engineering
Soldier
Regular

Aircraft Technician

As an Aircraft Technician, you’ll make sure every Army helicopter and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle is ready for action. From routine checks to emergency repairs, you’ll use expert training to maintain vital systems and support pilots wherever they’re deployed. Travel the world, gain industry-recognised qualifications, and play a hands-on role in keeping the Army airborne.

Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

Starting salary
£27,282
Age range
16 - 35

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Role details

Everything you need to know about the role, requirements and what you’ll gain.

Entry Requirements

Age

You can join between the ages of 16 – 35. At the time of your application you will need to be between 15 years & 7 months old and 35 years & 6 months old.

You can start your training as a Junior Soldier at the Army Foundation College from the age of 16 years and 6 months.

Fitness

Mid Thigh Pull 50kg
Medicine Ball Throw 3m
2km run 11 min 30 sec

More information about the fitness test

Education

GCSE Grade A*-B/9-6, or Scottish National 5 (A-B), in Science and Maths.
GCSE Grade A*-C/9-5, or Scottish National 5 (A-C), in English.

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About the Role

Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

The Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) are responsible for keeping the Army's equipment working and ready to use.

Aircraft Technicians are responsible for the repair and maintenance of all Army aircraft, from Apache Helicopters to unmanned aerial vehicles. They work on all mechanical and electrical systems including the airframe, engines and control systems. You will be exceptionally well trained with further opportunity along your career pathway for higher education and professional recognition. Aircraft Technicians have a high level of responsibility and are promoted rapidly to reflect it. You'll travel all over the world with your unit, servicing Army aircraft on operations and exercises, earning highly valuable civilian qualifications, and enjoying sport and Adventurous Training.

Key responsibilities

Maintain technically challenging aircraft and some avionic systems
Prepare the aircraft for flight
Take responsibility for flight safety
Sustain high standards of engineering integrity in a demanding environment
Serve around the world, wherever the British Army has air systems
Promote to Lance Corporal (LCpl) on successful completion of your your Initial Trade Training (ITT)
Specialise as a civilian accredited aircraft technician on promotion to Sergeant (Sgt)

Training

Step 1
Your initial military training teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle.

If you join as a Junior Soldier (under 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the basic military training (short) course at Harrogate.
If you join as a Regular Soldier (over 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the regular adult basic training.

Step 2
Next you'll head to MOD Lyneham, Wiltshire, to start your technical training. Over the next 44 weeks, you learn how to fix aircraft including some electrical, hydraulic, gearbox and gas turbine systems. You may also learn to drive military vehicles and gain licences.

Pay and Benefits

Qualifications You'll Earn

Your application journey

From application to training, you can expect a timeline of around 3-6 months.

Timelines can vary based on individual circumstances.

1.1-2 days

Online application

Complete your application form online. You'll need details about your education, work history, and why you want to join the Army.

Real Army Life

Ask a Soldier

Get honest answers from real soldiers in the roles you’re interested in. Read previously asked questions or ask your own.

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What is it like to be an Aircraft Technician?

What’s it like living on a base day to day?

It’s similar to a normal working day, with gyms, food halls and social spaces available on camp.

Living on a base gives you a good balance of structure and normal day‑to‑day life. Your days usually have a routine, like training, work and meals, but there’s also plenty of time to relax. You live close to the people you work with, so there’s a strong sense of community. In the evenings or downtime, you might go to the gym, watch TV, play sport or just catch up with mates. Everything you need is close by, which makes settling in much easier.

Holly J

Royal Adjutant's Corps

How supported are you when you’re new?

How much of the job is physical vs learning?

What is basic training like?

Phase 1 training will gradually push your limits, both physically and mentally, and you learn a lot about what you’re capable of.

Basic training is where you learn the fundamentals of Army life, from fitness and discipline to teamwork and core soldiering skills. It’s challenging, but you’re supported every step of the way as you build confidence and resilience.

Tori C

Royal Army Medical Services