How To Become an Aeronautical Engineer?

Aeronautical Engineering deals with the design and construction of aircraft and related machines. It is an exciting field for those interested in airplanes and how they work. The course teaches how to create and maintain flight-capable vehicles like helicopters, satellites, fighter jets, drones, and space shuttles. It trains professionals to develop new technologies for the aviation industry and opens up career opportunities in the defense sector.

To get admission to Aeronautical Engineering, students need to pass Class 12 in Physics, Chemistry, and Math with at least 60% aggregate marks. Entrance exams like JEE Main, LPUNEST, GATE, etc. are used to screen candidates. The top colleges for this program are MIT Manipal, LPU, Amity University, etc.

Aeronautical Engineers design aircraft and propulsion systems. They analyze building materials, evaluate flight performance, and assemble plane components. They also conduct testing and maintenance of aircraft. Engineers can find jobs in the aviation, defense, or civil aviation industries. Their main role includes conceptualizing aircraft models, overseeing manufacturing, and ensuring quality control.

What is the role of an Aeronautical Engineer?

Aeronautical Engineering stands out as a captivating field for those aspiring to excel in the realms of aircraft, airplanes, jet planes, and space shuttles. It involves a comprehensive study of Aeronautics.

Each year, 8 to 10 thousand students embark on a career in Aeronautical Engineering, with numbers increasing by 4-6% annually. India boasts around 180 Aeronautical Engineering Colleges, with 67% being private, 8% government-owned, and the remainder being public-private institutions.

Aeronautical engineers play a pivotal role in developing, testing, designing, and aiding in the production of both commercial and military aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. Their work extends to the creation and design of cutting-edge technologies such as supersonic jets, helicopters, space shuttles, satellites, and rockets. Thanks to the dedication of Aeronautical Engineers, traveling to the moon has become a seamless reality. Currently, Aerospace Engineers are actively engaged in launching a space shuttle for lunar exploration.

Types of Aeronautical Engineers

Exploring the job landscape for Aeronautical Engineers reveals a vast array of opportunities in various sectors. The choice of specialization within Aeronautical Engineering is entirely up to your preferences. Here are some potential job profiles:

Thermal Design Engineer

Specialized in thermal engineering, dealing with energy movement in systems like boilers, heat pumps, water pumps, and engines.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Creates, develops, and tests products such as machines, tools, and sensors. Solves problems using principles of physics, chemistry, and mechanics.

Aerospace Designer Checker

Responsible for checking, designing, constructing, and developing aircraft. Works closely with mechanical design engineers in crafting aircraft components.

Graduate Engineer Trainees

Recent engineering graduates employed by companies as trainees. Gain practical experience by using CAD software, working on projects, and writing reports.

Assistant Aircraft Engineers

Apply scientific and mathematical concepts to solve practical problems in aircraft design, testing, maintenance, and production supervision.

Aeronautical Engineering Eligibility Criteria

Pursuing an aeronautical engineering degree in India requires a significant financial investment. On average, a four-year bachelor’s program may cost around ₹1 lakh per annum. subsequently, a two-year postgraduate course could incur expenses of ₹2 lakhs annually.

For those seeking shorter tertiary education, diploma programs in aeronautics are also available. The average annual fees range from ₹60,000 to ₹1,00,000 for such courses.

Beyond finance, interested candidates must meet key eligibility prerequisites to apply for aeronautical engineering admissions:

Course	Description	Additional Information
Diploma	Diploma holders in aircraft maintenance engineering can pursue degrees upon clearing exams by the Aeronautical Society of India.	Explore opportunities for further education and specialization after acquiring a diploma in aircraft maintenance engineering.
Undergraduate	Aeronautical engineering requires a minimum of 50-55% marks in PCM in Class 12. Admission to undergraduate programs is based on JEE Main and JEE Advanced scores.	Numerous engineering colleges in India offer Aeronautical Engineering. Consider preparing for JEE exams for admission eligibility.
Postgraduate & Doctoral	Candidates need a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering for postgraduate studies. GATE scores are accepted by institutions like IITs, IISc, and research institutions.	Pursue higher education by completing a Master’s degree and consider research opportunities through various entrance tests for Doctoral Programs.

Top Aeronautical Engineering Entrance Exams 2024

Most colleges offering Aeronautical Engineering programs provide admission either through own entrance test or accept national level exam scores.

Prominent engineering entrance exams that aeronautical engineering aspirants should consider are:

The simplified opener conveys key exam pathways for aeronautical degree admissions in easy vocabulary and sentences. It sets the context aligned to the original paragraph before presenting the list of recommended aeronautical focused tests for aspirants.

