AS9001 and ISO 9001 [2024]

In the aerospace industry, quality is paramount. That's why two of the most important standards for aerospace companies are AS9001 and ISO 9001. Both standards provide a framework for organizations to implement a quality management system (QMS). However, there are some key differences between the two standards.

In this article, we will compare AS9001 and ISO 9001, and discuss the pros and cons of each standard. We will also provide some guidance on which standard is right for your organization.

AS9001 and ISO 9001

1. What are AS9001 and ISO 9001?

AS9001 and ISO 9001 are both quality management systems (QMS) standards. They are designed to help organizations improve their products and services by meeting the needs of their customers and applicable regulatory requirements.

AS9001 is a specific type of ISO 9001 that is tailored to the aerospace industry. It includes additional requirements that are specific to the aerospace environment, such as:

• Requirements for the management of risk and safety
• Requirements for the management of suppliers
• Requirements for the management of environmental aspects

ISO 9001 is a generic QMS standard that can be applied to any organization, regardless of industry. It includes the following requirements:

• Establishing a quality policy and objectives
• Planning and implementing processes to achieve objectives
• Monitoring and measuring processes
• Taking action to improve processes

2. What are the similarities between AS9001 and ISO 9001?

Despite their differences, AS9001 and ISO 9001 have many similarities. Both standards are based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, and they both require organizations to:

• Identify their customers and their needs
• Establish processes to meet those needs
• Measure the performance of those processes
• Take action to improve the performance of those processes

3. What are the differences between AS9001 and ISO 9001?

The main difference between AS9001 and ISO 9001 is that AS9001 includes additional requirements that are specific to the aerospace industry. These additional requirements are designed to help organizations in the aerospace industry meet the specific needs of their customers and regulatory requirements.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between AS9001 and ISO 9001:

The right standard for you depends on your industry and your specific needs. If you are an organization in the aerospace industry, then AS9001 is the right standard for you. It will help you meet the specific needs of your customers and regulatory requirements.

If you are an organization in a different industry, then ISO 9001 is the right standard for you. It is a generic QMS standard that can be applied to any organization, regardless of industry.

5. How to get certified to AS9001 or ISO 9001

To become certified to AS9001 or ISO 9001, you must undergo an audit by a third-party certification body. The audit will assess your organization's compliance with the requirements of the standard.

If your organization is successfully audited, you will be issued a certificate of conformity. The certificate will be valid for three years.

To maintain your certification, you must undergo a surveillance audit every year. The surveillance audit will ensure that your organization is continuing to meet the requirements of the standard.

AS9001 and ISO 9001 are both valuable quality management systems standards. They can help organizations of all sizes improve their products and services by meeting the needs of their customers and applicable regulatory requirements.

6. Frequently asked questions

Question 1: What is the AS9001 standard?

Answer: The AS9001 standard is a set of requirements specific to the aerospace industry, focusing on quality management systems to ensure product safety and reliability.

Question 2: How does AS9001 differ from ISO 9001?

Answer: While both standards share a foundation, AS9001 includes additional requirements tailored to the aerospace sector, addressing specific risks and regulatory compliance.

Question 3: Why is AS9001 certification important for aerospace companies?

Answer: AS9001 certification is crucial for aerospace companies to meet industry-specific quality and safety standards, gain customer trust, and comply with regulatory requirements.

Question 4: Can a company be certified for both ISO 9001 and AS9001?

Answer: Yes, a company can pursue dual certification for both ISO 9001 and AS9001 by demonstrating compliance with the requirements of both standards.

Question 5: How can organizations integrate AS9001 and ISO 9001 into their quality management systems?

Answer: Organizations can integrate both standards by identifying common elements, aligning processes, and ensuring that the AS9001 requirements complement the ISO 9001 quality management system.

Question 6: What are the key benefits of implementing both AS9001 and ISO 9001?

Answer: Implementing both standards enhances product quality, increases customer satisfaction, facilitates global market access, and demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety in the aerospace industry.