What you will study
Alongside academic modules, work-based modules provide you with hands-on experience of aircraft component and equipment replacement, inspection, condition monitoring, and fault diagnosis and rectification. You will gain an understanding of the work environment and legal requirements relating to the operation of commercial aircraft.
The course covers all the knowledge requirements specified in the EASA category B1.1 aircraft maintenance engineering licence syllabus (Part 66). It introduces you to practical and maintenance skills, and provides you with opportunities to practise and develop these skills.
This course is designed specifically to set you on the path for a career as an aircraft maintenance engineer in the aviation industry. It will give you the confidence and skills necessary to become a maintenance manager of the future.
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list as these could change before your year of entry.
Year 1
In Year 1 you will also gain higher education study skills and other interpersonal skills necessary for completion of the course.
Core modules
Mathematics and Physics for Practitioner Engineers
30 credits
This module covers all of the topics in the EASA part-66 Mathematics and Physics syllabuses and provides knowledge and understanding sufficient for you to take the associated EASA category B licence examinations that must be passed in order to become an aircraft maintenance engineer. It also extends the mathematics knowledge to a level sufficient to underpin key engineering principles and prepare students for the mathematics in the level 6 modules of the programme and further study. To become a design engineer you would need to complete some additional mathematics and science study at level 5.
Electrical Engineering Fundamentals
30 credits
This module comprises both theory and practical. The theory is delivered in a series of lectures and the practical involves you completing a series of laboratory sessions designed to reinforce the knowledge gained in the lectures.
The module starts by looking at electrical charge and how electricity is created, before moving on to look at passive components such as resistors, capacitors and inductors and how they behave in simple direct current (d.c.) circuits. The study of inductors leads nicely into the topic of magnetism and then onto d.c. generators and motors which starts by exploring the fundamental principles of machines before moving on to look at various basic types.
The second part of the module focuses on alternating current (a.c.). Firstly passive components are revisited, this time in basic a.c. circuits. The relationship between: resistance, reactance and impedance; voltage, current and impedance; and reactive, true and apparent power are examined in the class and tutorial sessions whilst simple circuits containing combinations of resistors, capacitors and inductors are explored in the laboratory. Induction is then revisited for transformers before the final section which covers the theoretical aspects of a.c. generators and motors before looking at typical aircraft a.c. machines.
Aerodynamics and Aircraft Electronic and Digital Systems
30 credits
This module will initially establish the need for a standard atmosphere (ISA) and describe the properties of the atmosphere as applicable to aerodynamics. The module will investigate the airflow around a body and the generation of lift and drag. Relevant terminology and formulae will be introduced and calculations performed. The module will go on to discuss lift augmentation and stability; specifying design features affecting these. High speed flight is then discussed, including design features associated with critical Mach number. The module will conclude with a look at the characteristics of aerofoils at all speeds of flight.
This double module is a combination of electronics, digital techniques and aircraft digital systems. The electronics section starts by looking at the building block of semiconductor components: the P-N junction, this is followed by a look at the characteristics, uses, and basic testing of diodes and transistors. Basic logic gates are then introduced, and combinational and sequential logic circuits examined. Op amps are studied and basic AtoD and DtoA conversion techniques investigated. The section concludes with look at the transducers and synchronous data transmission systems found on aircraft. In digital techniques, computer terminology and the basic layout and operation of computers is studied before looking at the use of computer technology in aircraft. Aircraft specific databus systems and displays techniques are also studied prior to moving onto the final section of the module: digital systems. The last section involves investigating the layout, operation and built-in-test equipment (BITE) of a selection of electronic and digital aircraft systems including: Electronic Flight Instrument systems (EFIS), Electronic Centralised Aircraft Monitor system (ECAM), Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System (EICAS), Fly-by-Wire (FBW), Inertial Reference Systems (IRS), and the Flight Management System (FMS).
Higher Education Study Skills and Personal Development
30 credits
This module is designed to help you transition from sixth-form and/or Further Education (FE) study to Higher Education (HE) study and to prepare you for the learning that lies ahead. The two learning environments, and what is expected of you in those two environments, are very different, and this needs to be clearly understood by you if you are to obtain the maximum benefit from your HE course of study.
The module will explore the differences between the two environments, explain the professional skills and personal attributes needed to successfully complete an HE programme and lay foundations for second and third year modules and life after completion of the programme; be that employment or further study. Basic research, report writing, referencing, use of IT, maintaining digital records, the fundamentals of working in teams, maintaining a study journal, understanding and using feedback, reflection and professional development will all be covered in scheduled learning sessions that will comprise a mixture of presentation, lecture, discussion, workshop and tutorial. You will be expected to devote time outside the schedule sessions to prepare for discussions and workshops, to maintain a study journal and to produce a portfolio of evidence. The journal and the portfolio will be used for both summative and formative assessment of the module and will provide a record and examples of work that can be used at personal tutor meetings.