Exam	Exam Dates
JEE Main	Session 1: 24 Jan ’24 – 1 Feb ’24 Session 2: 4 Apr ’24 – 15 Apr ’24
JEE Advanced	01 Jan ’24 – 08 Jan ’24
MHT CET	16 Apr ’24 – 30 Apr ’24
CUET	15 May ’24 – 31 May ’24
TS EAMCET	09 May ’24 – 11 May ’24
BITSAT	Session I: 19 May ’24 – 24 May ’24 Session II: 22 Jun ’24 – 26 Jun ’24
COMEDK	12 May ’24
KCET	20 Apr ’24 – 21 Apr ’24
KEAM	May ’24 (Tentative)
WBJEE	28 Apr ’24
VITEEE	19 Apr ’24 – 30 Apr ’24
GATE	3 Feb ’24 – 11 Feb ’24

Aeronautical Engineering Syllabus

The aeronautical engineering degree curriculum covers specialized core and elective subjects on aircraft design, engineering and operation.

Semester	Subjects
1	Mathematics, Engineering Physics, Engineering Chemistry, Introduction to Aerospace Engineering, Basic Electrical Engineering
2	Vector Calculus and Ordinary Differential Equations, Physics II, Materials Science and Metallurgy, Basic Electronics Engineering, Engineering Graphics
3	Engineering Thermodynamics, Mechanics of Solids, Fluid Mechanics, Manufacturing Technology, Introduction to Machine Elements and Drawing
4	Aerodynamics, Heat Transfer, Applied Dynamics and Vibration, Machining and Precision Manufacturing, Introduction to Social Science and Ethics
5	Compressible Flow, Atmospheric Flight Mechanics, Spaceflight Mechanics, Theory of Elasticity, Automatic Control
6	Air-Breathing Propulsion, Aerospace Structures, Optimization Techniques in Engineering, Principles of Management Systems, Solar Thermal Energy
7	Aerospace Vehicle Design, Environmental Science and Engineering, Structural Dynamics, Two-Phase Flow and Heat Transfer, Flight Mechanics and Propulsion Lab
8	Comprehensive Viva-Voce, Project Work

Top Private Colleges for Aeronautical Engineering

Some prestigious private Indian colleges offering aeronautical engineering programs are university-affiliated institutes as well as autonomous technical schools. With outstanding infrastructure and aerospace faculty, these institutes attract many aspiring aerospace engineers.

Below are some acclaimed private Indian colleges to pursue an aeronautical degree:

Institute	Total Average Fees
Amity University, Noida	INR 3-12 lakh
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science	INR 2-13 lakh
Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education	INR 4 lakh
Kumaraguru College of Technology	INR 2 lakh
Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar	INR 7 lakh
Manipal Institute of Technology	INR 10-13 lakh
Manav Rachna University	INR 5-6 lakh
Parul University	INR 1-3 lakh
SASTRA (Deemed to be University)	INR 5 lakh
Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr Sagunthala R and D Institute of Science and Technology	INR 2-10 lakh

Top Government Colleges for Aeronautical Engineering

Some leading public sector colleges offering aeronautical engineering degrees encompass central and state engineering universities. Renowned for their aerospace programs and advanced R&D facilities, these government institutes are premier destinations for aspiring aeronautical students.

Below are some of the most acclaimed public aerospace engineering colleges in India:

Institute	Total Average Fees
Bikaner Technical University	INR 2 lakh
Dr. Ambedkar Institute Of Technology (AIT), Bangalore	INR 2 lakh
Feroze Gandhi Institute of Engineering and Technology	INR 2 lakh
IIST – Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology	INR 1-5 lakh
Madras Institute of Technology, Anna University	INR 50,000-2 lakh
PES College of Engineering	INR 2 lakh
Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh	INR 73,000-7 lakh
Punjab State Aeronautical Engineering College	INR 3 lakh
Rajasthan Technical University	INR 2 lakh
Visvesvaraya Technological University	INR 12,000-1 lakh

Top Universities for Aeronautical Engineering Abroad

Aeronautical engineering institutes in the USA have set the global benchmark with stellar career prospects, leading faculty and curriculum. However, programs in the UK, Canada, and Australia have also been acknowledged for academic excellence by multiple global agencies

How to Become an Aeronautical Engineer in the UK?

Students interested in pursuing aeronautical engineering at reputed UK institutes should ensure they meet eligibility criteria and prepare necessary documents for smooth admission:

• Completed 10+2 education with minimum 60% aggregate marks
• Indian citizen applicants should be at least 18 years of age
• Candidates need to qualify English tests like IELTS (score 6.5-7.0) or TOEFL iBT (90-100 points)

Meeting these parameters and having supporting paperwork ready will streamline the application process at desired UK aeronautical colleges.

How to Become an Aeronautical Engineer in Canada?

Candidates aspiring for aeronautical engineering degrees in the USA should ensure the following eligibility parameters:

• Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience
• English language proficiency through TOEFL/IELTS exams
• 2-3 recommendation letters
• Qualify the GRE standardized graduate admission test

Having adequate work exposure in the field along with strong letters of recommendations is valued highly by aerospace graduate programs in the US. Meeting the above application requirements and criteria will strengthen admission prospects at reputed American institutes.

