Wed, May 06, 2009
After reports of FAA investigation of A&P testing centers
in Texas and the subsequent claims that as many as 1300 mechanics
may have been "improperly" certified over the course of well over a
decade, the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association is
stepping up to face the matter head-on. The FAA reports that some
of the mechanics have been retested, but, because the mechanics are
now dispersed around the world, retesting progress has been slowed.
PAMA has gone on the record as supporting and commending the FAA's
attempts to correct this issue.
"PAMA strongly endorses the comprehensive, quality education as
prescribed by the FAA for students entering the field, and we are
dedicated to helping the FAA improve and modernize the system. We
believe the work of an improperly trained and certified A&P
mechanic not only reflects negatively upon all maintenance
professionals but presents an inherent danger to the purpose of our
industry - the safety of flight. We work closely with the FAA to
ensure that PAMA continuing education programming meets industry
needs and Administration standards. Also, to enhance an A&P
candidate's education, PAMA extends its membership benefits to PART
147 students and encourages their involvement in PAMA chapter
activities, as well as national events. To us, quality continuing
education is just as important as the quality of initial A&P
training."
PAMA adds that, "While we support and commend the FAA's attempts
to correct the problem in Texas, we also encourage the
Administration to recognize that the individuals going through
these programs may not have understood they were not getting proper
training. These individuals no doubt entered the industry placing
their trust in a training institution to prepare them properly. We
do not believe that these individuals should be working in the
industry with their current training, but we do applaud the
Administration for providing a mechanism for these unsuspecting
individuals to come into compliance with Federal Aviation
Regulations."
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