What the Job Is About
The South African Airways Technical (SAAT) team is looking for fresh, eager South African students to join the SAA Technical Apprenticeship / Learnership Programme 2026. This program gives you a chance to learn hands‑on skills for real jobs in airplane maintenance and engineering. You’ll study theory and then work with experienced technicians on actual aircraft. If you like tools, machines and the idea of making planes safe and ready to fly, this is a good fit.
Quick Facts
- Program name: SAA Technical Apprenticeship / Learnership Programme 2026
- Reference number: SAA260126-2
- Open positions: 45 spots
- Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng
- Application deadline: 3 February 2026
What You’ll Learn
This apprenticeship is built around the rules that airlines and airports follow worldwide. You’ll get a mix of classroom lessons and practical work in one of SAAT’s approved trades. By the end, you’ll have real, marketable skills that employers in South Africa and beyond respect.
Choose Your Path (Pick Two in Order of Preference)
- Aircraft Welding – Learn to weld and fix metal parts of planes and engines, use plasma spray and heat treatments, and create parts and tools.
- Aircraft Spray Painting – Work on corrosion protection, paint repair, and give planes a fresh look inside and out.
- Aircraft Trimming – Build, fix, check, and keep airplane interiors and survival gear in good shape.
- Aircraft Composite Structures – Make, repair, check, and maintain parts made from composite materials.
Minimum Education Needed
You only need to meet one of these conditions:
Option 1 – Grade 12 (Matric)
- At least 50% in Pure Mathematics or a Level 4 score
- At least 50% in Physical Science or a Level 4 score
- English – proof of a certificate is needed
Option 2 – N3 Certificate
- At least 50% pass in Mathematics
- At least 50% pass in Engineering Science
What We Look for in You
Knowledge & Skills
- Read and write in English – this is a must
- Basic sense of mechanical ideas – a plus
- Follow instructions carefully
- Speak and write well
Personal Traits
- Team player
- Careful with details
- Ready to learn new things and change when needed
- Good at solving problems
- Keep safety first – this is a big deal in aviation
Documents You Must Send
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Current CV
- Certified copy of your Matric or N3 certificate
- Anything else that shows you fit the role (if you have it)
⚠️ Make sure you include everything. Missing documents will cause your application to be dropped.
How the Selection Works
- Only those who get a short‑list notice will be called for the next steps.
- Tests may include: a face‑to‑face interview, a psychometric test, a medical check, and background security checks.
- All assessments happen in Gauteng.
- Use your permanent address when you apply.
- If you don’t hear back by 30 April 2026, your application will be considered unsuccessful.
Apply Now
Ready to start your aviation career? Apply to the SAA Technical Apprenticeship / Learnership Programme 2026 before 3 February 2026. Upload clear copies of all documents and double‑check the link before you submit.
Tip: The sooner you send in your application, the better. A clear, complete file gives you a stronger chance.
Why This is Worth Your Time
Getting trained in a field like aircraft maintenance is a smart move because these skills are needed everywhere, from South Africa to the rest of the world. The program gives you real hands‑on experience in a professional setting, so you’ll walk away ready for a job that pays well and has room to grow.