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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
48861  National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
TETA - Transport Education and Training Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Level 4  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 EXCO 07158/17  2015-07-01  2016-12-31 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2017-12-31   2019-12-31  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
103219  Occupational Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  553  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
This qualification is aimed at people who are working within an Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul function with a view to being recognised as fully fledged aircraft maintenance artisans and technicians. Typically, they will be people in organisational training schemes, developing their skills towards this qualification. Candidates may also be apprentices or artisans qualified in trades outside the aeronautical industry who wish to develop their skills for aeronautical applications. In particular this qualification will be useful for:
  • Aircraft mechanical maintenance artisans
  • Aircraft electricians
  • Aircraft radio, radar and instruments technicians
  • Aircraft structural maintenance and repair technicians

    This qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to demonstrate the competencies required to work safely and productively in the different disciplines within an Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul environment. Recipients of this qualification will have knowledge and skills in the areas of fundamental life skills; safety, health, environment & quality; and one of aircraft mechanical maintenance and aircraft mechanical repair and overhaul; aircraft power plant maintenance and aircraft power plant repair and overhaul; core electrical; electrical, instruments and radio; aeronautical composites and aircraft structures.

    Recipients of this qualification will be able to:
  • Communicate in a variety of ways
  • Use mathematics in real life situations
  • Operate safely in an engineering workshop environment
  • Apply aircraft mechanical maintenance, repair and overhaul knowledge and skill, or
  • Apply aircraft power plant maintenance, repair and overhaul skills and knowledge, or
  • Apply electrical, instruments and radio knowledge within an aeronautical context, or
  • Apply aeronautical composites and aircraft structures knowledge and skills

    The detail of what the learner will know and achieve is specified in the Exit Level Outcomes.

    Artisans and Technicians will generally carry out their role within the context of:
  • Set maintenance mechanical and/or electrical engineering procedures
  • Given administration systems
  • Given inspection and testing procedures
  • Given Quality Assurance policies, procedures and processes (including FAA and JAR)
  • The framework of CAA regulations and licensing requirements

    Rationale for the qualification:

    The majority of the candidates for this qualification are likely to have completed the introductory courses to aircraft maintenance within the aerospace sector, and wish to progress within a chosen field of specialisation. This qualification will give them the opportunity to develop and balance their practical skills with the essential knowledge needed to earn a formal qualification in Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Aeronautical Engineering, without formal education becoming an impassable barrier.

    There is a critical need in the industry to identify people who have a sound foundation in the engineering trades equivalent to NQF Level 2 or N1, and have begun to specialise in a mechanical and/or electrical direction at Level 3. This qualification will provide for them the opportunity to develop the specific and complex skills demanded of Technicians within a safety conscious and highly regulated industry.

    This qualification also recognises that candidates may specialise in a variety of directions, and provides for this eventuality. The certificate will be issued as either:
  • National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Mechanical (L4)
    OR
  • National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Electrical (L4)
    OR
  • National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Electro-Mechanical (L4)
    OR
  • National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Instruments (L4)
    OR
  • National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Radio (L4)
    OR
  • National Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Structural (L4)

    The Aerospace Industry in South Africa must comply with international aviation standards. Conventional artisan and engineering training in this country (and others) does not produce people capable of working at the levels required by international aviation license requirements. The degree of sophistication and expertise requires specialist input and time-related on-the-job mentored experience for legal compliance alone.

    In addition, the future of the industry in South Africa depends heavily on the ability of the Technical Divisions of major companies to obtain and fulfil international service contracts. International airlines require high standards of performance supported by international aviation licensing. Unit standards would provide a clear description for providers of the levels and nature of skills required by the industry. They would also provide for assessment that confirmed the required degree of competence.

    A further consideration is that, for transformation purposes, large numbers of enthusiastic but generally poorly trained people need access to high quality learning and assessment opportunities if they are to meet the requirements of the aviation industry. The possibilities for incremental learning, which builds on generic engineering training, must be created if the industry is to make the equitable distribution of skills a reality. In this sense, the aims of the SGB are consistent with SAQA's own transformation goals, and with principles of access and articulation.

