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DIFFERENT LICENcES? MODULES? EXAMS? EXPLAIN!!
THE 3 MAIN LICENCES AND HOW TO GET ONE!
One of the best things about the aviation industry as an engineer, is that there are multiple routes that you can go down! Career progression is ALWAYS encouraged.
There are 4 main licence categories that you will hear about in the industry. These are: CAT A, CAT B1, CAT B2 and CAT C. Now, it is important to know that you absolutely do not have to get a licence! You can still work on aircraft, but instead you will have a mechanic role!
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CAtergory a licence
What is it?
A CAT A licence enables you to perform minor scheduled maintenance on aircraft as well as basic defect rectification.
How do I obtain one?
In order to get your CAT A licence there are two main things you need. The first being 3 years experience on the tools, in an aircraft maintenance environment. You will need proof of this - therefore the CAA requires a CAP 741 logbook to be filled out. This involves you recording every maintenance task you perform over the 3 year period. A qualified engineer will then sign each task off.
The second thing you need is for all your exams to be completed. CAT A requires 12 module exams to be passed at 75% (this is the CAA's standard). On completion of the above, you can submit your logbook, along with your exams to the CAA, who will then issue you with your license.
The best way to get a CAT A licence quickly, is to apply for an apprenticeship - the company will arrange and cover all this for you. It means that you only require 1 year experience on completing training provided by a Part-147 company. Plus, you get paid ;) Visit our APPLY NOW! page for a list of companies taking on apprentices!
Which modules should I take?
Module 1: Mathematics
Module 2: Physics
Module 3: Electrical Fundamentals
Module 5: Digital Techniques & Electronic Instrument Systems
Module 6: Materials & Hardware
Module 7: Maintenance Practices
Module 8: Aerodynamics
Module 9: Human Factors
Module 10: Aviation Legislation
Module 11: Turbine Aeroplane Aerodynamics, Structures & Systems
Module 15: Gas Turbine Engines
Module 17: Propellers
** if you want to work on helicopters, you will require MOD 12.
CATERGORY B1 LICENcE
What is it?
The CAT B1 licence is often referred to as the "mechanical licence". This is because obtaining a B1 allows you to perform maintenance on the aircraft's mechanical systems, engines and also perform basic avionics testing.
How do I obtain one?
Similar to the CAT A licence, for your B1 you will need your modules completed and experience. Most people progress from a CAT A license, onto a B1 or a B2 licence. However, you can also go from mechanic to B1. In order to obtain your B1, you require 5 years maintenance experience filled out in your CAP 741 logbook and all the modules listed below completed with exams passed at 75%. Once you have both of these, you can apply to the CAA for your B license.
Note: If partake in a Part-147 approved course, you can apply for your B1 Licence with two years of practical maintenance experience.
Which modules should I take?
Module 1: Mathematics
Module 2: Physics
Module 3: Electrical Fundamentals
Module 4: Electronic Fundamentals
Module 5: Digital Techniques & Electronic Instrument Systems
Module 6: Materials & Hardware
Module 7: Maintenance Practices
Module 8: Aerodynamics
Module 9: Human Factors
Module 10: Aviation Legislation
Module 11: Turbine Aeroplane Aerodynamics, Structures & Systems
Module 15: Gas Turbine Engines
Module 17: Propellers
** if you want to work on helicopters, you will require MOD 12.
CATEGORY B2 LICENcE
What is it?
The CAT B2 Licence is often referred to as the "avionics licence". If you love wiring and problem solving, then this one is for you! As a B2, you will be working on the aircraft's avionics and electrical systems. You are also able to perform tasks for mechanical systems that require avionics testing.
How do I obtain one?
In order to obtain your B2, you require 5 years maintenance experience filled out in your CAP 741 logbook and all the modules listed below completed with exams passed at 75%. Once you have both of these, you can apply to the CAA for your B2 licence.
Note: If partake in a Part-147 approved course, you can apply for your B1 Licence with two years of practical maintenance experience. !
Which modules should I take?
Module 1: Mathematics
Module 2: Physics
Module 3: Electrical Fundamentals
Module 4: Electronic Fundamentals
Module 5: Digital Techniques & Electronic Instrument Systems
Module 6: Materials & Hardware
Module 7: Maintenance Practices
Module 8: Aerodynamics
Module 9: Human Factors
Module 10: Aviation Legislation
Module 13: Aircraft Aerodynamics, Structures & Systems
Module 14: Propulsion
** if you want to work on helicopters, you will require MOD 12.
CATEGORY C LICENcE
What is it?
The CAT C licence is different to the rest of the licences you can obtain. This is because you do not have to be an engineer to have one! The CAT C licence allows you to sign of a check and release an aircraft into service.
How do I obtain one?
If you are going down the CAT B route, then in order to apply for a CAT C you must have held your B licence for 3 years and exercised your privileges. If you want to take the academic route, you require a degree and extended training courses before the CAA will grant you a C license.