AS9120: Excellence in Aerospace Supply Chain

Discover the key benefits and features of AS9120 Certification to ensure excellence in the aerospace supply chain.

In the competitive world of aerospace, there are standards concerning quality and reliability that need to be followed. It is in this aspect that AS9120 comes to be a standard in the quality management system of aerospace suppliers. Tailored to meet the needs of any organisation involved in the purchase, stocking, and delivery of parts or materials to any manufacturer, AS9120 ensures every single step of the supply chain operates with efficiency and safety.

The knowledge of AS9120 for companies operating in the Middle East opens many doors toward stronger partnerships, increased reputation, and long-term success.

What is AS9120?

The AS9120 standard is part of the AS9100 series that extends further to the particular requirements of aerospace suppliers. This standard gives guidance about process control on processes such as purchasing, traceability, inventory management, and risk mitigation to ensure the supply chain in aerospace will meet or exceed the highest expectations in this industry.

Why is AS9120 Important?

Aerospace involves precision, reliability, and quality control. One defective part can introduce serious operational risk. AS9120 minimizes the chances of these risks through:

  1. Supply Chain Integrity
    AS9120-accredited suppliers follow rigorous controls that ensure traceability and conformity throughout the chain.
  2. Customer Confidence
    The certificate is a guarantee that a company observes quality and compliance, hence giving confidence to clients and stakeholders.
  3. Market Advantage
    AS9120 certification sets you apart in the very competitive aerospace industry and makes your business a preferred supplier.

Key Features of AS9120

AS9120 targets the following important areas in supply chain management:

  • Traceability: The standard places great emphasis on the traceability of products and parts within the value chain for accountability.
  • Risk Management: Suppliers shall identify risks and adopt mitigation actions against disruption.
  • Document Control: Ensures the availability, and accuracy of documents.
  • Non-Conformance Management: Specify procedures to address and settle any issues in a timely manner.

Who does one need AS9120 Certification?

AS120 primarily targets organizations that store and distribute aerospace parts. In fact, AS9120 benefits the organizations storing and handling components for aviation, space, and defence, and even the resellers and distributors in obtaining AS9120.

AS9120 and Other Certifications

Several certifications complement AS9120, and most of the aerospace suppliers in the Middle East and UAE have started applying them along with AS9120, for instance:

  1. ISO 9001 Certification in the Middle East
    ISO 9001 Certification in the Middle East has been viewed as one of the most fundamental quality management systems that would complement AS9120 on the issue of quality assurance.
  2. ISO 14001 Certification in the Middle East
    Most aerospace suppliers combine AS9120 nowadays with the ISO 14001 Certification in the Middle East for some of the most important environmental management notifications on sustainability practices in the Middle East.

Steps to Achieving the AS9120 Certification

AS9120, an accreditation that sounds a little bit daunting, however, it is easily achievable by following the below-mentioned step-by-step process:

1. Know the Requirements

It is important to understand the needs of the AS9120 standard and its particular clauses.

2. Perform a Gap Analysis

Identify the area in which your current processes fall short of meeting the demands of AS9120.

3. Implement Necessary Changes

Develop your quality management system, paying particular attention to traceability, documentation, and risk management.

4. Train Your Team

Ensure your employees understand the needs of the AS9120 process and how they fit in.

5. Engage a Certification Body

Work with a well-qualified certification body that will walk you through the process.

AS9120 Certification Benefits

  1. Smooth Operations

This standardization of processes assists in minimizing errors and inefficiency within the operations of a certified organisation.

2. Global Recognition

AS9120 certification aligns with international aerospace standards, enabling easier collaboration with global partners.

  1. Better Risk Management

Organizations will minimize the risk of threats by taking remedial actions, which would enable smooth operations with minimal disruption.

4. Many more business opportunities

Many aerospace manufacturers and contractors require AS9120 certification from their suppliers, opening doors to new contracts.

Why Choose URS ME for AS9120 Certification?

URS ME has accreditation as a provider of management system certification services within the Middle East. With accumulated experience in the aerospace industry, URS ME offers :

  • Custom solutions tailored to your business needs.
  • Experienced Auditors
  • Globally recognized accreditation from UKAS.
  • A strong track record with over 55000 certified clients across various schemes and industries.
  • Based in the Middle East, URS ME has a global presence with 55 offices worldwide.
  • We understand regional market dynamics and regulations, providing localized expertise while ensuring global compliance.

Mostly, the AS9120 isn’t just about compliance with the industry standards; it is how you ensure readiness, resilience, and sustainability of the aerospace supply chain for the future.

Be it operational efficiencies, customer confidence, or differentiation of your service offering by competitive advantage, AS9120 is yet another step in that direction.

Ready to propel your aerospace business to newer heights? To learn more about AS9120 certification and the many ways in which it can benefit your organization, visit URS ME today.