Aviation Safety Inspectors
Overview
Introduction
The regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are enforced by aviation safety inspectors who usually specialize in general aviation or commercial aircraft. They inspect maintenance, manufacturing, repair, and operations procedures and also certify pilots, flight instructors, flight examiners, repair facilities, and aviation schools. They are responsible for the quality and safety of aircraft equipment and personnel. Aviation safety inspectors are classified under the general heading of transportation inspectors....
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Transportation inspectors had median annual earnings of $73,780 in May 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Salaries ranged from less than $28,870 to $123,980 or more annually. In September 2019, USAJobs.gov reported the salary range for an FAA aviation safety inspector employed in general aviation maintenance was $49,705 to $82,680. The FAA was offering higher starting salaries (fr...
Work Environment
The work environment of an aviation safety inspector varies, depending on his or her employment situation. They usually work both indoors and outdoors, depending on the location and subject of the inspection or investigation. Many aviation safety inspectors who work for the government, consulting firms, or who are self-employed spend much time in the field and therefore will travel a great deal...
Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor predicts average employment growth for transportation inspectors through 2028. Employment opportunities will be better for government aviation safety inspectors as the federal government seeks to improve aviation safety and address security threats. This was especially true following fatal accidents involving the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in October 2018 and March 2...
