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AS/EN 9100 “Aerospace Quality Management Systems”
Overview
In the high-stakes industry of aerospace manufacturing, where precision and reliability are paramount, adhering to rigorous quality standards isn’t just best practice—it’s essential. The AS/EN 9100 series stands as the cornerstone of quality management systems (QMS) in the aerospace sector. Designed to bolster reliability, ensure safety, and enhance customer satisfaction, AS/EN 9100 is a critical tool for aerospace entities striving to maintain competitive excellence and regulatory compliance.
AS/EN 9100 is part of a family of standards based on ISO 9001, specifically tailored for the aerospace industry. It includes requirements that are critical to aerospace but not necessarily to other industries, reflecting the unique demands of defence, space, and security sectors. This standard is maintained by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) and aims to standardise quality management system requirements internationally.
The key requirements and provisions of AS/EN 9100 include:
- Scope and Integration: Incorporates all ISO 9001 requirements with additional aerospace-specific requirements and emphasises the use of a process-oriented approach to meet regulatory and customer requirements.
- Leadership and Commitment: Top management must demonstrate leadership and commitment to the QMS, ensuring the quality objectives are aligned with the strategic direction of the organisation.
- Risk Management: Enhanced focus on risk management and risk-based thinking throughout the organisation’s processes, aiming to proactively identify and mitigate risks.
- Product Safety and Ethical Behaviour: Specific clauses on product safety and the promotion of ethical behaviour to address the critical safety and compliance aspects of aerospace products.
- Project Management: Requirements for project management across different stages of product realisation, ensuring systematic planning, operation, and control.
- Configuration Management: Detailed provisions for configuration management to ensure the integrity of product configurations, including design, requirement, and component changes>
- Control of External Providers: Specific requirements for the control of external providers and outsourced processes, ensuring that external work adheres to the quality standards of the QMS.
- Monitoring and Continuous Improvement: Ongoing monitoring of the QMS’s effectiveness, coupled with an emphasis on continuous improvement and the prevention of nonconformity.
AS/EN 9100 was first published in October 1999, has continually been updated since, and applies internationally.
Does AS/EN 9100 affect my business?
Implementing AS/EN 9100 can significantly impact businesses within the aerospace sector:
- Enhanced Product Quality and Safety: By adhering to stringent quality standards, businesses can enhance the reliability and safety of aerospace products, reducing the likelihood of critical failures.
- Increased Operational Efficiency: The standard promotes a systematic approach to project and risk management, which can lead to more efficient use of resources and reduction in waste.
- Market Access: AS/EN 9100 certification is often a prerequisite for doing business in the aerospace sector, particularly with major aerospace manufacturers and OEMs.
- Customer Satisfaction: Improved quality control and consistent processes lead to higher product quality, which enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.
AS/EN 9100 is not just a set of requirements but a blueprint for systematic quality improvement that can propel aerospace companies to new heights of operational excellence and reliability. By integrating AS/EN 9100 into their core operational practices, aerospace entities not only meet regulatory and customer requirements but also lay a foundation for sustained success in a competitive global marketplace.
Do I need AS/EN 9100 in my ISO Compliance Register?
Businesses that are directly affected by AS/EN 9100 include:
- OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers): Major players who design and assemble complete aircraft or spacecraft systems.
- Component Suppliers: Companies that manufacture specific components used in aircraft, such as engines, landing gear, and avionics.
- Material Suppliers: Providers of raw materials and specialised materials used in aerospace manufacturing.
- Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Providers: Services that ensure aircraft are maintained in safe, operational conditions.
If your business is categorised above then we strongly recommend including AS/EN 9100 in your ISO Compliance Register.
Legislation related to AS/EN 9100
Legislation related to AS/EN 9100 include:
- The Air Navigation Order 2016
- Civil Aviation Act 1982
- Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007
- Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
More information
Visit the AS/EN 9100 article on the iaqg.org website.
Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and add this article to your Register.