Part-66 licence: how do you become an aircraft maintenance technician?

A common European framework

Aircraft maintenance in the European Union is governed by Regulation (EU) No 1321/2014, under the oversight of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Its Annex III, known as Part-66, defines the Aircraft Maintenance Licence (AML).

The main categories

• A: simple line maintenance tasks and related certification.
• B1: mechanical (structures, engines, mechanical and electrical systems).
• B2: avionics and electrical systems.
• B3: non-pressurised piston aeroplanes with a maximum take-off mass of 2,000 kg or less.
• C: base maintenance certification for the complete aircraft.

Specific categories (B2L, L) also cover light aviation.

Training and experience

Candidates must pass basic knowledge examinations covering defined modules (mathematics, physics, electrical fundamentals, aerodynamics, human factors, legislation…) and demonstrate practical experience. The required experience is reduced when training is completed at an approved Part-147 organisation, whose course is approved by the competent authority.

Key takeaways

• A Part-66 licence is recognised in all states applying EASA rules.
• The category determines the scope of certification privileges.
• Training at a Part-147 organisation shortens the required experience.