Koramangala, Bangalore +91-9108510058 [email protected]
AI Bot

How can we help?

Post your enquiry

×

How to Become an Aeronautical Engineer?

Learn the steps, qualifications, and opportunities to start your career as an aeronautical engineer right after 12th grade.

Published By Team SetMyCareer
Last Updated: 15 June 2024
compass image

In this Career Outline


find-your-career

Introduction to Aeronautical Engineer

"The sky is not the limit; it's just the beginning for an aeronautical engineer. With dedication and a solid education, you can help shape the future of aviation." — Dr. Sally Ride

Ever watched a plane take off and wondered about the magic behind its flight? How to become an Aeronautical Engineer, Aeronautical engineering is where that magic begins, turning science fiction into reality. This field combines passion with precision, pushing the boundaries of technology to explore new frontiers. Let’s dive into how you can transform your fascination with aircraft into a thrilling career as an aeronautical engineer.


Steps to Become an Aeronautical Engineer:

Step-1

Focus on science and math in high school.

Step-2

Opt for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) in 12th grade.

Step-3

Pursue B.Tech/B.E. in Aeronautical Engineering.

Step-4

Explore M.Tech/MS or Ph.D. for advanced studies.

Step-5

Acquire practical experience through internships and projects within the aerospace industry.

Step-6

Enhance your soft skills including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Step-7

Obtain licenses or certifications like PE or PMP.

Step-8

Apply for jobs in aerospace companies.

Step-9

Stay updated with the latest advancements and pursue further education.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility Criteria Description
Eligibility 50% aggregate from a recognized institution in 12th
Educational Background Complete 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).
Undergraduate Degree Pursue a Bachelor’s in Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering.
Postgraduate Degree Consider a Master's or Ph.D. for advanced specialization (optional).
Entrance Exams Qualify exams like JEE Main, JEE Advanced, BITSAT, or state-level engineering entrance tests.

  • . Must have at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.) with a science background.
  • Need a valid score in Entrance exams after 12th like JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CEE, HITSEE, CET, etc., depending on the college. Some colleges conduct their own exams if JEE scores are not sufficient.
  • Required to earn a degree in B.Sc/B. Tech or a Diploma in how to become an aeronautical engineer after 12.
  • Optional: Consider pursuing an M.Tech in Aeronautical Engineering for advanced knowledge and career prospects.

Not eligible to pursue this career?


Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!

Tasks to perform as an Aeronautical Engineer:

Examine reports or paperwork from consumers or site engineers, as well as evaluate dysfunctional or faulty equipment, to identify compatibility problems.

Conceptualize analytical equations or other computer-assisted approaches to build, analyze, or change designs in accordance with client engineering specifications.

Economic development applications, estimates, or development methodology to evaluate aircraft or automotive policy changes, productibility, cost, or manufacturing time.

Establish design requirements for aviation or aerospace goods or systems, such as testing techniques, manufacturing costs, safety requirements, ecological norms, or deadlines.

Examine bioenergy performance indicators to see whether they're suitable for aeronautical use.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Aeronautical engineers need a diverse set of competencies to excel in their roles. Below are the essential knowledge areas and skill sets required for success in this field:

Knowledge Required
Understanding of airflow and its impact on aircraft. Insights into engines and propulsion systems.
Knowledge of materials used in aircraft construction. Ability to assess and design aircraft structures
Proficiency in software used for designing aircraft components. Understanding of flight control and stability.
Skills Required
Analytical Thinking Communication
Attention to Detail Project Management
Manual Dexterity Holistic Health Approach
Team Collaboration Technical Writing

The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?


The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!

Job Roles Offered for an Aeronautical Engineer:

Once you procure the required qualifications for becoming an Aeronautical Engineer, a myriad of options are open to you. There are multiple projects you can undertake throughout this line of work, and there are these Best courses after 12th and many other fields you can branch out to as well.

Design Engineer:

A Design Engineer interacts with customers to understand their requirements, collaborates with various departments to develop strategies that enhance user experience, and balances project elements like safety and design. They research new technologies and best practices to find cost-effective solutions, working for major corporations to meet customer demands and advance their career from junior roles as their company expands.

Aviation Maintenance Manager:

An Aviation Maintenance Manager ensures aircraft operate efficiently by overseeing repairs, conducting inspections, and upgrading planes as needed. They ensure safety through routine and emergency maintenance, including engine assessments, electronic system checks, and compliance with safety regulations.

Test Engineer:

Ensures product quality during manufacturing by employing various standards such as usability, endurance, security, and efficiency. They inspect components, processes, and systems to detect and resolve performance issues, often training and supervising team members. Typically holds a bachelor's degree, with many having postgraduate qualifications in related fields like Computer Science or Software Engineering.

Maintenance Engineer:

Ensures safe and smooth aircraft operations through repairs, periodic maintenance, and upgrades. They comply with regulatory requirements and may work flexible hours depending on the organization. Tasks include assessing, repairing, and testing aircraft components and systems to maintain safety and functionality.

Thermodynamic Engineer:

Supervises product manufacturing to ensure quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. They use principles of thermodynamics to design and oversee the production of various mechanical systems or devices. Typically employed in offices, labs, or industrial settings, they ensure products meet engineering standards and specifications.

Not sure where you fit in?


With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.

Career Opportunities for an Aeronautical Engineer:

Aeronautical Engineer can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:

Lockheed Martin Applied Marticles Inc. Boeing
QuEST Global Engineering Asteria Aerospace Cyient
Lam Research JetAvi Engineering Sapcon Instruments
Air Products

Colleges Offering Courses in Aeronautical Engineering:

Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal IST - Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram
Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering, Bangalore Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Erod
Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology, Bangalore Madras Institute of Technology, Chennai
HITS Chennai - Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology, Bangalore

End Note

Becoming an aeronautical engineer is an exciting journey that blends a passion for flight with technical expertise. Whether you dream of designing the next generation of aircraft or exploring space frontiers, this field offers endless possibilities. Ready to take off on your career path? Connect with SetMyCareer for expert Career counselling after graduation and guidance that will turn your aspirations into reality.