FAA Mechanic Certifications Set a Record — The Shortage Narrows, But Doesn't Close

The FAA issued more new aircraft mechanic certificates in 2025 than in any previous year, with certifications up 23.2 percent over 2024. For owners, the number that matters is less the record itself than what it feeds: the pool of A&P-rated technicians shops draw on for scheduled maintenance and unscheduled squawks alike. Even with that jump, industry forecasts still point to a workforce shortfall large enough that qualified mechanics remain in shorter supply than the fleet requires. The gain narrows that gap. It does not close it.

With reporting from AVweb.