How to Become an Aeronautical Engineer in the USA?

To apply for aeronautical engineering programs in Canada, candidates should fulfill the following prerequisites:

• Completed 12th grade or equivalent education with minimum scores in math, physics and chemistry
• Qualify English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL
• Secure at least 80% aggregate marks in graduation exams if applying for Masters
• Appear for the GRE standardized test

Meeting the above eligibility criteria in terms of 12th grades, undergraduate scores if applicable, English skills and GRE performance is essential for admission into Canadian institutes offering aerospace engineering degrees.

Benefits of career as an Aeronautical Engineer

Rather than discussing the choice of becoming an Aeronautical Engineer, let’s focus on the benefits or advantages associated with being one. Beyond the respect and knowledge offered by the aeronautical course, pursuing it through top-notch Aeronautical Engineering colleges like Sha-Shib in India brings forth several additional benefits. Let’s delve into some of these advantages:

1. Booming Aerospace Sector

India’s aerospace sector has rapidly expanded in recent decades and continues on a growth trajectory. Aeronautical engineering provides an opportunity to shape this blossoming industry at the forefront of innovation.

2. Abundant Job Opportunities

Aeronautical engineering skills are highly valued, making these professionals extremely sought-after. There is a talent shortage, with abundant roles across aircraft design, manufacturing, mechanics, research and aviation operations with leading employers like Air India, ISRO and IndiGo.

3. Lucrative Salaries

Given the complex, specialized nature of work, aeronautical engineers can expect attractive pay packages in India. Exact figures vary based on experience and employer, but the profession is recognized as high-paying.

4. Travel Opportunities

Aeronautical engineering careers often involve frequent travel to different parts of India or the world for projects, training programs and collaborations. Many times, travel and accommodation expenses are covered by the hiring company.Job Profiles and Scope of Aeronautical Engineering

As highlighted earlier, obtaining a degree in Aeronautical Engineering opens up opportunities in diverse industries and roles. Whether you pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s program for a professional or research-focused path, or opt for short-term courses to fast-track your career in a specific area with a focus on skills, the options are wide-ranging. Here are some job profiles to consider after completing an Aeronautical Engineering degree or course:

• Research Assistant
• Lecturer/Professor
• Aircraft Technician
• Aerospace Medicine Expert
• Aircrash Investigation Expert
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
• Technical Officer
• Aircraft Design Engineer
• Quality Assurance Engineer
• Airworthiness Engineer
• Aerodynamicist
• Structures and Materials Engineer
• Acoustic Experts
• Stress Analyst

What are the skills and qualities required to become an Aeronautical Engineer?

Aspiring aeronautical engineers need to develop specialized skills required in this field. Below we summarize the abilities and traits aerospace industry candidates should focus on:

Communication Skills

• Effectively interact with teams, clients and stakeholders
• Write detailed reports, documents and operating manuals

Attention to Detail

• Closely monitor components for any safety hazards or issues

Flexibility

• Perform under extreme pressures
• Adapt to extended 10-12 hour workdays and frequent travel

Time Management

• Complete tasks accurately by stipulated deadlines
• Avoid unnecessary delays that can risk major impact
• Cultivating these well-rounded competencies is vital when learning how to become an accomplished aeronautical engineer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do Aeronautical Engineers do?

Aeronautical engineers primarily design aircraft and propulsion systems. Their responsibilities also span inspecting mechanisms, maintenance, and ensuring aviation vehicles function properly. The role is challenging yet rewarding.

Where do Aeronautical Engineers find jobs in India?

There are openings in the defense sector and civilian aviation industry. Candidates can work with the Air Force, private airlines, or research organizations involved in developing specialized flight technologies. These are prestigious and strategic roles.

Is pursuing Aeronautical Engineering difficult?

Yes, aeronautical engineering is considered among the more complex engineering specializations. It demands advanced skills in physics and mathematics. Strong analytical abilities and diligence are vital to succeed. However, it remains a popular course among engineering aspirants.

What salaries can Aeronautical Engineers expect?

The average salary of an aeronautical engineer in India is ₹5 lakhs per annum initially. Pay scales are attractive, especially in defense and airlines. Higher experience leads to seniority and substantially higher earnings potential.

Can females pursue Aeronautical Engineering?

Absolutely. Women with aptitude for physics, chemistry, and mathematics should undoubtedly consider this field. Many colleges have female reservation quotas. Leading recruiters like Air Force and airlines also actively hire women engineers at par pay.

Which are the top institutes for Aeronautical Engineering degrees?

Esteemed names providing quality aeronautical engineering education include Amrita University, Manipal Institute of Technology, Punjab Engineering College, and Visvesvaraya Technological University among others.

What is the eligibility to pursue Aeronautical Engineering after 12th?

After passing class 12th with physics, chemistry and mathematics, students can appear for engineering entrance tests like JEE Main and Advanced. Clearing these exams will enable admission into government or private aeronautical engineering colleges for a bachelor’s degree.