aircraft on ground support

24/7/365 AOG SUPPORT: 215.937.9020 | aog@wsa.aero

Month: October 2025

UV Finishes

About 10 years ago, West Star made a major change to the way we finish cabinetry during interior events. We moved away from our long-used Ilva (polyester) finish system and transitioned to a new ultraviolet (UV) curing process. The results have been outstanding — faster turnaround times, a more consistent finish, and long-term durability that […]

GOGO Galileo

Aircraft Shop

In today’s rapidly evolving aviation landscape, planning and scheduling for aircraft inspections, modifications, and upgrades has never been more important. The current industry environment — marked by parts shortages, limited hangar capacity, and workforce constraints — makes proactive coordination with your Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) provider absolutely essential. At West Star Aviation, we understand […]

From left to right: Jon Hein, Regional Sales Manager, Landing Gear & Accessories (West Star Aviation); Marc-Olivier Gagnon, Vice President, Support Products (Héroux-Devtek); Steve Goede, Vice President, Components & Accessories (West Star Aviation); Rui Rodrigues, Technical Support Manager (Héroux-Devtek); and Mauricio Lopez, Eng., PMP, Deputy Director, Product Support (Héroux-Devtek). East Alton, IL – October 12, […]

At West Star Aviation, we are truly excited to embrace the next chapter of our story, a narrative that reflects not just our commitment to our customers but also our deep appreciation for the relationships we’ve built over the years. This endeavor isn’t merely about expanding our physical footprint; it’s about enhancing our operational capabilities […]

Aircraft Exterior Paint

In the aircraft industry, a first impression can shape a buyer. When it comes to aircraft, exterior paint is definitely the first thing a potential buyer will see.  Well-maintained exterior paint suggests the aircraft has been well maintained at first glance and shows pride of ownership. Exterior paint that is blemished or faded can lead […]

Bombardier has been working toward compliance with European Regulation No. 2024/590, which is to manage the substances that deplete the ozone layer. The regulation is currently applicable to EU operated aircraft.  The Halon 1211 Fire Extinguisher, a known substance to deplete the ozone layer, is going to be replaced by the Halotron® BrX fire extinguisher. […]

Mark White

RSM, California

Dave Godo

RSM, Ohio Valley

Mark Daniels
Tim Cane
Robbie Johnson

RSM, Mid Atlantic

Santiago Carol

RSM, Latin America

Steve Fleeman

RSM, Landing Gear

Contact Us

WSAA will be piloted at the East Alton, IL facility with the first round of apprentices anticipated to start in August 2024. For more information on West Star Aviation employment or WSAA apprentice selection criteria, please visit www.weststaraviation.com/wsaa-academy or contact Katie Johnson (katiejohnson@wsa.aero) or Dave Lagermann (dlagermann@wsa.aero).

Application & Selection Process

Before applying, please be aware of the standards of conduct for employment with West Star along with the strict requirements below while attending WSAA.

  • Working in Aviation requires a commit to being drug-free.  Pre-employment drug testing along with random and reasonable suspicion testing is required for all companies employing people working in safety sensitive positions. The position you are considering applying for is safety sensitive.  If hired, you must pass a DOT drug test to start working, if you fail the job offer is rescinded.  If you pass, you must remain drug-free during employment, failing a random or reasonable suspicion test may result in termination of employment.  Please note: marijuana is legal in certain states however the FAA follows Federal law where marijuana is illegal.  This means testing positive for marijuana, or any other illegal drug, will prevent you from working in Aviation. 
  • The first 7.5 months will follow a strict schedule: Monday – Friday 7:00am – 3:30pm (breaks and meal periods provided). 
  • The expectation is to arrive inside the learning center and clocked in at 7:00am.
  • While attending WSAA, no more than 4 hours a week can be missed.  Extenuating medical circumstances will be given full consideration with supporting documentation.
  • WSAA follows an FAA approved curriculum which has certain requirements including attendance. 
  • Testing for the FAA license at the conclusion of WSAA is required, along with passing.  Two opportunities to test will be provided, if needed.  Employment may terminate if the FAA license is not obtained.
  • Candidates will be contacted to complete pre-screening assessments and questionnaires. 
  • Qualified candidates will be contacted in late November and scheduled for a tour and interview with Hiring Managers at West Star Aviation in East Alton, IL.
  • To be qualified, candidates must pass the pre-screening process along with submitting a negative DOT drug test result.
  • Finalists will be selected after onsite interviews. Job offers will be extended in mid-December with a start date of January 9, 2024.
  • Pay while learning in the Academy will be $20 per hour.  Upon successfully graduating and obtaining your FAA license, pay will increase to $27 per hour.