Counterfeit Parts in Aerospace: The Growing Threat Undermining Supply Chain Integrity and Mission Safety

Counterfeit Parts in Aerospace: The Growing Threat Undermining Supply Chain Integrity and Mission Safety

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 […]

AS9100 Internal Audit Process: What You Need to Know for Aerospace QMS Compliance

AS9100 Internal Audit Process: What You Need to Know for Aerospace QMS Compliance

Step-by-Step: AS9100 Internal Audit Process 1. Audit Planning Sample sizing ensures auditors collect enough objective evidence to draw valid conclusions about process performance. AS9100D doesn’t specify a fixed number of records—it requires a risk-based approach. Higher-risk processes demand deeper review and direct observation, while stable, low-risk areas can rely on smaller samples. 2. Preparing the […]

AS9100:2016 Quality Management: Why It Matters for Aerospace and Defense

AS9100:2016 Quality Management: Why It Matters for Aerospace and Defense

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 […]

Achieving AS9100 Compliance: A Strategic Guide to Audit Preparation

Achieving AS9100 Compliance: A Strategic Guide to Audit Preparation

In the aerospace industry, attaining AS9100 compliance is more than a certification—it’s a testament to an organization’s commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement. Preparing for an AS9100 audit requires a structured approach to ensure that all aspects of the Quality Management System (QMS) align with the stringent requirements of the standard. Understanding AS9100 Compliance […]