Aircraft Component Maintenance Mechanic

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Aircraft Component Maintenance Mechanic. An Aircraft Component Maintenance Mechanic performs Rotary and Fixed Wing aircraft maintenance task inspections, installations, diagnosis/tests and repairs such as wheels and brakes.

The current SAQA registered qualification (48861: National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul Level 4, 180 Credits) currently being used in industry to train Apprentices to become an Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic does not meet the requirements for a trade as per the new Draft Trade Test Regulations (March 2013). This qualification was derived from the Occupational Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic to meet the international requirements related to the maintenance of aircraft which is a priority to ensure continued use of South African airports by international airlines. Compliance with international standards, norms, and training through bodies like the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) must, therefore, be ensured. Based on local and international aviation prescripts no maintenance repair or overhaul activities on the structural, mechanical and relevant electronic elements of specified aircraft may be executed by a person, not in possession of a valid aircraft maintenance engineering license. This qualification will, therefore, provide further opportunities to obtain a South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) formal type-rating. This qualification could also lead to a career progression towards a National Diploma in Aircraft Mechanics. Other qualifications derived from the Occupational Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic are: • Flight Line Operator. • Engine Workshop Maintenance Mechanic. • Propeller Workshop Maintenance Mechanic. These derived qualifications will allow for recognised training in specialist areas and to allow for career progression. This qualification along with the associated derived qualifications in specialisation areas will mainly benefit people who have been working within the Aviation industry to obtain formal international recognition and enhance career progression. The competencies contained in this qualification are essential for social and economic transformation, empowerment and upliftment within the aviation environment, whilst simultaneously improving the skills base of the country. On completion of the qualification or derived qualification qualified learners will be able to gain access to job opportunities in the Aviation sector and Air Force both locally and internationally.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: Level 4 with Mathematics, Science Communication. Or N3 with Mathematics, Science and related subject for the trade.

1: Inspect a mechanical Rotary Wing systems and related components. 2: Inspect the mechanical Fixed Wing systems and related components.