    Finally, there are people who have been working in the industry for some time, and who have gained the additional skills and expertise required through systematic on-the-job training. The national recognition framework can make an invaluable contribution to personal and enterprise skills development by providing for the recognition of the skills gained in this manner, through a systematic RPL process.

    In summary, the purpose of the unit standards and qualifications generated by the SGB would be to:
  • Describe the standard required for competent performance in the international arena
  • Provide clear guidelines and "targets" for training providers, which also promotes accountability
  • Provide a recognition framework that would allow for RPL
  • Provide access and progression via coherent learning pathways for engineering trainees wishing to consider a career in aerospace
  • Provide access to candidates formerly denied opportunities for a career in aerospace, which in turn promotes personal (and thus national) skills development 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that candidates embarking on learning towards this qualification are already competent in the following areas:
  • Communication skills (Language at NQF level 3).
  • Maths skills (NQF level 3)

    In addition it is assumed that learners already hold a National Certificate: Aeronautical Engineering - Mechanical/Electrical (Level 3) or equivalent competence.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through recognition of prior learning in terms of the defined exit level outcomes and/or individual unit standards.

    Evidence can be presented in various ways, including international and/or previous local qualifications, products, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records.

    All such evidence will be judged in accordance with the general principles of assessment described above and the requirements for integrated assessment. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Fundamental:
  • Communication - Candidates are required to achieve all 40 credits for Communications.
  • In terms of the requirements for an FETC, candidates are required to achieve 20 credits obtained in a second official language at a minimum of level 3.
  • Mathematical Literacy - Candidates are required to demonstrate achievement of the 16 credits for the Mathematics unit standards.
    Note: Mathematical Literacy is defined as the ability to apply basic mathematics within a variety of real life contexts.

    Core:

    Candidates must achieve all 45 CORE credits listed in Exit level outcomes 3, 4, 5, 6.

    Elective:

    Candidates must achieve at least 84 credits of their choice from specialisation clusters of ELECTIVE credits in Exit Level Outcomes 7 to 19, to achieve the full qualification.

    Candidates who wish to achieve the whole qualification with a particular 'trade endorsement' must meet the rules of combination for each of the areas of specialisation which comprise an 'endorsement' for the qualification. The possibilities are:

    1. National Certificate: AMO - Mechanical (Level 4)
  • Exit Level Outcome 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
  • ELO 6 provides useful background to airframe and engine maintenance, and can be taken in conjunction with any of the other Mechanical Electives.
  • ELO 8 will allow candidates to specialise in aircraft system maintenance and repair.
  • Exit Level Outcome 7 (general power plant maintenance and testing) is a pre-requisite with either of ELO 9 (piston engine), 10 (gas turbine engine) or 11 (rotary winged aircraft).

    2. National Certificate: AMO - Electrical (Level 4)
  • Candidates are required to achieve all 16 credits from ELO 12 in order to qualify for this endorsement.
  • A further minimum of 68 credits of the available 110 electrical credits (ELO 13) must be achieved for this qualification.

    3. National Certificate: AMO - Electro-Mechanical (Level 4)
  • Candidates seeking this endorsement must achieve ELO 12.
  • A further minimum of 68 credits must be chosen from ELOs 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13 and 14. The unit standard combination to achieve these credits will depend on enterprise specific requirements for Electro-Mechanical personnel.

    4. National Certificate: AMO - Instruments (Level 4)
  • Candidates seeking this endorsement must achieve ELO 12.
  • A further minimum of 68 credits must be achieved from ELO 14.

    5. National Certificate: AMO - Radio (Level 4)
  • Candidates seeking this endorsement must achieve ELO 12.
  • A further minimum of 68 credits must be achieved from ELO 15.

    6. National Certificate: AMO - Structural (Level 4)
  • Candidates seeking this endorsement must achieve a minimum of 84 credits from ELO 16.

