A&P Mechanic Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
The A&P mechanic interview isn't like a corporate office interview. They're not going to ask about your "five-year plan" or your "greatest weakness." They're going to ask technical questions, safety scenarios, and whether you can actually turn wrenches.
Here's what to expect and how to prepare.
Types of Interview Questions
Mechanic interviews typically cover three categories:
1. Technical Knowledge Questions
These verify you actually know the trade:
Q: What is the difference between an Airworthiness Directive (AD) and a Service Bulletin (SB)? A: An AD is mandatory — it's issued by the FAA and must be complied with within the specified timeframe. An SB is recommended by the manufacturer but not required unless referenced by an AD or the operator's maintenance program.
Q: Walk me through a 100-hour/annual inspection. A: Reference 14 CFR §43 Appendix D. The inspection covers the fuselage and hull, cabin/cockpit, engine and nacelle, landing gear, wings and center section, empennage, propeller, radio, and miscellaneous items. Each area has specific inspection requirements outlined in the regulation.
Q: What is the purpose of safety wiring? A: Safety wiring prevents hardware (bolts, nuts, turnbuckles) from loosening due to vibration. The wire is installed so that tension on the wire opposes loosening. It's a critical secondary retention method on safety-critical fasteners.
Q: What is the minimum edge distance for a rivet? A: Two times the rivet diameter (2D) from the edge. For example, a 1/8" rivet requires a minimum edge distance of 1/4".
Q: Explain the difference between reciprocating and turbine engines.
Q: How do you determine the correct torque value for a bolt?
Q: What types of corrosion might you find on an aircraft, and how do you treat them?
2. Safety and Judgment Questions
These assess whether you'll make safe decisions:
Q: You find a crack during your inspection that isn't documented anywhere. What do you do? A: Document it, notify the lead/supervisor, and do not return the aircraft to service until the discrepancy is resolved per the maintenance manual and any applicable ADs. If the crack is in a critical structural area, follow the SRM (Structural Repair Manual) and consult engineering if necessary.
Q: A pilot pressures you to sign off a discrepancy so the aircraft can depart on time. How do you respond? A: Safety is non-negotiable. If the discrepancy affects airworthiness, the aircraft doesn't fly. I would explain the situation, document it, and involve my supervisor. Schedule pressure never overrides safety.
Q: You make a mistake during maintenance — maybe you overtorque a fitting or damage a component. What do you do? A: Report it immediately. Document the discrepancy, notify the lead, and take corrective action per the maintenance manual. Hiding mistakes in aviation gets people killed.
3. Behavioral/Experience Questions
These assess your work habits and culture fit:
Q: Tell me about a time you had to troubleshoot a difficult problem.
Q: Describe your experience with [specific aircraft type or system].
Q: How do you handle working in a team where not everyone pulls their weight?
Q: What motivates you in your work as a mechanic?
How to Prepare
Preparation Checklist:
- Review 14 CFR Part 43 (maintenance regulations)
- Review 14 CFR Part 65 (mechanic certificate requirements)
- Refresh on AC 43.13-1B (acceptable methods, techniques, practices)
- Review the aircraft maintenance manuals for types you've worked on
- Prepare 3–5 stories about challenging maintenance situations you've resolved
- Research the company — their fleet, clients, and values
- Dress professionally (clean, pressed clothes — not a suit, but not ramp clothes either)
- Bring copies of your A&P certificate, IA (if applicable), and resume
What to Wear
Mechanic interviews are typically business casual. Clean khakis or dark pants, a collared shirt, and clean shoes. You're not wearing a suit — this isn't a boardroom — but you need to look professional and clean. Your hands might be calloused, but they should be clean.
Interview Red Flags (From the Employer's Perspective)
| Red Flag | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Can't answer basic Part 43 questions | Training deficiency |
| Dismissive about safety procedures | Unacceptable risk |
| Negative about previous employers | Poor attitude |
| No specific aircraft/engine experience to discuss | Lack of hands-on background |
| Arrives late or unprofessionally dressed | Reliability concern |
| Unable to describe troubleshooting approach | Problem-solving weakness |
Questions YOU Should Ask the Interviewer
- What aircraft types does this facility maintain?
- What does a typical shift look like?
- Is there overtime available, and how is it distributed?
- What training and professional development do you offer?
- What's the career advancement path for mechanics here?
- What maintenance tracking system do you use?
- What's the tool policy — do mechanics provide their own?
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