Understanding the EASA Part-66 License Framework
The EASA Part-66 license is the European Union Aviation Safety Agency's certification framework for aircraft maintenance engineers. It defines the qualifications required to certify the release to service of aircraft following maintenance. The license is recognized across all EASA member states and is widely accepted internationally.
There are three primary license categories under Part-66: Category B1 (mechanical), Category B2 (avionics), and Category C (certifying staff for base maintenance). Each category authorizes different scopes of certification and requires distinct knowledge, experience, and examination pathways.
Category B1: Mechanical Maintenance Engineer
The B1 license covers the mechanical aspects of aircraft maintenance, including aircraft structure, powerplant, mechanical and electrical systems, and associated maintenance tasks. B1 licensed engineers are authorized to certify work on engines, landing gear, hydraulics, pneumatics, and airframe structures.
B1 is further subdivided into subcategories such as B1.1 (aeroplanes with turbine engines), B1.2 (aeroplanes with piston engines), B1.3 (helicopters with turbine engines), and B1.4 (helicopters with piston engines). Each subcategory requires type-specific training and examination on the relevant aircraft.
Category B2: Avionics Maintenance Engineer
The B2 license focuses on avionics and electrical systems, including radio navigation, communication systems, autopilot, instruments, and electrical power distribution. B2 engineers work alongside B1 engineers to ensure the complete aircraft is certified for return to service.
Many experienced engineers pursue both B1 and B2 licenses to expand their certification authority and increase their marketability in the aviation job market. Dual-licensed engineers are particularly valuable for AOG response situations where a single engineer may need to address both mechanical and avionics issues.
Category C: Certifying Staff for Base Maintenance
The Category C license authorizes the release to service of an aircraft following base maintenance. This is typically held by senior engineers who oversee comprehensive maintenance checks such as C-checks and D-checks. Category C certifiers bear significant responsibility as they verify that all maintenance performed during the check meets regulatory standards.
To obtain a Category C license, candidates typically need several years of experience as a B1 or B2 certifier, along with additional training in maintenance management and quality assurance.
Experience Requirements and the Logbook
One of the most critical requirements for obtaining an EASA Part-66 license is documented maintenance experience. Candidates must maintain a detailed logbook recording all maintenance tasks performed, the aircraft types worked on, and the specific systems involved.
The experience requirements vary by license category. For example, a B1.1 license typically requires a minimum of 5 years of documented maintenance experience, or 3 years if the candidate has completed an approved Part-147 training program. The experience must cover a range of maintenance tasks across different aircraft systems and include both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
The Examination Process
EASA Part-66 examinations are administered by approved Part-147 training organizations or national aviation authorities. The examination modules cover topics including mathematics, physics, electrical fundamentals, electronic fundamentals, materials and hardware, maintenance practices, and aircraft-specific type training.
Each module examination must be passed with a minimum score of 75%. Some modules include both multiple-choice and essay-style questions. Once all required modules are passed and the experience requirement is met, the candidate can apply for the license through their national aviation authority.
- Module 1: Mathematics
- Module 2: Physics
- Module 3: Electrical Fundamentals
- Module 4: Electronic Fundamentals
- Module 5: Digital Techniques and Electronic Instrument Systems
- Module 6: Materials and Hardware
- Module 7: Maintenance Practices
- Module 8: Basic Aerodynamics
- Module 9: Human Factors
- Module 10: Aviation Legislation
- Modules 11-17: Aircraft Type-Specific Training
Career Opportunities for Licensed AMEs
Holding an EASA Part-66 license opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities across the global aviation industry. Licensed engineers are in high demand at airlines, MRO facilities, aircraft manufacturers, leasing companies, and aviation staffing agencies.
At Click Aviation Consulting, we actively recruit Transport Canada AME, EASA Part-66, and FAA A&P licensed engineers for both permanent positions and contract assignments worldwide. Our recruitment team understands the technical nuances of each license category and matches engineers to roles that align with their type ratings and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.How long does it take to get an EASA Part-66 license?
If you complete an approved Part-147 training program, you can obtain your license in approximately 3 years, including the required experience. Without formal training, the experience requirement extends to 5 years of documented maintenance work.
Q.Can I convert my FAA A&P license to EASA Part-66?
Yes, there is a conversion pathway for FAA A&P holders. You will need to complete additional EASA-specific modules (particularly Module 10 on Aviation Legislation and Module 9 on Human Factors) and demonstrate experience on EASA-registered aircraft.
Q.Is the EASA Part-66 license valid outside Europe?
The EASA Part-66 license is widely recognized internationally, including in the Middle East, Asia, and parts of Africa. However, some countries may require additional local validation or conversion to their national licensing system.