    Candidates who wish to achieve more than one 'trade endorsement' must achieve the FUNDAMENTAL and CORE requirements, plus elective requirements for each of the other areas of specialisation which comprise an 'endorsement' for the qualification. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Fundamental:

    Exit Level Outcome 1: Communicate in a variety of ways - [possible 40 credits]

    Language of application:
  • Engage in sustained oral communication and evaluate spoken texts, Level 4, 5 credits.
  • Read, analyse and respond to a variety of texts, Level 4, 5 credits.
  • Write for a wide range of contexts, Level 4, 5 credits.
  • Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes, Level 4, 5 credits.

    Additional Language:
  • Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes, Level 3, 5 credits.
  • Accommodate audience and context needs in oral communication, Level 3, 5 credits.
  • Interpret and use information from texts, Level 3, 5 credits.
  • Write texts for a range of communicative contexts, Level 3, 5 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 2: Use mathematics in real life situations - [possible 16 credits]
  • Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business, and national issues, Level 4, 6 credits
  • Apply knowledge of statistics and probability to critically interrogate and effectively communicate findings on life-related problems, Level 4, 6 credits.
  • Measure, estimate and calculate physical quantities and explore, critique and prove geometrical relationships in two and three-dimensional space in the life and workplace of the adult with increasing responsibilities, Level 4, 4 credits.

    Core:

    Exit Level Outcome 3: Apply the basic principles of aircraft inspection - [possible 16 credits]
  • Demonstrate knowledge of key aviation principles and regulations for aircraft maintenance personnel, Level 3, 4 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain aircraft in storage, Level 3, 6 credits.
  • Conduct before, between, and after flight inspections, Level 4, 6 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 4: Demonstrate basic understanding of the electrical aspects of aircraft - [possible 15 credits]
  • Demonstrate knowledge of electrical and electronic components, Level 2, 3 credits.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of electrical safe working practices, Level 2, 2 credits.
  • Apply avionic repair skills, Level 3, 10 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 5: Demonstrate knowledge of maintenance, repair and overhaul practices - [possible 14 credits]
  • Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft power plant maintenance practices, Level 3, 6 credits.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft mechanical component repair and overhaul practices, Level 3, 8 credits.

    Electives:

