Explore Aviation Technician Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship. Learn about salaries, top employers, requirements, and how foreigners can apply for aircraft maintenance careers in 2026. The UK aviation sector is expanding, driven by airline growth, airport operations, and advanced aerospace projects. For foreign professionals, aviation technician roles provide competitive salaries, visa sponsorship, and the opportunity to work with world-class aircraft and technology.
This guide covers types of aviation technician jobs, top employers, salary expectations, visa sponsorship, and application process in 2026.
Why Work as an Aviation Technician in the UK?
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High Demand for Skilled Technicians – Airlines and MRO companies are constantly hiring due to retirements and fleet expansion.
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Competitive Salaries – Aviation technicians earn £28,000 – £50,000+ per year depending on experience and role.
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Visa Sponsorship – Employers hire foreign technicians under the Skilled Worker visa program.
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Career Growth – Opportunities to become Senior Technician, Lead Engineer, or Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor.
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Exposure to Advanced Technology – Work on airliners, business jets, helicopters, and defense aircraft.
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Expat-Friendly Environment – The UK has multicultural cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
Types of Aviation Technician Jobs in the UK
Foreigners can apply for various positions depending on skills and experience:
1. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT / Aircraft Engineer)
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Handles inspections, troubleshooting, repairs, and certifications.
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Salary: £28,000 – £45,000/year
2. Avionics Technician
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Works on aircraft electronics, navigation, and communication systems.
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Salary: £30,000 – £48,000/year
3. Aerospace Engineering Technician
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Supports design, testing, and maintenance of aircraft components.
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Salary: £32,000 – £50,000/year
4. Line Maintenance Technician
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Conducts daily inspections and minor repairs at airports.
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Salary: £28,000 – £40,000/year
5. Heavy Maintenance / Base Technician
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Handles major overhauls in hangars and MRO facilities.
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Salary: £35,000 – £50,000/year
Average Salaries for Aviation Technicians in the UK
Job Role | Average Annual Salary (£) |
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Aircraft Maintenance Technician | 36,000 |
Avionics Technician | 38,000 |
Aerospace Engineering Technician | 42,000 |
Line Maintenance Technician | 32,000 |
Heavy Maintenance Technician | 45,000 |
Additional perks include overtime, shift allowances, pension schemes, and health insurance.
Top Employers of Aviation Technicians in the UK
Foreigners can find opportunities with:
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British Airways Engineering – Line and base maintenance for international flights.
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EasyJet Engineering – Aircraft maintenance for the low-cost airline fleet.
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Rolls-Royce – Jet engines and aerospace components.
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BAE Systems – Defense aircraft maintenance and aerospace engineering.
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GKN Aerospace – Manufacturing and maintenance of aerospace components.
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Menzies Aviation – Ground and line maintenance across UK airports.
Visa Sponsorship for Foreign Aviation Technicians
Foreigners typically require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK. Key points:
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Job Offer – Must be from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
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Sponsorship Certificate – Issued by the employer for visa processing.
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Salary Threshold – Minimum £26,200/year (may vary by role).
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Qualifications – Aviation license or certification recognized by EASA Part-66/UK CAA.
Many UK employers actively sponsor visas for skilled aviation technicians due to industry shortages.
Requirements for Aviation Technicians
To increase your chances:
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EASA Part-66 or UK CAA Aircraft Maintenance License (AML)
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Diploma or degree in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering or Aerospace Technology
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Experience with airliners, business jets, or helicopters
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Strong technical and troubleshooting skills
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Excellent English communication
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Willingness to relocate and work shifts
How to Apply for Aviation Technician Jobs in the UK
1: Prepare Your Resume
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Use a UK-style CV, emphasizing certifications, licenses, aircraft types, and hands-on experience.
2: Get Licensed & Certified
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Ensure your Part-66/CAA license is valid or convertible.
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Optional: Avionics or specialized aircraft certifications.
3: Apply Online
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LinkedIn Jobs (UK)
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Indeed UK
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Glassdoor UK
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Company career pages: British Airways, EasyJet, Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems
4: Prepare for Interviews
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Technical interview on aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and safety
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Practical assessment in a hangar or simulator
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English proficiency and communication assessment
5: Visa & Relocation
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Employer sponsors Skilled Worker visa and assists with relocation.
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Accommodation and travel allowances may be provided for some positions.
Best Locations for Aviation Technician Jobs in the UK
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London / Heathrow – Major airlines and maintenance hubs
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Manchester – EasyJet and regional MRO facilities
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Bristol – Airbus manufacturing and aerospace engineering
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Birmingham – Defense and aviation industry cluster
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Glasgow / Prestwick – Aircraft maintenance and offshore operations
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Obtain a UK/European-recognized license (Part-66).
- Highlight hands-on aircraft maintenance experience in your CV.
- Apply to employers sponsoring Skilled Worker visas.
- Gain experience with specific aircraft types or systems.
- Stay updated on UK aviation industry job portals and recruitment events.
Final Thoughts
For foreign professionals, aviation technician jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship are a high-demand, high-paying career opportunity. With airlines and MRO companies expanding fleets and retiring experienced staff, skilled technicians are highly sought after.
If you have the right certifications, technical expertise, and English proficiency, the UK offers a rewarding career in aviation maintenance with international exposure.