AME In New Zealand
Aircraft Maintenance Engineering in New Zealand
Available Programmes
National Certificate
- •Level 3 - Related Technology
- •Duration: 36 weeks
- •For school-leavers/career-changers
Diploma Programme
- •Level 5 - EASA Approved
- •Duration: 46 weeks
- •Mechanical B1.1 or Avionic B2
Advanced Certificate
- •Level 5 - Full Programme
- •Duration: 2 years full-time
- •120 credits per year
National Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering
Level 3 - Related Technology • 36 Weeks
A first-year programme designed for school-leavers or career-changers wishing to enter the aircraft maintenance industry. Students receive a mix of theory and practical training covering both mechanical and avionic disciplines.
Programme Benefits
- Excellent grounding in aircraft systems
- Aviation maintenance practices foundation
- Practical hand skills development
- Ideal prerequisite for MRO apprenticeship
- Pathway to licence qualification
- Mix of mechanical and avionic disciplines
Core Course Modules
- Induction & Fire and Chemical Safety
- Conversion of Units
- Introduction to Avionics
- Mechanical Electrical 1 & 2 (DC/AC Systems)
- Airframe Inspection
- Aircraft Construction and Hydraulic Systems
- Fuel and Air Conditioning Systems
- Ice, Rain, Water/Waste & Emergency Systems
- Aviation Law and Publications
- Aircraft Servicing & Ground Handling
- Mathematics
Further Study Options
Apprenticeship or New Zealand Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering (European Regulations)
New Zealand Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering
Level 5 - EASA Approved Basic Training Course • 46 Weeks
Programme Details
Graduates of the National Certificate Programme may continue their studies towards a maintenance licence by undertaking the Diploma programme in either a mechanical or avionic strand.
When taken together, the National Certificate and Diploma form the EASA-approved Basic Training Programme.
Qualification Details
- Level 5 - EASA Approved
- Duration: 46 weeks
- Strand: Mechanical B1.1 or Avionic B2
- Prerequisite: National Certificate Level 3
- 24 months operational experience required
- Part 145 approved maintenance organization
Lateral Entry Option
Students who have completed AME from a recognized institute are eligible to get entry into the 1-year New Zealand Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering (European Regulations) Level 5 EASA-approved Basic Training Course.
Certificate in Advanced Aircraft Maintenance
2 Years Full-Time • Programme Level 5 • 120 Credits Per Year
Entry Requirements
- Age: 18 years minimum
- Educational Qualifications: HSC or Equivalent
- Minimum 60% marks required
- IELTS: 6 band overall
Programme Structure
- 15 or 30-credit courses
- Two years of full-time study
- 120 credits per year expected
- One Credit = 10 learning hours
- Includes classroom and self-directed learning
Included Certifications
- ✓Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Aircraft Maintenance)
- ✓National Certificate in Aircraft Servicing (Level 2)
- ✓National Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Related Technology) (Level 3)
- ✓National Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Level 4)
- ✓Strands in Aircraft Mechanical and Aircraft Powerplant
Recommended Preparation
Courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, electronics, computer science and technical drawing are helpful because they demonstrate many of the principles involved in aircraft operation. Knowledge of these principles is often necessary to make repairs. Courses that develop writing skills are also important because engineers are often required to submit reports.
Personal Qualities
Essential Attributes
- High degree of mechanical aptitude
- Self-motivated and hard working
- Enthusiastic problem solvers
- Ability to diagnose complex mechanical issues
- Agility for reaching and climbing
- Good level of physical fitness
- Careful and thorough work ethic
Modern Requirements
Advances in computer technology, aircraft systems, and materials have made engineers' jobs more highly technical.
- •Skills to troubleshoot complex aircraft systems
- •Continual updates on new technology
- •Knowledge of advances in aircraft technology
Recognition of Academic Credit
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Credit towards a qualification awarded following formal appraisal of prior learning including life experience, work experience, informal and/or formal education or training. An RPL fee is charged for each course.
Cross Credit
Application of academic credit of a course already completed as part of another qualification that covers the same learning outcomes at the same academic level. No fees apply to cross credit applications.