What do they do?

An aeronautical engineer is involved in design, manufacture, testing and engineering. S/he updates components, and ensures that all documents concerning regulator y compliance are in place. However, it is licensed aircraft maintenance engineers and not aeronautical engineers who are authorised to inspect, maintain and certify aircraft.

Skills Needed

• High levels of patience and perseverance required to work long hours
• One should have a love for flying machines
• Good communication skills
• One should be a hard worker

How do I get there?

Take science with physics, chemistry and maths (PCM) in Class 12. Then go for a degree/diploma programme in aeronautical engineering. If you cannot join a conventional college, take ASIe’s Associate Membership Examination, conducted every six months, leading to a qualification equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering. Aspirants should have passed Class 12 with 50 per cent marks each in PCM. Of the 4,000 enrolees taking the exam, a hundred make the grade. ASI gives meritorious candidates a monthly stipend of R3,000 while they get on-the-job training

Pros & Cons about this career