What do you know about Aviation specialties?
Aviation-related disciplines are diverse and can be confusing for those interested in studying this type of science. Through this explanation, we will try to simplify them so that the differences become clear.
The basic and clear point is that aeronautical engineering is a distinct engineering discipline concerned with the design, development, and maintenance of aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and weapons systems. Engineers in this field focus on all stages of aircraft manufacturing, including structures, engines, control systems, and the design of the electronics and energy used.
, while aviation (aviation science) focuses on the piloting and flying of aircraft.
Details of the two specializations
Aeronautical Engineering (Aerospace / Aeronautical Engineering):
Studies how an airplane works from a physical and mechanical perspective.
Includes the study of aerodynamics, aircraft structures, control systems, and engines.
The engineer does not need to fly the aircraft at all, but his role ends when a safe aircraft is delivered and ready for service.
Aviation / Commercial Aviation (Aviation / Professional Pilot):
The study focuses on piloting and flying of aircraft, air laws and regulations, meteorology, air navigation, and crew management. It requires very high medical and physical fitness and periodic theoretical and practical tests. Accreditation is granted after completing a specific number of flight hours, depending on the program and the training agency.
We can differ civil (commercial/cargo) aviation or military aviation.
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
Do you have to be a graduate of the College of Aviation Engineering to become an aircraft maintenance engineer?
Answer: No, you can become a certified aircraft maintenance engineer without obtaining an aeronautical engineering degree. It is enough to be:
1. Mechanical Engineer (specializing in energy, mechatronics, automotive, production).
2. Electrical Engineer (specializing in communications, energy, mechatronics).
3. Aeronautical Engineer (if you are not, this does not prevent you from obtaining a license).
An aircraft maintenance engineer is an engineer licensed to work in aircraft maintenance according to specific specializations, such as:
1. Structure and engine.
2. Electricity and Electronics.
3. Engine repair.
4. Internal unit repair.
5. Equipment repair.
6. Aircraft structure repair.
Aviation Administration
The Aviation Management major aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and operate various airline and airport divisions. This specialization covers several areas, including operations management, logistics planning, safety management, public relations, and financial planning for companies operating in the aviation sector. The main objective of aviation management is to plan and supervise operational and administrative processes to ensure that things run smoothly and safely within airlines and airports.
Aviation management graduates can work in aviation management career paths in areas such as:
Operations Manager: Supervises daily operations at airports or airlines.
Aviation Safety Officer: Ensures that safety standards are applied on the ground and in the air.
Finance Manager in an Airline: Financial Planning and Cost Analysis.
Here's a quick comparison between the specializations:
|
Comparison |
Aeronautical Engineering |
Aviation (Commercial Pilot) |
Aircraft Maintenance Engineering |
Aviation Management |
|
Primary goal |
Innovate, design, and develop aircraft |
Fly the aircraft and transport passengers safely |
Aircraft maintenance |
To supervise administrative and planning operations Airports and airlines |
|
Workplace |
Engineering offices, factories, and research centers |
Aircraft cockpit (planetary) |
Airports, Aircraft Maintenance Hangars (Hangars) |
Airports and Airline companies |
|
Type of study |
Academic, including intensive mathematics and physics |
Practical training in flight and flight simulators |
|
Mechanical, electrical or aviation engineering |
An academy that combines aviation sciences and business administration |
|
Required Certificate |
Bachelor of Engineering (4-5 years) |
Accredited Flight License (such as FAA or EASA)
|
Bachelor of Engineering (4-5 years) |
Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management (3 to 4 years) |
- FAA (US Federal Aviation Authority).
- EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency).