AS 9100 Certification Makes A Difference In Aerospace Manufacturing

We at Intrex Aerospace are very proud of our AS 9100 certification. We know this certification sets us apart from many contract manufacturers.  The AS9100 certification is a widely recognized quality management system standard and is a mark of excellence for manufacturers in the aerospace & defense industry. The AS9100 standard is based on the ISO 9001 standard but includes additional requirements specific to aerospace & defense manufacturing. AS9100 certification makes a difference.

Why have an AS 9100 certification?

AS9100 is an aerospace standard (AS) released by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) based on the internationally recognized standard ISO 9001. The International Aerospace Quality Group developed it in collaboration with aerospace manufacturers. AS9100 ensures that aerospace manufacturers maintain effective quality management systems to meet the industry’s demanding requirements. AS 9100 makes a difference.

ISO 9001 is an internationally recognized Quality Management system standard published by ISO (the International Organization for Standardization). The requirements are recognized globally as an acceptable basis for implementing a QMS, and it was last updated in 2015, so it is referred to as ISO 9001:2015.

History of AS 9100

 The AS9100 certification originated in the year 1999. It was developed as a specialized standard for the aerospace industry to address the unique quality management needs and requirements of aerospace companies. The International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) spearheaded the development of AS9100 in collaboration with major aerospace manufacturers and industry stakeholders.

AS9100 was initially released as AS9100 Rev. A in October 1999. Since then, it has undergone. revisions and updates to align with the ISO 9001 standard changes and to incorporate evolving industry requirements. The latest version was released in September 2021 is AS9100D,

It’s important to note that AS9100 certification is not a static standard but a continuous one, with periodic revisions and updates to keep pace with changes in the aerospace industry and to maintain its relevance and effectiveness in ensuring quality management in the aerospace sector.

The AS9100 standard covers 6 major areas of quality management, including:

• Management commitment
• Risk management
• Configuration management
• Supply chain management
• Product realization
• Measurement, analysis, and improvement

How does a company get an AS9100 certification?

Certification to AS9100 is typically performed by certification bodies or registrars (such as Platinum or Orion) accredited by an internationally recognized accreditation body. These certification bodies are independent organizations that assess and verify that a company’s QMS conforms to the AS9100 requirements.

The accrediting certification bodies for AS9100 certification may vary, depending on the region or country. Some well-known international accreditation bodies include the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board (ANAB). These accreditation bodies ensure that certification bodies operate by recognized standards and guidelines for certification processes and practices.

The certification process involves several steps, including an initial assessment, documentation, review of on-site audits, and ongoing surveillance audits. The certification body evaluates the company’s QMS and assesses its implementation, effectiveness, and compliance with the AS9100 requirements. The certification body issues an AS9100 certificate if the company meets the criteria.  Many companies will get an ISO 9001 certification before seeking an AS9100 certification.

Why is working with an AS9100-certified company is important?

Intrex Aerospace knows the AS9100 certification is highly regarded in the aerospace industry. It demonstrates our organization’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. It helps us monitor and maintain a robust quality management system, enhances our competitiveness, and meets the stringent requirements of the aerospace sector’s customers, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders. AS9100 certification makes a difference.

If you would like more information about Intrex Aerospace, please click here.