1.The role of the Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
Aircraft maintenance vs annual technical car inspection
Aircraft maintenance is akin to the annual technical inspection required for cars, albeit with more stringent regulations and complexities. While cars undergo maintenance and inspections typically once a year to ensure safety and performance, aircraft maintenance is governed by detailed European and national legislation. These regulations mandate that before each flight, every essential component undergoes meticulous checks, regardless of whether any issues have been identified.
Each aircraft follows a meticulously prepared maintenance schedule created by the manufacturer, encompassing every part, engine, and airframe parameter. Airlines are legally obligated to have their fleets maintained by approved aircraft maintenance organizations, overseen in the Netherlands by the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (IL&T).
Strict rules
The Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is a certified aviation technician under the Dutch Aviation Act (Luchtvaartwet) and international regulations. Known as “GWKs” in the Netherlands, these ground engineers hold a European Aircraft Maintenance License (AML), issued by the Dutch KIWA Register on behalf of the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management. This license is nearly identical to the “Commercial Pilot License” required for Dutch airline pilots.
Each aircraft type requires a separate authorization. A ground engineer can only certify maintenance and release the aircraft for service after successfully completing all relevant courses, on-the-job training, and practical training for that specific aircraft type.
Crucial role in flight safety
Ground engineers authorize an aircraft for service after maintenance has been completed. They are responsible and liable for overseeing all maintenance activities, including those performed by non-licensed personnel like mechanics. Regulators position ground engineers as the “last line of defense” to minimize aviation safety risks. Only the ground engineer has the authority to determine if the aircraft is fit to return to service after maintenance.
Working conditions
Maintaining aircraft is a genuine passion for aeronautical technicians. Working on a machine that lifts 250 tons with hundreds of passengers and complex engines delivering immense power is a unique and challenging job.
However, the working conditions for mechanics and GWKs can be tough. Since commercial flights operate 24/7, maintenance is performed in continuous shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays. Some tasks are done in confined spaces or hard-to-reach areas, and line maintenance on the platform requires working in all weather conditions.
Despite these challenges, thousands of aviation technicians in the Netherlands pursue their profession with great satisfaction. Every day, mechanics and ground engineers ensure that millions of passengers, as well as their colleagues in the cockpit and cabin, can board with confidence and enjoy a safe flight.
Lengthy training course
To become a GWK, one must complete a basic technical education, such as an Aircraft Mechanics course. This includes obtaining the practical and theoretical Part 66 modules required for approving and ensuring maintenance on an aircraft. The EU highly regulates the content and examination of these modules. In the Netherlands, only two training institutes, located in Hoogerheide and Maastricht, are certified to conduct these examinations.
Upon passing the required exams, the student receives a basic AML and can now be called an “aircraft mechanic,” eligible to apply for positions in the technical department of an airline or an aircraft maintenance company.
This initial job marks the beginning of further training to obtain the full AML and progress to the position of GWK with certification privileges. Achieving professional maturity as a ground engineer, with demonstrable experience on a specific aircraft type or helicopter, typically takes 7 to 12 years.
Regular exams and training are necessary to maintain the validity of the aircraft type authorization.
Personal liability
The special privilege of releasing an aircraft for service is highlighted by the fact that GWKs can be held personally liable if they make mistakes in their work. In severe cases, the Public Prosecution Service may even initiate criminal prosecution. This responsibility cannot be transferred to the employer or covered by an insurance company.
2. Shortage
Shortage of new mechanics
The enthusiasm for technical careers among young people has been declining for years, as evidenced by various surveys and studies. This trend is evident in aviation, where the influx of new mechanics mirrors the low interest seen in other technical industries.
Furthermore, numerous vacancies and opportunities for young technicians entering the labor market have led to increased competition. Consequently, many new employees leave aviation within their first five years. As a result, these new mechanics do not stay long enough to advance to the position of ground engineer.