The skills gained in this module will be further developed and extended in AE5004 Professional Practice for Aircraft Engineers which is delivered in the second year of the programme.
Year 2
Core modules
Aircraft Material, Hardware and Maintenance
30 credits
This module comprises two parts; the first looks at aircraft materials and hardware and the second covers the theoretical aspects of aircraft maintenance practices. The practical work associated with this module takes place in other modules in the programme.
Part one of this module starts by exploring the characteristics, properties, applications and typical heat treatments of aircraft ferrous and non-ferrous metals before looking at the properties, characteristics and how to repair typical aircraft composite and non-metallic materials. The content of this element extends beyond the EASA syllabus and there will be a greater emphasis on the mechanical and physical characteristics of material, their time dependent behaviour, behaviour under various loading conditions and features related to the service environment. The module also looks at the selection and application of different types of materials in engineering applications. Where appropriate, state-of-the-art problems will be discussed to illustrate the structure-property relationship in materials. The final topic of this part covers aircraft hardware, here the properties, characteristics, uses and identification of fasteners, pipes, bearings, transmission systems, flying controls, and aircraft electrical cables and connectors are examined.
Part two provides students with the knowledge required to select and use the tools, materials, drawings and equipment necessary to perform aircraft maintenance tasks. It also provides them with the knowledge needed to enable them to work effectively and safely in an aircraft maintenance environment. Topics covered include: tools and equipment and their use, aircraft drawings and manuals, inspection and tolerance checking, electrical measurements, disassembly and reassembly, aircraft weighing and weight and balance calculations, aircraft handling; corrosion prevention removal, assessment and re-protection, non-destructive testing, aircraft storage and preservation and finally aircraft maintenance procedures.
Aircraft and their Systems
30 credits
This module first discusses the operation and effect of primary and secondary aircraft flight controls and aerodynamic devices before moving on to an in depth study of the basic construction of airframes which includes a look at the methods employed to check the accuracy of construction. This is followed by a detailed investigation of all of the aircraft mechanical and electrical systems including but not limited to: electrical power generation and management, flight controls, landing gear, fuel, hydraulic, pneumatics, ice and rain protection, pressurisation, air conditioning, fire and smoke, waste and water, and lighting.
In each case, the depth of study will be sufficient to enable you to describe the layout of each system, explain its operation and interaction with other aircraft systems and, given a period of time to gain some practical experience, determine the serviceability of the system and investigate and identify basic faults in it. Practical maintenance experience, fault-finding techniques and an understanding of maintenance procedures and the appropriate action to be taken in the event of finding defects will be gained from other modules in the programme
The module also examines aircraft instrument systems including: pitot-static for measuring airspeed and altitude, remote and direct reading compasses, gyroscopic flight instruments; and a number of avionic systems including: on-board maintenance, integrated modular avionics, cabin and information.
Practical Engineering Sklls and CAD
30 credits
This module introduces and provides an opportunity for you to develop the hand skills and basic maintenance skills needed to be an aircraft maintenance engineer. The module is not intended to turn you into skilled experts; rather it is designed to provide a thorough introduction and solid grounding for further training, practice and development. The hand-skills experience will include: reading engineering drawings, marking out, cutting, filing, drilling, and thread cutting etc. Initially you will be closely supported and guided; however, as the module progresses, your dependence on staff is expected to decrease and the tolerances to which you work increase. The maintenance skills will include: using maintenance manuals, following procedures, completing documentation and fundamental maintenance activities such as: identifying parts, wire-locking, panel removal and refitment, torque loading, assembly and disassembly. At all times throughout the module, you will be expected to display maturity, integrity, good work practices and have a responsible attitude towards safety.
This module also gives you an opportunity to practice and demonstrate that you are capable of independent learning. You will be given access to a CAD package and expected to learn how to use it by reviewing and completing tutorials; and using help pages and any other resources you are able to locate. You will be expected to maintain a log book of your experience and complete a CAD-based assignment that will form part of the module assessment strategy. The experience gained and feedback received from maintaining the log book will be beneficial to you when completing projects in the third year of the programme.
Professional Practice for Aircraft Engineers
30 credits
This module is designed to introduce students to the wider issues and challenges associated with being an aircraft engineer in the 21st century. Specifically, the social, environmental and sustainability issues that are shaping our approach to our work. This module also introduces students to the engineering design process: to manage the design process from initial idea generation to the delivery of fully formed product or process to meet customer needs, while taking account of constraints.
