Essential Toolkit for Aviation Mechanics: 10 Must-Have Tools for Success

Top 10 Aviation Mechanic's Tools

A Toolkit Essentials Guide from SkyGeek

It can be challenging to be an aviation mechanic—and incredibly rewarding when you diagnose and resolve a problem with an aircraft. But doing the job right starts with having the right aircraft tools. At SkyGeek, we provide aviation mechanic tools and supplies to hundreds of technicians every year, helping them stay equipped for anything.

What are their go-to tools? Based on over 40 years of experience, here's your SkyGeek guide to the Top 10 aviation mechanic's tools - whether you are your own plane's mechanic or supervise a big maintenance crew at a government installation or major airline.

These go-to air mechanic tools range from basic hand tools to sophisticated electrical devices. Keep in mind that you can find the best of these tools at affordable prices at SkyGeek.com.

Basic Hand Tools for an Aviation Mechanic

Wrenches

Wrenches are a staple in any mechanic's toolbox and aviation mechanics require a variety, from open-end and ratcheting tools to adjustable wrenches. From universal battery vent wrenches to oil filter torque wrenches, buy wrenches that are universal and wrenches that are specific to the airplane part. Find a variety of airplane mechanic's wrenches by top brands like Tempest, Champion Aerospace, SAFT and Pratt & Whitney at SkyGeek.

Pliers

Pliers are essential for gripping, twisting and cutting wires and fasteners. Aviation mechanics should have needle-nose, diagonal cutting, slip-joint pliers and specialty pliers like safety wire pliers for specific tasks. For examples of costs and uses, see our collection of affordably priced safety pliers at SkyGeek.

Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers are used to remove and secure various fasteners. A good set of screwdrivers, includes flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers in various sizes. Torx and Robertson screwdrivers are considered by veterans to be must-have tools for aviation mechanics.

Inspection Mirrors and Flashlights

Aviation mechanics often work in tight, dimly lit spaces. That's why inspection mirrors and LED flashlights are essential. These simple tools allow you to get a better look at components that are behind instrument panels or deep in engine compartments. Flexible-neck flashlights or magnetic LED models can help illuminate tricky areas while keeping your hands free.

Safety Wire Tools

Beyond pliers, having an entire safety wire tool kit is a smart move. These include pre-drilled bolt heads, wire twisters and cutters. You'll need these for everything from securing oil caps to locking brake components. If safety wiring is a regular part of your workflow, you'll want durable, reliable tools you can count on daily.

Heat Guns and Shrink Tubing Tools

Working with aircraft avionics tools often requires heat guns for shrink-wrapping wire bundles and connectors. These help organize and protect sensitive systems. A compact heat gun and an assortment of shrink tubing in your avionics tool kit can really streamline avionics maintenance tasks.

Rivet Guns and Bucking Bars

Structural repairs often mean replacing or installing rivets. Pneumatic rivet guns and bucking bars are essential fixed tools that every sheet metal mechanic should keep close. They're used for fastening panels and ensuring structural integrity during repairs or builds.

Specialty Avionics Tools

The modern aircraft is packed with electrical systems, making avionics tools more important than ever. Multicomponent testers, coax cable crimpers, and pin extractors are just a few tools you'll find in a comprehensive avionics tools list. These tools aren't just convenient-they're necessary for diagnosing and repairing sensitive electronic equipment.

SkyGeek offers an extensive selection of avionics supply options to help you round out your aircraft tool collection and tackle any challenge the next inspection throws at you.

Measuring Tools

Micrometers

Micrometers are precision measuring instruments used to measure small distances or thicknesses. These are the tools you'll need to ensure proper tolerances and clearances in aircraft components.

Calipers

A caliper is another go-to measuring tool for aviation maintenance technicians. They can measure the sizes of inside and outside diameters, as well as depth, making them a versatile tool in your workshop.

Torque Wrenches

Torque wrenches are used to apply a specific amount of torque to a nut, bolt or other fastener to ensure the fastener is properly tightened. They're considered a critical tool for aviation mechanics, since improper torque can lead to component failures or even accidents.

Electrical Tools

A Multimeter

A multimeter allows aviation mechanics to diagnose and troubleshoot electrical issues in aircraft systems. It can measure voltage, electrical current and resistance, making this instrument a top 10 addition to your toolbox.

A Soldering Iron

A soldering iron is a hand tool to repair and maintain electrical connections in aircraft systems. Aviation mechanics should have a reliable soldering iron to ensure strong and secure connections.

Wire Strippers

Wire strippers are used to prepare and repair electrical wiring. They allow aviation mechanics to strip insulation from wires without damaging the conductive material, ensuring proper connections. A Stripmaster wire stripper by Ideal is among wire strippers designed for precision wire stripping.

Safety Equipment

Safety Goggles

Safety should always be a top priority for aviation mechanics. Protective eyewear will protect your eyes from flying debris and chemicals. Safety glasses will protect your eyes from bright light sources such as welding arcs. Keep them handy at your home and the hangar.

Safety Gloves

Protective gloves are essential safety gear for aviation mechanics. They protect your hands from cuts, abrasions and burns while working with sharp tools, hot surfaces and chemicals. Like safety goggles, keep more than one set of safety gloves for home projects, too.

Organization and Storage

Toolboxes and Chests

Veteran aviation mechanics recommend keeping essential tools in a well-organized toolbox or chest for easy access.

Investing in a high-quality toolbox or sturdy chest with drawers and compartments will save time and frustration for those urgent repairs.

Tool Carts on Wheels

Mobile tool carts are a popular addition to any mechanic's workshop, allowing aviation mechanics to efficiently transport their tools easily from one workstation to another. You'll see small and large aviation tool carts at large hangars or other facilities with multiple aircraft.

Equipping yourself with the right tools is essential for success as an aviation mechanic. Begin with the ten must-have tools recommended by SkyGeek and add more tools to match the specific needs of your job. You might add a universal battery charger or double-action pulling head to your go-to maintenance gear.

Don't forget to invest in safety equipment and choose toolboxes or tool carts to organize and secure those much-have airplane maintenance tools.