This situation threatens the continuity of flight operations. In the near future, the decreasing number of GWKs due to retirements will be compounded by the lack of mechanics progressing to their licensed career phase. With the combined overall number of mechanics and GWKs in decline, there will eventually be insufficient personnel to meet the demands of aviation maintenance.
Minimum staffing levels are at risk
Similar to other sectors, the aging population is contributing to the increasing shortage of aviation technicians. In the coming years, many experienced colleagues will retire, taking with them their invaluable knowledge and expertise.
For airlines and maintenance companies, these developments pose a significant challenge in maintaining the minimum staffing levels required for ongoing flight operations.
These issues are not concerns for the distant future. Without intervention, by 2025, the shortage of aviation technicians could already lead to severe disruptions in airline flight schedules.
Additionally, the scarcity of aviation technicians is not confined to the Netherlands. This shortage is anticipated to be a global problem in the coming years, as highlighted in industry publications.
Consequences of flight reduction at Schiphol
The Dutch government plans to reduce Schiphol’s flight numbers by 12% to 440,000 from 2023, aiming to mitigate noise and environmental impacts on local residents. The expectation is that flight numbers could rebound if quieter and more environmentally friendly aircraft are adopted.
However, even if this plan, with its legal complexities, is implemented, its short-term impact on the shortage of aviation technicians will be limited. Growth in aviation is projected to remain robust, with quieter aircraft already in transit. The impending shortage of technicians during a period of reduced flight numbers may temporarily mask the crisis due to the lengthy training required. Therefore, addressing the urgent need to resolve the shortage of aviation technicians remains crucial, irrespective of any flight reductions at Schiphol.
3. JobsReach Aviation
JobsReach Aviation offers an innovative approach to connecting aviation professionals globally, spreading opportunities, and addressing resource shortages in the aviation industry.
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𝐉𝐨𝐛𝐬𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐀𝐯𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 connects employers directly with talent, eliminating intermediaries and boosting 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐞𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐛𝐲 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝟗𝟎%. By utilizing multiple social media platforms and diverse channels, we provide candidates with a broader range of opportunities. Unlike other job platforms that target only 10-15% of the candidate pool, JobsReach aims to 𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝟗𝟓% 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 by reaching them on the channels where they are most active and accessible, finding the best among those available.
4.Possible solutions
The “Labour market shortage technicians” report offers several recommendations for addressing the shortage of technicians, which are deemed significant and promising. Additionally, You can also explore the Essential Information to Know Before Becoming an Aircraft Mechanic.
Enhance innovation in labor-saving processes:
Given the rapid growth in supply relative to the demand for technicians in current demographic, economic, and political conditions, the optimal approach is to moderate the demand for technicians. This involves prioritizing innovations and innovation subsidies focused on labor-saving processes, complemented by social innovation. This strategic shift aims to deploy labor more intelligently while maintaining productivity with fewer technicians.
Aviation regulations are highly stringent, leaving little room for maintenance organizations to deviate from established standards.
Innovations like drone usage for visual inspections still require extensive research to ensure their safety and suitability for aviation applications.
Furthermore, there is an opportunity for maintenance organizations to enhance the efficiency of work processes and job roles through further optimization.
Promote a cultural shift towards embracing technology:
The technology sector predominantly employs older men in full-time roles, which limits flexibility in working hours and discourages many young people and women from pursuing careers in this field. Introducing a cultural shift that promotes diversity and offers more flexible working arrangements could help attract a broader range of technicians. This change is crucial for increasing the sector’s workforce.
Airlines and maintenance companies should explore different scheduling options beyond traditional rosters. For instance, adopting varied service combinations like those used by Air France Industries could be beneficial. Additionally, airlines can invest in aircraft capacity that allows maintenance to be conducted during daytime services instead of overnight shifts.
Generate greater enthusiasm for technology from a young age:
The number of young people pursuing technical training at the master’s level is increasing, while enrollment at the MBO level is declining. Additionally, many young students leave technical education during their studies, particularly at the MBO level. Several stakeholders suggest that insufficient exposure to technology in education, starting from primary school, contributes to this trend. Increasing early and frequent exposure to technology can lead more young people to choose technical education and careers.
