Advancing aviation maintenance skills pathways

The Aviation maintenance skills pathways project was developed in response to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority’s (CASA) introduction of a modular licence option to offer flexibility and the ability to gradually build qualifications over time. This approach holds promise for the general aviation sector, which is facing unique challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled engineers. 

This modular licence aims to increase the number of licensed engineers, particularly in general aviation, where demand for skilled maintenance professionals is growing. To realise the full potential of this new licence, this project identified that the MEA Training Package needs adaptation to align with the modular approach.

Through extensive consultation, industry representatives identified three key features they wanted to see incorporated:

  • Aligned training requirements: ensuring that training modules align with the specific competencies needed for the modular licence.
  • Dedicated qualification pathways: creating clear, progressive qualification pathways that allow engineers to build their modular licences over time.
  • Clear implementation guidance: providing explicit, actionable guidance for implementing the new qualification pathways within the VET system.

Proposed solutions

The final report recommends four key options for change to align the MEA Training Package with CASA’s requirements and address the gaps identified. This will pave the way for a more efficient, flexible and scalable pathway for aircraft maintenance engineers and enhance the overall capacity of the General Aviation sector to train and license engineers.

Read the final report

The Manufacturing Alliance will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders—including unions, associations, and government organisations—to progress the proposed changes through the VET system.

The Federal Government’s Aviation White Paper highlights the Manufacturing Alliance as a key player in addressing the skills challenges for aircraft maintenance engineers. By implementing these changes along with workforce planning, we aim to ensure that the general aviation sector has access to a well-trained, qualified workforce who can support the industry’s ongoing growth and safety standards.