.jpg "AS9100 Certification: What is It and Why It’s Non-Negotiable for Your Brand?")
The key to getting guaranteed success for any business is by earning loyal customers. What is the best way to get certified by a globally accredited body? In the aerospace industry, quality, safety, and compliance are not just requirements—they’re the foundation of your business.
This is where the AS9100 standard becomes non-negotiable. As per a report, “The global AS9100 certification service market is projected to reach USD 15,310 million by 2031" (source). But what is the AS9100 standard, and why is it crucial for your brand?
In this post, we will explore in detail what this certification is, steps to obtain it, and how this certification can help your business stand out in the competition.
What is the AS9100 Standard?
Let’s start with the definition first. The AS9100 standard is a globally recognized quality management system (QMS) designed specifically for the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries.
As per a report, “The IAQG established AS9100 in 1999 to create a unified and internationally recognized quality standard for the aerospace sector” (source).
It is based on the ISO 9001 framework, but this includes extra rules that are crucial for the aerospace industry's risk management, supply chain, and ensuring product quality and safety.
Case Study of AS9100 Standard Adoption (Source)
A Middle Eastern aerospace company assessed its AS9100 standard implementation using surveys and data analysis. Experts evaluated key factors like leadership, employee engagement, and compliance.
Method
Used a mix of numbers and expert opinions to study AS9100 implementation.
Created a questionnaire based on ISO 9001 research and improved it with expert advice.
Tested the questionnaire with quality engineers to make sure it was clear and reliable.
Shared the questionnaire through Google Forms with professionals working in AS9100-certified companies.
Analyze responses to find the key factors that help in successful AS9100 implementation.
Ranked these key factors based on their importance using a structured method.
Followed ethical guidelines by keeping responses private and getting consent.
Ensured accurate and trustworthy results through a careful research process.
Implementation
The company applied AS9100 guidelines but faced challenges in conformity (2.1/5) and employee efficiency (1.3/5). Stronger areas included customer loyalty (4.39/5) and innovation (3.83/5).
Results
The study recommended stricter quality control, better leadership involvement, and improved awareness of external business factors. Strengthening these areas would enhance compliance, reduce defects, and boost overall quality, ensuring long-term success in the aerospace industry.
How to Achieve AS9100 Standard Certification
Earning AS9100 certification is a multi-step process that requires dedication and commitment to quality. Here’s how you can achieve it:
Understand the Requirements
The first step is to get familiar with what the AS9100 standard entails. This includes compliance with:
Quality management principles
Risk-based thinking
Product safety and reliability
Supplier management
Regulatory and customer-specific requirements
Understanding these core elements will help you prepare for implementation.
Conduct a Gap Analysis
The next step to achieve the AS9100 standard is to access where your company currently stands. This gap analysis helps you identify the areas where your processes fall short as per AS9100 requirements. This step allows you to create a plan for necessary improvements.
Implement a Quality Management System (QMS)
As you analyze the gap between the desired standard and your current process, the next step is to implement a robust QMS as per the AS9100 standard. This involves:
Defining roles and responsibilities
Implementing process control mechanisms
Establishing supplier and risk management systems
Ensuring product traceability and safety measures
Train Your Team
Everyone in your organization plays a major role in maintaining quality. So you must ensure proper training programs so that they have a clear idea about what the AS9100 standard is and how they can contribute to compliance.
Conduct Internal Audits
After the QMS is implemented as per the standard, the next step is to analyze it’s efficiency. This will help you identify any non-conformities and ensure a smoother certification process.
Select an Accredited Certification Body
Certification must come from a recognized certification body that is eligible to conduct AS9100 audits. The certifying body will assess your QMS and determine whether your organization meets the standard or not.
Undergo the Certification Audit
The certification audit typically involves two stages:
Stage 1: The auditor conducts an in-depth assessment of your processes and ensures they align with AS9100 requirements.
Stage 2: If any non-compliance is found during the audit, you will get a chance to rectify them within a given time.
Once you pass the audit, you receive your AS9100 certification.
The Benefits of Obtaining AS9100 Certification
Investing in AS9100 certification is not just about meeting a requirement—it delivers tangible benefits that can elevate your brand’s reputation and business opportunities.
Here’s how:
Improved Product Quality and Reliability
The AS9100 standard ensures that your products or services meet high aerospace standards. This reduces defects, enhances reliability, and improves customer satisfaction.
Competitive Advantage
In the aerospace industry, being AS9100-certified gives you a clear competitive edge. Many companies require their suppliers to hold this certification, making it a key factor in choosing you over others.
Enhanced Risk Management
The AS9100 standard places mainly emphasis on risk assessment. This certification helps you identify potential risks early and allows you to implement preventive measures, reducing costly errors and safety incidents.
Better Supply Chain Management
AS9100 ensures smooth supply chain management. Your suppliers also adhere to the strict quality standards, which reduce wastage and help you provide quality product and service to your clients every time.
Increased Customer Trust and Satisfaction
In the aerospace industry, trust is everything. If you follow AS9100 standards strictly, delivering quality products is a breeze. This leads to improved trust and better client satisfaction, safety, and regulatory compliance, giving customers confidence in your products and services.
Why AS9100 Certification is Non-Negotiable for Your Brand
If you operate in the aerospace industry, AS9100 certification is not optional—it’s essential. Here’s why:
Regulatory Compliance: Many aerospace companies and defense contractors require their suppliers to be AS9100 certified.
Stronger Business Reputation: Being AS9100 certified shows your dedication to excellence, setting you apart from competitors.
Access to More Business Opportunities: Without AS9100, you may be disqualified from contracts with major industry players.
Final Thoughts
If you want to thrive in the aerospace industry, gain new clients, and make your operation error-free, opting for AS9100 certification might be the best way to do so.
Follow the above post to understand what the AS9100 standard is, explore the process, and position your brand as a trusted leader in the aerospace industry with confidence.
Contact KSQA and embrace this globally recognized certification to demonstrate your commitment to excellence and discover new opportunities in aviation today!
