Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 1:07 AM AWST

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Apply basic aircraft power plant design characteristics

Apply basic aircraft power plant design characteristics

Unit of competency
National Code
MEA342A
State Code
W8440
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
2.00
Current Release Date
23/01/2012
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
30/06/2011
Field of Education
031503 - Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
Original Release Date
30/06/2011
Nominal Hours
120
Description
This unit of competency is part of Diploma and Advanced Diploma training pathways. It covers the basics of aircraft power plant selection and propulsion.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Research and evaluate the types of aeroplane and rotary wing aircraft power plant and their relative advantages and disadvantages
  • 1.1. The types of aeroplane and rotary wing aircraft power plant are identified and compared in terms of relative advantages and disadvantages
  • 1.2. Types of propeller are identified and compared in terms of relative advantages and disadvantages
  • 1.3. Turbojet and turbofan performance is compared in terms of relative advantages and disadvantages
  • 1.4. Maintenance requirements for aircraft power plants are identified
2. Apply basic power plant and propulsion system selection processes
  • 2.1. Given required aeroplane use and performance characteristics, an appropriate type of power plant is determined
  • 2.2. An appropriate type of propulsion system is selected
  • 2.3. Given required rotary wing aircraft use and performance characteristics, an appropriate type of power plant is determined
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Application
Application of this unit may relate to:
individual or team-related activities
Types of aeroplane and rotary wing aircraft power plant
Types of aeroplane and rotary wing aircraft power plant may include:
piston engine (petrol or diesel)
rotary
turboprop or gas turbine and rotor
turbofan
turbojet
Types of propeller
Types of propeller may include:
fixed pitch
adjustable pitch
constant speed
contra-rotating
tractor
pusher
The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment
A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to identify and apply basic power plant and propulsion system design characteristics. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.
Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, teacher's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
This unit may be assessed off the job in a training environment equipped to provide exposure to the relevant aircraft design characteristics and to theory of flight. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required and must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.
Method of assessment

Guidance information for assessment
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
AUE99 MEA342 Apply basic aircraft power plant design characteristics Unit of competency