Clause 9.2 of AS9100 Rev D requires organizations to establish and maintain an internal audit program that ensures their quality management system (QMS) conforms to both the organization’s requirements and the standard itself. It also confirms that the QMS is effectively implemented and maintained. Internal audits are not just a certification checkbox. They are a […]
In aerospace and defense, precision and control are non-negotiable. Every product must meet strict requirements, and every change needs to be documented and verified. This is the foundation of AS9100 configuration management. Configuration management ensures that the physical and functional characteristics of a product or service are clearly defined, consistently documented, and carefully maintained throughout […]
Unpacking the AS9100 Series PDCA Structure: The Continuous Cycle Driving Aerospace Quality Introduction The AS9100 series of standards, which includes AS9100D, AS9110, and AS9120, is the aerospace industry’s foundation for quality management. Built upon ISO 9001, the AS9100 series strengthens requirements to address the high stakes of aviation, space, and defense manufacturing. At the heart […]
Introduction: Why Risk Management Matters in AS9100 In the aerospace and defense industry, risk management is the backbone of safety, reliability, and compliance. The AS9100 Quality Management System places strong emphasis on identifying, assessing, and controlling risks at every stage of the product and service lifecycle. From design and manufacturing to supplier management and maintenance, […]
Achieving and maintaining AS9100 certification is a crucial requirement for organizations operating in the aerospace and defense industries. One of the most common concerns for quality managers and compliance teams is what kind of AS9100 audit questions auditors will ask during surveillance, recertification, or internal audits. Understanding these questions and preparing evidence-based responses can make […]
Steps to AS9100 Certification (That Actually Work in the Real World) For aerospace and defense suppliers, achieving AS9100 certification isn’t just a checkbox, it’s a business requirement. Whether you’re bidding on government contracts or supplying major OEMs, certification under AS9100 demonstrates that your organization can meet the stringent demands of the aerospace industry. But what […]
Introduction – The Counterfeit Issue Counterfeit parts are a growing threat in aerospace and defense. AS9100 Clause 8.1.4 was introduced to address this critical risk with structured prevention methods. This guide breaks down what the clause requires, how to comply, and how to prepare your Quality Management System (QMS) for audit success. What Is AS9100 […]
Counterfeit parts in aerospace are no longer a theoretical risk—they’re an active and escalating threat that undermines aircraft reliability, operator safety, and national defense capabilities. The FAA estimates that approximately 520,000 counterfeit or unapproved parts enter aircraft annually—roughly 2% of installed components (connectorsupplier.com). These components, which range from semiconductors and fasteners to composite structures and […]
Step-by-Step: AS9100 Internal Audit Process 1. Audit Planning 2. Preparing the Audit Gather relevant documentation, such as: Use an AS9100 internal audit checklist to guide consistency. 3. Conducting the Audit 4. Documenting Audit Findings Capture: Use a standardized internal audit report template to record results. 5. Corrective Action Process 6. Management Review & Follow-Up Audit […]
AS9100 quality management. As the aerospace and defense industries evolve, the standards that govern quality management systems must adapt. The AS9100:2016 (also known as 9100:2016) revision represents one of the most significant updates to the standard, reflecting modern challenges in quality, risk, and operational complexity. Below, we address the most frequently asked questions related to […]
