Inspect aircraft, maintenance procedures, air navigational aids, air traffic controls, and communications equipment to ensure conformance with Federal safety regulations.
SOC: 53-6051.01
Common Job Titles
Aircraft Inspector
Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI)
Inspector
Quality Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and air navigation equipment for regulatory compliance against Federal Aviation Administration safety standards, working independently across multiple inspection sites.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize inspection findings, mechanical knowledge, and regulatory updates to prepare comprehensive written reports and documentation for enforcement actions.
Advanced
Hands-onPerform detailed physical inspections of aircraft structures and mechanical components using precision measurement tools, borescopes, and non-destructive testing equipment in field environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze technical documentation, maintenance records, and quality control data to identify deficiencies and non-compliance issues in aviation operations.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate specialized inspection equipment including eddy current testers, ultrasonic devices, and x-ray equipment following established protocols to detect structural defects and material anomalies.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret Federal Aviation Regulations and technical specifications to communicate compliance requirements to airline personnel, maintenance teams, and external stakeholders.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate public safety principles with regulatory enforcement responsibilities when resolving conflicts between operational demands and safety compliance requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess air traffic control systems, communications equipment, and navigational aids through systematic monitoring and testing to ensure operational airworthiness.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for continuous safety improvement and regulatory compliance by training aviation personnel and conducting educational outreach with industry stakeholders.
Proficient
KnowledgeDiagnose complex mechanical and electronic system malfunctions by applying engineering principles and troubleshooting methodologies under time-sensitive operational conditions.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Aviation Inspectors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,320
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,090. 25th percentile: U.S. $58,650. 50th percentile: U.S. $85,750. 75th percentile: U.S. $105,020. 90th percentile: U.S. $137,120. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$40,090
10% of workers earn the following or more
$137,120
Workers on average earn
$86,490
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
English Language4.6/5
Mechanical4.6/5
Public Safety and Security4.5/5
Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
Transportation4.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe InDesign
Adobe Photoshop
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
SAP software
SAS
Technology Skills
Aircraft regulation databases
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
Dassault Systemes CATIA
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Robotic workstation software
Technical Data Management System TDMS
Tools & Equipment
Aircraft Technical Publishers ATP Maintenance Planner