    Exit Level Outcome 6: Apply fundamental principles for inspecting and maintaining airframes and aircraft engines within an aerospace maintenance and overhaul environment - [possible 33 credits]
  • Inspect and maintain aircraft airframe systems, Level 4, 24 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain aircraft engines, Level 4, 9 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 7: Inspect, maintain and test aircraft power plants, rotating assemblies and propellers in an aerospace maintenance and overhaul environment - [possible 40 credits]
  • Balance aeronautical rotating assemblies, Level 3, 4 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain aircraft piston engines and transmissions, Level 4, 20 credits.
  • Test aircraft engines on a test bed, Level 4, 6 credits.
  • Assemble, inspect and maintain aircraft propellers, Level 4, 10 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 8: Carry out aircraft mechanical system repair and overhaul - [possible 103 credits]
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft fuel tanks and distribution system components, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft landing gear system components, Level 4, 8 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft hydraulic system components, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft air conditioning, pressurisation, and ice and rain protection system components, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft oxygen system components, Level 4, 25 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft pneumatic power supply system components, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft water and waste system components, Level 4, 10 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 9: Apply the fundamental principles for the repair of piston aircraft engines and drive components - [possible 59 credits]
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft gearboxes and transmissions and engine lubrication system components, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft propellers, Level 4, 20 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft piston engine fuel system components, Level 4, 12 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft piston engines, Level 4, 12 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 10: Apply the fundamental principles for the maintenance and repair of jet aircraft - [possible 79 credits]
  • Inspect and maintain aircraft gas turbine auxiliary power units, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain aircraft gas turbine engine power augmentation or restoration systems, Level 4, 4 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain aircraft gas turbine power plants, Level 4, 19 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft gas turbine engine fuel control units and system components, Level 4, 12 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft gas turbine engine components, Level 4, 25 credits.
  • Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust gas turbine engine power augmentation or restoration system components, Level 4, 4 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 11: Apply the fundamental principles for the maintenance and repair of helicopters - [possible 32 credits]
  • Service rotary winged aircraft, Level 3, 4 credits.
  • Assemble, track and balance helicopter main and tail rotors, Level 4, 4 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain helicopter drive trains, Level 4, 4 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain helicopter flight control systems, Level 4, 2 credits.
  • Inspect and maintain helicopter rescue winches, Level 4, 2 credits.
  • Repair, replace, and/or adjust helicopter belt-drive components and metal rotor blades, Level 4, 4 credits.
  • Repair, replace, and/or adjust helicopter cargo suspension hooks and rescue hoists, Level 4, 4 credits.
  • Repair, replace and/or adjust helicopter drive shaft assemblies, Level 4, 8 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 12: Demonstrate basic aircraft electrical knowledge - [possible 16 credits]
  • Demonstrate knowledge of capacitors, semiconductor diodes, and rectification, Level 2, 2 credits.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of single phase transformers, Level 3, 2 credits.
  • Draw and interpret electrical diagrams, Level 3, 2 credits.
  • Demonstrate understanding of component disassembly, inspection, repair and assembly techniques, Level 4, 4 credits.
  • Use electrical test equipment to perform basic electrical tests, Level 3, 1 credit.
  • Fabricate aircraft electrical looms and harnesses, Level 3, 5 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 13: Service, repair and maintain aircraft electrical systems and components - [possible 110 credits]
  • Install aircraft electrical wiring, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Remove and install major aircraft electrical components, Level 4, 5 credits.
  • Remove and install miscellaneous aircraft electrical hardware/components, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Repair and maintain AC and DC motors, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Inspect, test and troubleshoot aircraft electrical systems and components, Level 4, 20 credits.
  • Repair or overhaul aircraft electrical and electro-mechanical components, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Repair and maintain protection and control systems, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Repair and maintain distribution system components, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Repair and maintain electrical system components, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Manufacture and/or repair aircraft electrical components or parts, Level 4, 10 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 14: Repair and maintain instrument system components - [possible 84 credits]
  • Use a handheld compass to perform a basic compass swing, Level 3, 4 credits.
  • Repair and maintain electrical instrument components, Level 4, 25 credits.
  • Repair and maintain mechanical instrument components, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Repair and maintain instrumentation components, Level 4, 25 credits.
  • Repair and maintain aircraft optical system components, Level 4, 20 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 15: Repair and maintain radio and radar system components - [possible 81 credits]
  • Identify faults and replace components in communication devices and systems, Level 3, 10 credits.
  • Identify faults and replace components in pulse navigational aid systems, Level 3, 8 credits.
  • Identify faults and replace components in non-pulse navigational aid systems, Level 3, 8 credits.
  • Repair and maintain communication devices and systems, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Demonstrate understanding of Antenna systems, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Repair and maintain pulse navigational aid systems, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Repair and maintain non-pulse navigational aid systems, Level 4, 20 credits.

    Exit Level Outcome 16: Fabricate and repair aircraft structures - [possible 93 credits]
  • Balance aircraft flight control surfaces, Level 3, 7 credits.
  • Cold work holes in aeronautical aluminium alloys, Level 3, 3 credits.
  • Form aeronautical sheet metal by cutting, Level 3, 10 credits.
  • Assemble aeronautical metal components and/or composites by bonding, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Assemble aircraft metal components using fasteners, Level 4, 20 credits.
  • Form aeronautical sheet metal by folding, Level 4, 3 credits.
  • Form aeronautical sheet metal by rubber pressing, Level 4, 10 credits.
  • Repair and/or fabricate aeronautical component parts by welding, Level 5, 8 credits.
  • Repair and/or modify aircraft metal structures, Level 4, 15 credits.
  • Visually inspect aircraft structures, Level 4, 3 credits.
  • Identify and prevent corrosion in the aeronautical industry, Level 4, 4 credits.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes, as detailed in the associated unit standards:

