Every industry has its own set of standards and quality requirements. The aerospace and defense industry, in particular, is heavily regulated from a quality perspective.
The AS9100 standard specifies the quality management system requirements for designing, developing and manufacturing safe and reliable aerospace products, including components, parts and assemblies.
Aviation, space and defense are incredibly diverse and complex sectors that encompass everything from spacecrafts and airliners to unpowered gliders, space vehicles, missiles, drones and more. Hence, the quality and inspection requirements, in addition to compliance and business issues, necessitate that the sectors align with international inspection standards, like the AS9100.
The AS9100 standard, established in 1999, has undergone several revisions since. The AS9100 Revision D is the latest revision adopted throughout the supply chain.
The AS9100D certification also applies to companies that provide post-delivery support, such as spare parts and maintenance in the aerospace and defense market.
What Are The Benefits Of AS9100D
Once a company has adopted the AS9100D standard, the company’s details and certification are submitted to the online aerospace supplier information system OASIS database, which large OEMs use to find new suppliers. Therefore, acquiring this certification can be an incredible avenue for lead generation.
Other benefits include:
Market Acceptance
AS9100D has been endorsed by major Aerospace regulators, like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), NASA and U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).
Industry suppliers must maintain an effective QMS in accordance with the regulatory requirements of ISO9001 and AS9100 to ensure that their products meet international standards and requirements. The certification sets industry benchmarks for sourcing suppliers and gives them global recognition as reputable suppliers.
Customer Satisfaction
One of the main principles upon which AS9100D is founded is the need to ensure customer expectations are met. With the AS9100D certification, suppliers can provide products that consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements and deliver reliable services.
Reduced Operating Costs
ASD Standards largely focus on continual improvement of processes. As a result, the AS9100D standard sets forth operating standards that support quality product realization and generate operational efficiencies.
Final Thoughts
Given the wide range of applications that the aerospace industry operates in and the higher risks associated with its products, aerospace companies must partner with suppliers who conform to the AS9100D quality management system.
After all, independent verification against an internationally recognized standard speaks volumes and assures companies that suppliers successfully meet the required industry standards.
Our AS9100 certification consultants can help you get started. In addition to offering expert AS9100D consulting services, we also offer ISO 9001 consulting services and ISO 13485 certification consulting.
Call us today for more information.