A number of scheduled sessions will be used to introduce students to various topics in the module such as research, data collection, academic writing, project planning and network analysis. The engineering design process is introduced through a number of case study tasks. A small group design task will be used to provide students with an opportunity to test their ability to develop a systematic approach to solve an engineering problem, taking into consideration social, economic, environmental and legislative constraints. There will be further sessions to introduce students to the use of statistical methods to maximise reliability in Engineering Design.
However, the majority of this module is delivered as an independent study with tutor support. As with AE4004, students are expected to maintain a study journal and produce a portfolio of evidence that will be used for both the summative and formative assessment of the module. The journal and portfolio will be reviewed regularly by members of the teaching team and personal tutors who will provide guidance, advice and feedback on the contents; although in this module, students will be expected to be more proactive in maintaining the study journal and sourcing material for the portfolio.
Year 3
In Years 2 and 3, you will develop these skills to improve your career prospects and enable you to complete further study.
Core modules
Turbine Engines and Thermodynamics
30 credits
The principles of operation of gas turbine engines are examined using fundamental laws of physics and the performance of a range of aircraft propulsion systems are assessed. The module also looks at the construction of typical engines by examining the various component parts (stages) of engines in detail. The layout and operation of engine systems (fuel, lubrication, air distribution, anti-icing, starting, ignition, power augmentation and fire systems) are also studied followed by engine monitoring, ground operation and storage. The engines element of the module concludes by examining the construction and operation of typical engine measuring and indication systems. The material covered should enable the student to inspect the various engine stages and systems and make independent decisions regarding their serviceability.
The module follows with a look at the aerodynamics principles of propellers, their construction and performance, before looking at propeller assemblies and associated control and monitoring systems. Topics covered include: propeller pitch control, over-speed mechanisms, protection devices, synchronising and synchrophasing.
The depth of study is sufficient to enable system serviceability to be confirmed and basic faults to be investigated so that the action necessary to restore the system to a serviceable condition can be taken.
Aircraft Maintenance Practices
30 credits
This module is the culmination of the course. In the practical element of this module, students put into practice the knowledge and experience gained from all of the other modules in the programme. Students will have completed the maintenance practices modules and will therefore be well aware of the standard procedures and practices associated with aircraft maintenance; they will also have had the opportunity to gain some experience of the skills required. During the module students will be expected to display maturity, integrity and responsibility, and will need to demonstrate key skills such as: problem solving; time management and planning; interpersonal communication; and the ability to work as an individual or as a member of a team. By the end of the module, students will be expected to have demonstrated that they are capable of performing maintenance tasks confidently, correctly and safely with minimal supervision, whilst still appreciating and understanding that they still have a lot to learn.
The group project element of this module is designed to encourage independent learning and develop the skills required of those holding senior posts in the aviation industry; particularly in the field of aircraft maintenance. It therefore provides an ideal opportunity for the student to develop and demonstrate a number of intellectual, practical and transferable skills. Students will be given a group exercise in which they work together to produce a realistic and cost effective maintenance solution for an airline operation. The details of which (routes, flight schedule, aircraft details etc.) are provided by the course team. The project involves reviewing the "scenario" to determine the exact requirements, planning for successful completion of the project, identifying options and determining costs through research, analysing data collected and formulating an evidence-based solution and presenting the findings. As part of the project, students will produce a project plan, do a group presentation, produce a substantial written report, and maintain a project log book.
Individual Project (Aircraft IEng)
30 credits
The overarching aim of this individual project module is to provide each student with the opportunity to impress. Working on a topic of their own choosing, the student, with minimal guidance from their supervisor, should apply approximately 300 hours of individual effort into the analysis of a problem and determination of the best solution and/or course of action. The analysis can take a variety of forms ranging from an in-depth comparison of a number of already documented potential solutions to the collection and comparison of experimental and theoretical data. The topic investigated should ideally be of an aircraft maintenance or engineering nature, though other topics may be permitted with the agreement of the module leader.
By completing a capstone project of this type, each student is able to demonstrate that they can draw together the information from all the other teaching and learning on the course and past learning and experience; and through innovation and analysis, demonstrate that they truly are independent learners.
Air Transport Economics
30 credits
Throughout the course of your studies, you will have so far studied material that has been focused on a specific role or roles within the air transport industry whether it be aircraft design, maintenance, operations or repair and overhaul. The aim of this module is to take a step back and explore how employers within the various sectors of the air transport industry combine all these functions in order to make a profit.
In addition to looking in detail at the overall profit and loss equation:
Traffic x Yield - Output x Cost = Profit or Loss
The module also compares the operation of the air transport market with that in other sectors and, in more general terms, looks at what makes the industry tick. The standard method of recording and reporting financial performance is also considered.
On successful completion of this module, you will not only understand how your future role will contribute to your employer's success but, should you decide to move away from the air transport sector, you will have a firm grounding in the general economic principles by which all industries operate.