    a) Identifying and solving problems in which responses indicate that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
    This outcome is supported in particular by the following ELOs: 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16 and 17.
    b) Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
    This outcome is supported in particular by the following ELOs: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16 and 17 since in most cases repair and overhaul work is conducted in teams, and where it may not be possible for individuals to complete tasks without assistance.
    c) Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
    This outcome is supported in particular by the following ELOs: 7 - 12, and 14 - 17.
    d) Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information.
    This outcome is supported in particular by the following ELOs: 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16 and 17.
    e) Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral/written persuasion.
    This outcome is supported in general terms through reporting requirements, and the processing of texts in the form of procedures, specifications and regulations throughout the repair and maintenance ELOs.
    f) Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
    This outcome is supported throughout in a highly technical environment.
    g) Demonstrating and understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
    This outcome is supported in particular by the following ELOs: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17. The maintenance and repair function that is at the heart of the qualification deals primarily with interrelated systems within the context of air safety.

    Learning programmes directed towards this qualification will also contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large, by making individuals aware of the importance of:
    1) Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
    2) Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities.
    3) Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
    4) Exploring education and career opportunities; and developing entrepreneurial opportunities. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    For award of the qualification, candidates must achieve the required number of credits as specified in the rules of combination. This means candidates must achieve Exit Level Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, plus the additional Elective credits specified for the qualification in ELOs 7 to 18.

