There are currently an estimated 28,200 aviation inspectors in the United States. The aviation inspector job market is expected to grow by 5.7% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are aviation inspectors?

CareerExplorer rates aviation inspectors with a F employability rating, meaning this career should provide poor employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 7,500 aviation inspectors. That number is based on 1,600 additional aviation inspectors, and the retirement of 5,900 existing aviation inspectors.

Are aviation inspectors in demand?

Demand for aviation inspectors is consistently impacted by the stability of business and leisure travel, aviation fuel costs, and government budgets and subsidies. In the U.S., the majority of openings in the field will continue to be with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Aspiring inspectors with superior success in the field of civilian or military aircraft mechanics and maintenance will have the best job prospects. Those who complement their mechanical acumen with a pilot’s license further enhance their employability. Experienced inspectors who demonstrate managerial abilities may be candidates for more senior roles as section or branch chiefs or FAA Academy instructors or consultants. Due to the relatively small size of this occupation, job seekers willing to relocate to any of the FAA’s Air Carrier, General Aviation, or Flight Standards District Offices will increase their employment opportunities.

What’s the supply of aviation inspectors?

The aviation inspector industry is concentrated in New York, Texas, California

Aviation Inspector job market by state

State Name Employed Aviation Inspectors
New York 4,870
Texas 4,560
California 3,370
Georgia 1,410
Florida 1,340
Illinois 860
Pennsylvania 860
Washington 850
Arizona 840
Ohio 780
New Jersey 700
Virginia 690
Massachusetts 620
Colorado 480
Missouri 440
Utah 420
Oklahoma 390
Kansas 390
Michigan 360
Arkansas 290
Maryland 290
Tennessee 270
Indiana 260
District of Columbia 260
Oregon 250
Delaware 230
Alaska 220
Connecticut 220
Kentucky 220
Mississippi 220
Minnesota 210
Wyoming 180
Montana 180
New Mexico 180
Louisiana 160
North Carolina 160
Nebraska 160
Hawaii 160
Puerto Rico 130
Wisconsin 130
Iowa 130
South Carolina 100
North Dakota 80
Rhode Island 70
South Dakota 70
Guam 50
Maine 50
Idaho 40
New Hampshire 40