Why Study Rotorcraft at NMIT?

1. Direct connection with aircraft maintenance licensing

The course is specifically designed around knowledge needed for the CAA AMEL Subject 6 Rotorcraft examination.

2. Flexible online learning

Students can study online and independently, making it possible to continue working while completing the training.

3. Work-and-study model

NMIT specifically describes these training schemes as suitable for aircraft maintenance engineers who want to continue full-time employment while preparing for CAA examinations.

4. Industry-specific content

The course focuses specifically on rotorcraft systems rather than generic aviation theory.

5. NZCAA Part 147 training organisation

NMIT states that it is New Zealand's first approved NZCAA Part 147 Certified Maintenance Training Organisation and has taught aeronautical engineering maintenance for many years.

6. Potential pathway into the wider AMEL qualification

The individual training schemes can be used as building blocks towards NMIT's New Zealand Diploma in Aeronautical Maintenance Certification (Level 6). NMIT says students completing training schemes can cross-credit a minimum of 75 and up to 90 NZQA credits within six years towards the diploma, subject to the diploma requirements

Subjects / Topics Covered

NMIT's current Rotorcraft course covers:

Theory of Flight

Students develop knowledge of the principles underlying flight and rotorcraft operation.

Rotorcraft Structure

Study of the structure and construction of rotorcraft.

Rotorcraft Systems

Understanding the systems used in rotorcraft and their maintenance requirements.

Flight Control Systems

Study of rotorcraft flight-control systems.

Hydraulics

Principles and maintenance considerations associated with hydraulic systems.

Powertrain Components

Understanding rotorcraft powertrain components.

Fuel Systems

Study of rotorcraft fuel-system components and operation.

Rotorcraft Weight & Balance

Knowledge relating to aircraft weight, balance and associated maintenance considerations.

Environmental Systems, Equipment & Furnishings

Covers relevant aircraft environmental systems and equipment/furnishing areas.

Rotorcraft Servicing, Testing & Ground Handling

Focuses on maintenance servicing, testing and safe ground-handling practices.

Disciplines / Specialisation

The Rotorcraft Training Scheme is already a specialised aviation discipline.

Main specialisation

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering – Rotorcraft

The training is focused on maintaining rotorcraft systems and preparing for the CAA's Rotorcraft licence subject.

It is therefore suitable for professionals interested in:

• Helicopter maintenance
• Rotorcraft systems
• Rotorcraft servicing
• Aircraft maintenance engineering
• Aviation maintenance certification

Career Outcomes

The training scheme itself is a single specialist component, so it should not be marketed as independently producing a fully licensed aircraft maintenance engineer.

However, it can contribute to the professional pathway towards roles such as:

• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
• Rotorcraft Maintenance Engineer
• Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, after meeting all CAA requirements
• Aircraft maintenance supervisor
• Aircraft maintenance certifying engineer
• Aviation engineering technical roles

NMIT states that licensed aircraft maintenance engineers can work for:

• Major airlines
• Aircraft maintenance companies
• Aircraft construction companies
• Aviation organisations in New Zealand and overseas.