    Should candidates exit the qualification without completing the whole qualification, recognition may be given for each Exit Level Outcome achieved. For award of a particular Exit Level Outcome, candidates must achieve:
  • All the Core and Elective unit standards associated with the particular Exit Level Outcome as per the specifications contained within each unit standard, and
  • The criteria specified below.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1 [Fundamental]:
  • Communication within the maintenance function and across departments about maintenance activities, problem-solving and repair processes is clear, understandable and effective.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit level Outcome 2 [Fundamental]:
  • The mathematics is applied within a variety of maintenance and repair contexts.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3 [Core]:
  • The identification of irregularities and/or potential problems during inspections is consistent with current theories of the principles of flight.
  • Inspections carried out comply with inspection schedules; international, national and company specific procedures, and all aspects of aviation law.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4 [Core]:
  • Electrical and electronic components are accurately identified and differentiated in terms of their purpose and function.
  • The description of electrical safe practices is consistent with current legislation, and general electrical and electronic work and avionics skills are applied according to best practice, aviation regulations and company requirements.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5 [Core]:
  • Knowledge of aircraft power plant maintenance practices is current, accurate and provides a sound foundation for the development of practical maintenance skills.
  • Knowledge of aircraft mechanical component repair and overhaul practices is current, accurate and provides a sound foundation for the development of practical repair and overhaul skills.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6 [Mechanical Elective]:
  • The principles of inspection and aircraft system maintenance practices are applied consistently to the maintenance of a wide variety of airframe systems, including air-conditioning, pressurisation, fuel storage and distribution, hydraulic, landing, flight control, ice and rain protection, pneumatic, water and waste, fire protection systems.
  • The principles of inspection and maintenance are applied to the maintenance of aircraft engines, including engines, engine fuel systems, and engine lubrication systems.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7 [Mechanical Elective]:
  • The principles of inspection and power plant maintenance practices are applied consistently to the maintenance of a range of piston aircraft engines and transmissions.
  • Testing of piston engines on test beds complies with aviation regulations, maintenance documentation and enterprise procedures.
  • Static balancing and/or dynamic balancing is carried out to industry accepted standards.
  • Documentation relating to testing and/or maintenance and repair is completed in accordance with CAA regulations and enterprise procedures.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8 [Mechanical Elective]:
  • Practical engineering skills are applied consistently to the identification of irregularities, and the repair and/or modification of a wide variety of mechanical systems including air-conditioning, pressurisation, and ice and rain protection systems; fuel storage and distribution systems; aircraft hydraulic system components; landing gear system components; aircraft oxygen system components; aircraft pneumatic power supply system components, and water and waste system components.
  • Problem solving and fault-finding complies with accepted industry practices and CAA regulations.
  • Repair and/or modification complies with accepted industry practices and CAA regulations.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9 [Mechanical Elective]:
  • Practical engineering skills are applied consistently to the identification of irregularities, and the repair, replacement and/or modification of a wide range of aircraft piston engines; gearboxes and transmissions; engine lubrication system components; fuel system components; and variable and fixed pitch propeller assemblies.
  • All repair and overhaul activities are consistent with aeronautical repair + overhaul practices.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10 [Mechanical Elective]:
  • The principles of inspection and power plant maintenance practices are applied consistently to the maintenance of aircraft gas turbine power plants; auxiliary power units; power augmentation and restoration systems.
  • Practical engineering skills are applied consistently to the identification of irregularities, and the repair, replacement and/or modification of a wide range of aircraft gas turbine engines; power augmentation and restoration systems; engine fuel control units and system components.
  • All repair and overhaul activities are consistent with aeronautical repair and overhaul practices.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11 [Mechanical Elective]:
  • The principles of inspection and rotary winged aircraft maintenance practices are applied consistently to the service and maintenance of rotor assemblies; drive trains; and winches.
  • Practical engineering skills are applied consistently to the identification of irregularities, and the repair, replacement and/or modification of belt-drive components and rotor blades; hoists; and drive train and rotor assemblies.
  • All repair and overhaul activities are consistent with aeronautical repair + overhaul practices.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12 [Electrical/Electro-Mechanical/Radio/Instruments]:
  • Key electrical components are accurately identified in terms of their purpose, function and typical application.
  • The description of techniques for the disassembly, inspection, repair and replacement of key electrical components is consistent with accepted industry practice.
  • The application of drawing and basic fabrication techniques for common electrical looms and harnesses, is consistent with best practice and demonstrates a sound grasp of electrical principles.
  • Common test equipment is used in accordance with design and purpose across a range of basic electrical tests.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13 [Electrical Elective]:
  • A range of problem-solving and trouble-shooting techniques is applied to identify typical faults or irregularities in aircraft electrical systems and components.
  • The removal and installation of electrical hardware and components is carried out in compliance with CAA regulations, set procedures and accepted industry practices.
  • Practical electrical skills are applied consistently to the identification of irregularities, and the repair, replacement and/or maintenance of aircraft electrical systems and components or parts.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 14 [Instruments Elective]:
  • A range of problem-solving and trouble-shooting techniques is applied to identify typical faults or irregularities in aircraft mechanical and electrical instrument systems and components.
  • The repair and maintenance of instrument systems and components is carried out in compliance with CAA regulations, set procedures and accepted industry practices.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 15 Radio/Radar Elective]:
  • A range of problem-solving and trouble-shooting techniques is applied to identify typical faults or irregularities in aircraft and ground-based navigational aid systems and components; communication devices and systems; and antenna systems.
  • The repair and maintenance of aircraft and ground-based navigational aid systems and components and communication devices and systems, is carried out in compliance with CAA regulations, set procedures and accepted industry practices.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 16 [Structural Elective]:
  • Visual inspections are thorough and detect irregularities, including corrosion, for preventative maintenance and/or repair.
  • Balancing, forming, bending and crimping work is carried out for a range of aeronautical metal components and structures to industry accepted standards and procedures.
  • Practical structural skills, including welding, are applied consistently to the identification of irregularities, and the repair, modification and/or maintenance of aeronautical aluminium alloys.

    Integrated assessment:

    Assessment will take place according to the detailed specifications indicated in the unit standards associated with each exit level outcome. Over and above these specifications, evidence of integration will be displayed through the achievement of the broad criteria for each exit level outcome listed above, all within the context of a workshop environment. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification and the component unit standards have been compared with similar qualifications from the following countries:
  • New Zealand
  • Australia

