Even with higher salaries, the number of airline mechanics has been declining and airlines are having a difficult time hiring enough mechanics. Why this is occurring can be seen by looking at the job. Whether it is diagnosing bad wiring at 3 A.M., squeezing into fuel tanks, or replacing antennas 60 feet off the ground, an aircraft mechanic’s job takes place in less than ideal circumstances. The individual works weekends, holidays, and late night shifts, which is when most airline maintenance is done. The pay is about $57,000 per year for a job that certainly affects airline passengers and their lives. Mechanics are invisible to most customers, but their work is the backbone of flying.