ISO AS9100/AS9100D Certification – Aerospace Quality Management | Accredify Global

Evolution of ISO AS9100/AS9100D Certification

ISO AS9100 was first introduced in 1999 by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) as a quality management standard for the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries. It is based on ISO 9001 but includes additional safety, reliability, and risk management requirements specific to the aerospace sector.

The latest version, AS9100D (2016), aligns with ISO 9001:2015, incorporating risk-based thinking, counterfeit parts prevention, and improved supply chain controls.

What is ISO AS9100/AS9100D - Aerospace Quality Management (AQMS)?

EN9100:2018 — also called AS9100D or AS9100 — is the most recent standard for organizations that design, develop or provide aviation, space and defense products and services, including parts, components and assemblies. The standard was prepared by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) with the help of representatives from aviation, space and defense companies in the Americas, Asia/Pacific and Europe.

Like past versions of AS9100, EN9100:2018 standardizes quality management system requirements for companies involved with the aerospace industry and supply chain. The standard does so by building off general ISO 9001 standards for quality management systems, adding industry-specific guidelines for the safe development, production and distribution of quality aerospace parts and products.

AS9100 certification can be achieved by all levels of the supply chain by organizations around the world to improve quality, cost and delivery performance. This is accomplished through the reduction or elimination of organization-unique requirements, effective implementation of the quality management system and wider application of good business practices.

In addition to AS9100, which is a general aerospace industry standard, the IAQG has also created two more specific aerospace management standards: AS9110 and AS9120. The former, Aerospace Management Systems for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Stations, adds additional requirements to AS9100 relating to the maintenance of commercial, private and military aircraft. The latter, Aerospace Management Systems for Stockist Distributors, adds requirements for the sourcing and production of aerospace components and materials. Saara can assess compliance with AS9100, AS9110 and AS9120.

Because AS9100 certification helps ensure an organization has adequate quality management systems in place, many aerospace manufacturers and suppliers will work only with certified partners. As a result, AS9100 certification is important for any aerospace-related company to consider.

ISO AS9100/AS9100D is an internationally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard for the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries. It ensures:

• Enhanced product safety & reliability
• Strict regulatory compliance & risk management
• Streamlined supply chain operations
• Reduced defects & improved efficiency

Who Needs ISO AS9100/AS9100D Certification?

Because AS9100 is an industry-specific quality management system standard, it's mainly used by companies that provide products and services for the defense, space and aviation industries. The AS9100D standard applies to any organization that works in the aerospace industry or with partners in the aerospace industry, including:

• Manufacturers of aircraft components and materials
• Designers of aerospace parts and assemblies
• Quality management organizations working with aerospace manufacturers
• Other companies working in the aerospace industry regularly or irregularly

Though not required by law, AS9100 certification is often required for effective participation in the aviation, space and defense businesses. Certification to AS9100 standards can give you access to large OEMs and other parts of the supply chain.

Importance of ISO AS9100/AS9100D Certification

With over 75% of aerospace manufacturers requiring AS9100 compliance, the certification provides:

• 50% reduction in production defects.
• 35% increase in supply chain efficiency.
• Stronger regulatory compliance & customer confidence.
• Enhanced risk mitigation & operational resilience.

ISO AS9100/AS9100D and Its Major Aspects in Business

ISO AS9100/AS9100D strengthens business performance in:

• Quality control & defect reduction.
• Supplier risk management & traceability.
• Regulatory & contractual compliance.
• Counterfeit parts prevention & cybersecurity.
• Process optimization & waste reduction.

The Principles of ISO AS9100/AS9100D Certification

The principles of ISO AS9100/AS9100D include:

1. Customer Focus – Delivering safe & reliable aerospace products.
2. Risk-Based Thinking – Proactively identifying & mitigating risks.
3. Supply Chain Management – Ensuring component quality & traceability.
4. Regulatory Compliance – Meeting FAA, EASA, and DOD requirements.
5. Continuous Improvement – Enhancing efficiency & defect prevention.

Checklist for ISO AS9100/AS9100D Certification

• Develop an Aerospace Quality Management System (QMS)
• Implement risk-based quality control measures
• Establish supplier & counterfeit part detection procedures
• Conduct internal audits & process optimizations
• Train employees on ISO AS9100 best practices
• Implement emergency response plans
• Maintain records and documentation

Is ISO AS9100/AS9100D Certification mandatory or a legal requirement?

ISO AS9100 is not legally required but is mandatory for suppliers and manufacturers working with:

• Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin & other aerospace giants
• Government & military aerospace contracts
• FAA, EASA, and Department of Defense (DOD) regulated sectors