Makes WCAT Pune Unique?

• DGCA-Approved AME Program (CAR 147 Basic)
  
  
• Dual Advantage: Option to pursue B.Sc. Aeronautics alongside AME
  
  
• Live Aircraft Exposure: Practical learning on operational aircraft
  
  
• Licensed Modules Covered: B1.1 (Mechanical) and B2 (Avionics)
  
  
• Placement Cell: Tie-ups with top recruiters like Air India, GoFirst, HAL, and JetServe
  
  

WCAT Pune AME Salary Outlook

Graduates from WCAT often start their careers with ₹3.5 – ₹5.5 LPA and progress rapidly. With excellent hands-on training and placement support, WCAT alumni have secured roles across India and abroad.

Is Aircraft Maintenance Engineering a Good Career Choice?

Yes, and here’s why:

• India’s Aviation Boom: Over 1,200 aircraft to be added by 2030
  
  
• Global Demand: Shortage of licensed AMEs worldwide
  
  
• Job Security: Aviation safety depends on your skills
  
  
• Career Flexibility: Work with airlines, MROs, defence, or abroad
  
  

Aviation is one of the few industries where a hands-on technical course like AME leads to highly rewarding and stable careers.

FAQs: Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Salary

Q1. What is the average salary of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in India?
The average aircraft maintenance engineering salary in India starts around ₹3–5.5 LPA and can go up to ₹20 LPA with experience.

Q2. What is the salary per month for a fresher AME?
Typically, a fresher earns ₹25,000 to ₹45,000 per month.

Q3. Can I work abroad after AME from WCAT?
Yes. With DGCA certification and additional licenses like EASA or FAA, you can apply for jobs abroad.

Q4. Is the AME salary higher in the government or the private sector?
The government offers more stability and benefits. Private airlines may offer higher pay based on performance and experience.

Final Takeaway

If you're looking for a high-demand, high-responsibility, and high-reward technical career in aviation, then Aircraft Maintenance Engineering is the right path. The Aircraft Maintenance Engineering salary in India has seen consistent growth, and with the expansion of the global aviation industry, your opportunities multiply further.

Institutes like WCAT Pune are shaping the next generation of licensed engineers by offering industry-recognised, DGCA-approved programs, ensuring students don’t just land jobs — they build long-term careers.