In the aerospace industry, quality is more than a goal. It is a requirement that defines safety, reliability, and customer confidence. AS9100 certification is the globally recognized standard for aerospace quality management systems. It provides suppliers and manufacturers with a framework to meet strict regulatory and customer demands. For many U.S. aerospace suppliers, AS9100 certification is not optional. It is often a prerequisite to doing business with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and defense contractors.
If your organization is considering certification, the process can feel daunting. This AS9100 certification guide breaks down the essential steps, training needs, and audit preparation practices so you can approach the process with confidence.
What Is AS9100 Certification?
AS9100 is a quality management system standard specifically developed for the aerospace sector. It is based on ISO 9001, with additional requirements that address the unique needs of aerospace manufacturers and suppliers.
The certification covers product safety, risk management, configuration management, and counterfeit part prevention. According to the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG), AS9100 certification is a key requirement for companies that want to be included in the Online Aerospace Supplier Information System (OASIS) database, which many global aerospace companies use to vet suppliers IAQG (nofollow).
Why Certification Matters
Aerospace is one of the most highly regulated industries in the world. Certification demonstrates that your company can consistently deliver products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. A 2023 Deloitte aerospace report noted that defense and commercial aerospace demand is growing again, and suppliers that cannot demonstrate compliance may struggle to remain competitive Deloitte (nofollow).
Certification also drives internal benefits. Many companies report better process control, reduced defects, and improved efficiency after adopting an aerospace quality management system.
Step 1: Understand the Standard
The first step is building familiarity with the AS9100 requirements. Review the standard in detail and identify where your current processes align and where they fall short. Many companies begin with an internal gap analysis.
Questions to guide this stage include:
- How do I get AS9100 certified?
- Which processes already meet aerospace requirements?
- Where are there gaps in documentation or controls?
This initial self-assessment helps set a realistic timeline for the certification journey.
Step 2: Provide Aerospace Quality Management System Training
Employee understanding is critical for success. Certification is not just about documents and audits. It requires a culture of quality at all levels. Aerospace quality management system training ensures that staff understand the requirements and their roles in compliance.
Training may include:
- Awareness sessions for leadership and staff
- In-depth training for quality managers and process owners
- Audit preparation workshops for internal audit teams
Companies that invest in continuous training are better equipped to sustain compliance long term.
Step 3: Implement and Document Processes
Once training is in place, the next step is aligning operations with AS9100 requirements. This often includes updating quality manuals, creating risk management frameworks, and strengthening supplier oversight. Documentation is essential. Auditors will look for clear, traceable processes that demonstrate consistency.
Key documentation areas include:
- Configuration management procedures
- Risk analysis and mitigation records
- Supplier evaluation and monitoring programs
- Product safety and counterfeit prevention protocols
Step 4: Conduct Internal Audits
Before scheduling a certification audit, companies should perform internal audits using an AS9100 audit checklist. Internal audits serve two purposes: they validate that processes meet the standard and they prepare employees for auditor questions.
A thorough audit checklist should cover all process areas, from design and production to purchasing and risk management. This stage often uncovers nonconformities that can be corrected before the external audit.
Step 5: Management Review
AS9100 requires leadership to be actively engaged in the quality system. A formal management review ensures executives are involved in evaluating audit results, corrective actions, and improvement opportunities. This step also demonstrates to external auditors that quality is driven from the top down.
Step 6: Schedule the Certification Audit
Once internal audits and management reviews are complete, the next step is scheduling the external audit with a certification body. The audit process typically has two stages:
- Stage 1 Audit – A document review to confirm readiness.
- Stage 2 Audit – A full assessment of process implementation and effectiveness.
If nonconformities are found, corrective actions must be completed before certification is granted. Once approved, your company will be added to the OASIS database, opening the door to new aerospace opportunities.
Step 7: Maintain and Improve
Certification is not a one-time achievement. Ongoing surveillance audits ensure the system remains compliant. Continuous improvement should be embedded into daily operations. Many companies establish quality councils or continuous improvement teams to sustain progress.
Practical Tips for Success
- Start early: Give your organization time to train, prepare, and correct issues before the certification audit.
- Engage leadership: Executive commitment is critical to success.
- Use external support: Consulting or training partners can provide expertise and accelerate readiness.
- Leverage checklists: Detailed AS9100 audit checklists help teams stay on track.
AS9100 certification may seem complex, but with a structured approach it becomes manageable. By understanding the requirements, training employees, documenting processes, and preparing for audits, aerospace suppliers can achieve certification and position themselves as trusted partners in a highly competitive market.
If your organization is ready to take the next step, Effective Quality Services provides training, audits, and consulting to guide you through the aerospace certification steps in the USA. Contact us today to get started.
