Korea Aerospace University’s Aircraft Technical Education Center Becomes the First in the World to Offer the FAA Aircraft Mechanic Certification Program Outside the U.S.
- 2025-06-25
Korea Aerospace University (KAU)’s Aircraft Technical Education Center has launched a groundbreaking program that allows students to earn both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) aircraft mechanic certification and the Korean aircraft maintenance license. This marks the first time the FAA aircraft mechanic certification program is being offered outside the United States.
To support the new program, KAU has installed FAA-compliant training equipment in its on-campus hangar and introduced a new Learjet aircraft for hands-on practice. The university also plans to adopt immersive VR and AR-based training technologies in the near future.
On June 24, KAU held an official plaque unveiling ceremony at the back entrance of the International Education Building, recognizing the university as an authorized FAA training provider. The event was attended by KAU President Heo Hee-Young, General Affairs Director Choi Byung-Kwon, Flight Education Center Director Kim In-Kyu, Aircraft Technical Education Center Director Kim Sung-Gil, and Deputy Director Kim Jong-Bok. From the U.S. Aviation Academy (USAA), CFO Justin Sykes, Director of Development Scott Sykes, and Education Director Stormy Sykes were also in attendance.
USAA is the largest FAA-certified aviation training organization in the United States, with 12 campuses and over 200 aircraft. It trains approximately 1,700 pilots and mechanics annually and maintains strong partnerships with major industry players, including Delta Air Lines and StandardAero—the world’s leading aircraft engine maintenance provider. USAA signed a partnership agreement with KAU in 2022, selecting it as its first strategic partner in Asia.
The jointly operated FAA program spans one year, with six months of training at KAU and another six months at USAA’s Dallas campus in Texas. Upon completing both theoretical and practical components, students will be eligible to take the FAA certification exam and the Korean licensing exam. Graduates will have access to internship and employment opportunities in countries including the U.S., Japan, and Singapore.
President Heo Hee-Young stated, “It’s a great honor for Korea Aerospace University to host the FAA aircraft mechanic program. I look forward to this partnership with USAA paving the way for KAU to become a central hub for aviation professionals in Asia.”
Justin Sykes, CFO of USAA, added, “We’re thrilled to partner with KAU to launch the first FAA aircraft mechanic program outside of the U.S.”
Following the ceremony, Scott Sykes gave a special lecture at KAU’s Vision Hall on the topic “FAA Aircraft Mechanic Certification and Global Internship Opportunities.” More than 200 students—including those from the Aircraft Technical Education Center, the Aviation MRO program, and international students—attended the session, showing strong interest in global careers in aircraft maintenance.
About the FAA Aircraft Mechanic Certification
This professional license authorizes the holder to inspect, repair, and approve airframes and powerplants. It is a legal requirement for practicing aircraft mechanics in the United States.
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