    Both countries have comparable qualifications. This qualification requires the Maintenance Artisan to develop skills and work autonomously at levels comparable to those in the Australian and New Zealand qualifications. This is consistent with the highly regulated nature of the industry and its international character. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The following shows the relationship between this qualification and other qualifications within the field:
  • N.Dip: AET Mechanical - L5; NC: AMO Mechanical - L4
  • N.Dip: AET Electrical - L5; NC: AMO Electrical - L4
  • N.Dip: AET Elec/Mech - L5; NC: AMO Elec/Mech - L4
  • N.Dip: AET Radio - L5; NC: AMO Radio - L4
  • N.Dip: AET Instruments - L5; NC: AMO Instruments - L4
  • N.Dip: AET Structural - L5; NC: AMO Structural - L4
  • NC: Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul - Mechanical/Electrical - L3
  • NC: Mechanical Maintenance Assistant in Aeronautical Engineering - L2

    The Levels 2 and 3 qualifications are National Certificates offering a grounding in engineering practices (Level 2), and the basics of aeronautical engineering with Mechanical and Electrical elective options (Level 3). Levels 4 and 5 both make provision for specialisation in key areas.

    Horizontal articulation within the Level 4 Certificate is possible by building on the common core, and achieving the credits specified in each of the elective components of the qualification, mainly related to specialisation areas particular to each sub-field.

    Vertical articulation is possible using this qualification as the basis for any of the qualification options indicated above at level 5, although in most cases, some standards will be required horizontally before moving to another sub-field vertically. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Providers offering learning towards achievement of any of the unit standards that make up this qualification must be accredited through the relevant ETQA.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this Qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • Internal moderation of assessment must take place at the point of assessment with external moderation provided by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines and the agreed ETQA procedures. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors must be registered in terms of the requirements of SAQA and the ETDP SETA ETDQA.

    Assessment principles:

