The aerospace industry has always captivated the minds of both scientists and explorers. With its cutting-edge technology and numerous achievements, it plays an important role in shaping the future. From airplanes to rockets, the aerospace industry has forever changed the way we explore and understand the universe.
But behind all its awe, there lies a critical element of safety and reliability in aerospace operations. This is where AS9100 certification enters the picture. But what is AS9100 certification? How does it benefit the aerospace industry?
In this blog, we will delve deeper into the world of AS9100 and explore its significance in the aerospace industry.
AS9100 Certification
AS9100 is an international Quality Management System (QMS) standard. It is designed specifically for the aerospace industry. It highlights quality management requirements for the Aviation, Space, and Defense organizations.
Developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG), AS9100 is built upon the ISO 9001 framework with additional requirements for aerospace organizations.
The main purpose of AS9100 is to ensure aerospace organizations establish and maintain effective quality management systems. In the aerospace industry, the safety, quality, and reliability of products and services are an absolute necessity. This is where the AS9100 standard provides guidelines to meet globally recognized industry benchmarks.
Nowadays, aerospace suppliers and manufacturers require compliance with AS9100. It has become a need of the hour to get AS9100 certification. URS Middle East is here to help your organization get AS9100 certified.
Note: It is important to note that the standard is “AS9100” and NOT “ISO 9100”. It is a common misconception to refer to it as the latter. The AS9100 is NOT developed by the ISO but by the IAQG. It is built on the ISO 9001 requirements for a Quality Management System with specific guidelines for the aerospace industry. The latest revision was AS9100 Rev D in 2016.
Importance of AS9100
AS9100 emphasizes the importance of robust processes, product safety, and adherence to international quality standards. If you run an organization in the aerospace industry, getting an AS9100 certification serves as a powerful tool. It opens doors to new business opportunities and provides a competitive edge for your organization.
The QMS requirements of the aerospace industry are different than that of other industries. This is exactly why AS9100 was developed in the first place. Organizations strive to get AS9100 certified so that they can stand out from the crowd. It demonstrates their commitment to providing reliable products and services.
What is the AS9100 certification?
AS9100 standard provides specific guidelines for the safe design, manufacturing, and distribution of aerospace components. Hence, getting an AS9100 certification shows that your organization meets global safety standards related to the aerospace industry.
The worldwide expansion of the aviation and aerospace industries is on the rise. In the Middle East and UAE, the aerospace sector is expanding at a noticeable rate. This is mainly due to the economic position and strategic location of the nation. Hence, there is a high demand to get AS9100 certification in Dubai and within the UAE.
Understanding what is AS9100 certification is the first step. The AS9100 clearly defines the requirements to be met. The next step is to implement a QMS that adheres to the standard. Getting your employees certified with AS9100 internal auditor training or AS9100 lead auditor training can become beneficial to conduct an internal audit of your QMS. A third-party certification audit is conducted and if requirements are met, AS9100 certification is issued.
Who should get AS9100 certification?
Unlike ISO 9001 which is applicable for any industry, AS9100 certification is adopted by organizations in the aerospace industry only. It is not a legal requirement, but being AS9100 certified adds value and gives a competitive advantage. The standard is considered a necessity by certain aerospace regulators when choosing manufacturers and suppliers.
Benefits of AS9100 certification
Getting an AS9100 certification in Dubai comes with its advantages. Implementing a QMS can be a complex process, but it will benefit your organization in so many ways. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of being AS9100 certified.
- Competitive advantage
Having an AS9100 certification will give you a competitive edge. Providing safe and reliable services will set you apart from your competitors. This will help you get better contracts and business opportunities.
2. Enhance customer satisfaction
Being AS9100 certified assures customers about your QMS. It shows that your organization values customer satisfaction. Having a customer-centric approach is always considered an advantage. It is important to understand their requirements and respond to feedback regularly.
3. Increased reputation
Obtaining AS9100 certification in Dubai from a recognized body like URS will improve the reputation of your organization. It shows that your QMS meets the global benchmarks of the aerospace industry. A customer or supplier will be more willing to trade with an AS9100 certified organization than one without it. It will help you win more customers and increase brand value.
4. Better relationships with suppliers and vendors
It is easy to attract new suppliers if you’re organization has AS9100 certification. This will make them trust your products, services, and practices. It will help maintain existing supplier relationships and build new ones for a long period.
5. Employee awareness and training
It is essential for employees to understand the requirements of the standard and the role they play in its effective management. Organizations can opt for AS9100 internal auditor training or AS9100 lead auditor training for their employees. Selecting the training program should be based on the individual’s skill and competence. This will help them conduct internal audits of your QMS and identify problem areas and come up with solutions. Conducting successful internal audits will make your third-party certification audits smoother.
URS AS9100 certification in Dubai
Our qualified auditors will conduct a certification audit and assess if your QMS meets the requirements of the standard. The AS9100 certification is issued if the requirements are met.
The time taken to get AS9100 certification in Dubai depends on how you implement and operate your QMS. The more complex your organizational structure is, the more time it will take to implement the standard. This leads to a longer audit and certification process. Upon receiving certification, your organization will be registered on the Online Aerospace Supplier Information System (OASIS) database.
URS Middle East offers AS9100 certification in Dubai. So if you’re a company in the aerospace industry and aren’t AS9100 certified, contact us today! Also, check our Training Calendar for AS9100 internal auditor training and AS9100 lead auditor training. Fill the form and book your slots today!