Several Dutch technical companies, like ASML, have initiated programs to introduce primary school students to technology through guest lectures. This approach could also be beneficial for aviation technology, including engaging secondary school students.
Airlines can play a significant role by inviting students to visit hangars and observe aircraft maintenance operations. Consideration could also be given to providing part of the training through company schools, enhancing students’ engagement with the aviation industry.
To encourage greater participation, offering employment contracts at the start of company courses and traineeships could provide assurance to aspiring aviation technicians. Here’s a guide on how to effectively hire an aircraft mechanic.
Increase investment in the matching and training of individuals entering from related fields:
Expanding the scope of lateral entry beyond traditional credentials and job experience to encompass all relevant skills and competencies can significantly broaden the pool of potential candidates entering the technology sector. However, due to the scarcity of individuals possessing the mandatory AML certification (approximately 1,500 in the Netherlands) and the extensive experience required for GWK positions, we see limited potential for lateral entry to alleviate the shortage of aeronautical technicians.
Establishing a collaborative network for technical training initiatives:
In the study, multiple stakeholders suggest that creating collaborative regional networks (network organizations) could enhance technical training by pooling expertise, funding, and organizational resources. This approach allows for economies of scale, enabling smaller technology firms to offer more comprehensive training programs for technicians.
Ensure that primary employment conditions are attractive:
HBO graduates in technology have seen a stronger growth in hourly wages compared to MBO graduates. Therefore, it is advisable, where feasible, to consider enhancing primary employment conditions, particularly for MBO graduates. This could potentially increase the supply of MBO students, boost lateral enrollment, and reduce attrition, thereby partially addressing the high demand for MBO graduates.
Based on our analysis of current technical job openings, we have identified a shortfall of up to 20% in entry-level salaries at KLM Group technical departments compared to today’s technical labor market standards. This shortfall increases to 25% or more when comparing with end-of-scale salaries. JobsReach Aviation takes responsibility for connecting aviation professionals globally, spreading opportunities, and addressing resource shortages in the aviation industry.
We also emphasize the importance of fringe benefits as critical tools for both recruitment and retention. For instance, expanding reimbursements from sustainable employability budgets (e.g., for sports memberships and health programs), offering flexible leave options, and increasing employer-sponsored training opportunities (even if not job-related) are strategies that can enhance attractiveness. Airlines could also extend employee discounts on airline tickets to further incentivize and retain talent.
Providing employees and applicants with clearer insights into career advancement opportunities within the company is crucial. Solutions to facilitate easier transitions from rotating shifts to day shifts during one’s career should be explored, considering that the loss of shift work allowances currently poses a significant barrier to internal mobility.
In today’s labor market, MBO students with technical education experience greater salary development compared to HBO students (Telegraaf article). Promoting this advantage more effectively among high school students could further bolster interest in technical careers.
Frame the labor shortages in technology within a societal context:
The challenging labor market for technicians poses a significant threat to the quality and continuity of technical sectors in the Netherlands. Concurrently, multiple sectors of the economy are grappling with tight labor conditions. Increased competition among sectors in addressing labor shortages diminishes the effectiveness of solutions in the long term. Therefore, efforts to alleviate the shortage of technicians must be integrated with strategies aimed at addressing shortages in education, healthcare, law enforcement, food supply, and other sectors.
5. Conclusion
JobsReach Aviation reaches the right talents with relevant opportunities. JobsReach Aviation unites aviation professionals globally, offering a unique platform to discover opportunities and facilitating career advancement. It’s your 𝐨𝐧𝐞-𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 destination for finding opportunities around you.
JobsReach Aviation is an effective approach for aircraft mechanics to find employers who appreciate their skills and expertise. You can also explore tips for securing quality employment as an aircraft mechanic.