    Assessment should be in accordance with the following general and specific principles:
  • The initial assessment activities should focus on gathering evidence in terms of the main outcomes expressed in the titles of the unit standards to ensure assessment is integrated rather than fragmented. Where assessment at title level is unmanageable, then the assessment can focus on each specific outcome, or groups of specific outcomes. Take special note of the need for integrated assessment.
  • Evidence must be gathered across the entire range specified in each unit standard, as applicable. Assessment activities should be as close to the real performance as possible, and where simulations or role-plays are used, there should be supporting evidence to prove that the candidate is able to perform in the real situation.
  • All assessments should be conducted in accordance with the following universally accepted principles of assessment:
  • Use appropriate, fair manageable methods, that are integrated into real work or learning situations;
  • Judge evidence on the basis of its validity, currency, authenticity and sufficiency; and
  • Ensure assessment processes are systematic, open and consistent. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    Endorsed for either:
    Mechanical/Electrical/Electro-Mechanical/Instruments/Radio/Avionics/Structural (NC AMO 4). 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  115230  Demonstrate knowledge of electrical and electronic components  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  115234  Demonstrate knowledge of electrical safe working practices  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  115357  Apply avionic repair skills  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Core  115253  Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft mechanical component repair and overhaul practices  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Core  115241  Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft power plant maintenance practices  Level 3  NQF Level 03  6 
    Core  115239  Demonstrate knowledge of key aviation principles and regulations for aircraft maintenance personnel  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  115240  Inspect and maintain aircraft in storage  Level 3  NQF Level 03  6 
    Core  115254  Conduct before, between, and after flight inspections  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8968  Accommodate audience and context needs in oral communication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8969  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8973  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8970  Write texts for a range of communicative contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  9015  Apply knowledge of statistics and probability to critically interrogate and effectively communicate findings on life related problems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8974  Engage in sustained oral communication and evaluate spoken texts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  12417  Measure, estimate & calculate physical quantities & explore, critique & prove geometrical relationships in 2 and 3 dimensional space in the life and workplace of adult with increasing responsibilities  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Fundamental  8975  Read analyse and respond to a variety of texts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  8979  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  7468  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business, national and international issues  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8976  Write for a wide range of contexts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  115238  Demonstrate knowledge of capacitors, semiconductor diodes, and rectification  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  115332  Balance aeronautical rotating assemblies  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  115263  Balance aircraft flight control surfaces  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  115246  Cold work holes in aeronautical aluminium alloys  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  115244  Demonstrate knowledge of single phase transformers  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  115242  Draw and interpret electrical diagrams  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  115245  Fabricate aircraft electrical looms and harnesses  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  115250  Form aeronautical sheet metal by cutting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  115251  Identify faults and replace components in communication devices and systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  115259  Identify faults and replace components in non-pulse navigational aid systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Elective  115255  Identify faults and replace components in pulse navigational aid systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Elective  115272  Service rotary winged aircraft  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  115248  Use a handheld compass to perform a basic compass swing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  115243  Use electrical test equipment to perform basic electrical tests  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  115274  Assemble aeronautical metal components and/or composites by bonding  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115289  Assemble aircraft metal components using fasteners  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115335  Assemble, inspect and maintain aircraft propellers  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115267  Assemble, track and balance helicopter main and tail rotors  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115284  Demonstrate understanding of antenna systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115285  Demonstrate understanding of component disassembly, inspection, repair and assembly techniques  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115290  Form aeronautical sheet metal by folding  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Elective  115293  Form aeronautical sheet metal by rubber pressing  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115295  Identify and prevent corrosion in the aeronautical industry  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Elective  115256  Inspect and maintain aircraft airframe systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  24 
    Elective  115262  Inspect and maintain aircraft engines  Level 4  NQF Level 04  9 
    Elective  115277  Inspect and maintain aircraft gas turbine auxiliary power units  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115258  Inspect and maintain aircraft gas turbine engine power augmentation or restoration systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115261  Inspect and maintain aircraft gas turbine power plants  Level 4  NQF Level 04  19 
    Elective  115275  Inspect and maintain aircraft piston engines and transmissions  Level 4  NQF Level 04  20 
    Elective  115271  Inspect and maintain helicopter drive trains  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115269  Inspect and maintain helicopter flight control systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Elective  115276  Inspect and maintain helicopter rescue winches  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Elective  115344  Inspect, test and troubleshoot aircraft electrical systems and components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  20 
    Elective  115341  Install aircraft electrical wiring  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115350  Manufacture and/or repair aircraft electrical components or parts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115343  Remove and install major aircraft electrical components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115347  Remove and install miscellaneous aircraft electrical hardware and/or components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115342  Repair and maintain AC and DC motors  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115291  Repair and maintain aircraft optical system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  20 
    Elective  115281  Repair and maintain communication devices and systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115349  Repair and maintain distribution system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115279  Repair and maintain electrical instrument components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  25 
    Elective  115356  Repair and maintain electrical system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115287  Repair and maintain instrumentation components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  25 
    Elective  115282  Repair and maintain mechanical instrument components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115288  Repair and maintain non-pulse navigational aid systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  20 
    Elective  115351  Repair and maintain protection and control systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115286  Repair and maintain pulse navigational aid systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115292  Repair and/or modify aircraft metal structures  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115346  Repair or overhaul aircraft electrical/electro-mechanical components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115280  Repair, replace and/or adjust helicopter belt-drive components and metal rotor blades  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115333  Repair, replace and/or adjust helicopter cargo suspension hooks and rescue hoists  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115283  Repair, replace and/or adjust helicopter drive shaft assemblies  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Elective  115249  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft air conditioning, pressurisation, and ice and rain protection system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115268  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft fuel tanks and distribution system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115355  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft gas turbine engine components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  25 
    Elective  115338  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft gas turbine engine fuel control units and system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Elective  115260  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft gearboxes, transmissions and engine lubrication system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115247  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft hydraulic system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115264  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft landing gear system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Elective  115336  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft oxygen system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  25 
    Elective  115270  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft piston engine fuel system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Elective  115273  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft piston engines  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Elective  115252  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft pneumatic power supply system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Elective  115266  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft propellers  Level 4  NQF Level 04  20 
    Elective  115257  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust aircraft water and waste system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  115265  Repair, replace, modify and/or adjust gas turbine engine power augmentation or restoration system components  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115278  Test aircraft engines on a test bed  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Elective  115294  Visually inspect aircraft structures  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115296  Fabricate and/or repair aeronautical components by welding  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


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