Aircraft inspectors inspect aircraft and aircraft systems following manufacture, modification, maintenance, repair or overhaul.

In general, you usually need a high school diploma. You usually need a college program in aircraft maintenance or a four-year apprenticeship program. To be an aircraft mechanic or inspector, who signs maintenance releases and certifies airworthiness, you also need an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) licence issued by Transport Canada. Trade certification for aircraft maintenance engineers is available, but voluntary, in the Northwest Territories. Trade certification for aircraft structural technicians is available, but voluntary, in British Columbia. Voluntary industry certification is available from the Canadian Aviation Maintenance Council. With experience, you may move up the ranks to become foreman or forewoman, shop supervisor or aircraft inspector. To be an aircraft inspector, you need several years' experience as an aircraft mechanic. Most recent entrants have a trade/vocational certificate or a community college diploma.