AS9100
Aerospace
AS9100 is the internationally recognized global standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS) in the aerospace industry. It confirms an organization’s commitment to improving quality, delivering more efficient operations, and improving customer satisfaction.
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AS9100 Certification Services
Navigating the quality and regulatory demands of the aerospace supply chain requires an efficient, recognized certification process. AS9100 certification services from Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR) help aerospace manufacturers, and assembly shops, demonstrate commitment to safety, reliability, and continuous improvement. PJR also offers AS9120 certifications services for distributors and AS9110 certification services for maintenance, repair and overhaul organizations.
As a leading accredited certification body, PJR partners with companies to conduct initial certification audits, surveillance audits, and seamless certification transfers. This guide provides an overview of AS9100 standard expectations, cost considerations, timelines, and how to achieve registration with PJR, an ANAB-accredited registrar.
What Is AS9100?
AS9100 (currently AS9100D) is the internationally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard developed specifically for the aviation, space, and defense industries. Maintained by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG), AS9100 builds upon the ISO 9001 baseline framework by adding specialized requirements for safety, risk management, and traceability.
Essential Terminology
- Quality Management System (QMS): A structured system of processes, policies, and documented controls designed to deliver consistent, compliant products.
- Aerospace Quality: An elevated standard of quality control where defects can lead to catastrophic mission failure, necessitating robust risk controls and part traceability.
- AS9100 vs ISO 9001: While ISO 9001 provides general QMS requirements, AS9100 incorporates approximately 100 additional aerospace-specific clauses focusing on areas like product safety, counterfeit parts prevention, and risk management.
Who Needs AS9100 Certification?
AS9100 certification is applicable to organizations at all levels of the aerospace and defense supply chain, including original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), component suppliers, and service providers. AS9110 certification is for maintenance and repair stations, and AS9120 is for material distributors.
Key Commercial Drivers
- OEM & Prime Contractor Mandates: Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers are frequently required by major primes (e.g., Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Airbus) to hold an active AS9100 certification as a standard condition of contract award.
- Approved Supplier List Inclusion: Certification is often a requirement to be listed on OEM Approved Vendor Lists (AVL).
- Global Credibility: Achieving certification signals operational maturity, mitigating regulatory exposure and opening doors to defense and international aerospace markets.
AS9100 Certification Requirements
During a registration audit, PJR auditors evaluate your QMS to verify that your business consistently follows documented, repeatable, and risk-averse procedures.
Core AS9100 Audit Requirements
- System Documentation & Control: Maintaining documented policies, procedures, operational controls, and retention records.
- Risk-Based Thinking: Formal evaluation and mitigation of operational and supply chain risks.
- Internal Audits & Management Reviews: Ongoing evaluation of your QMS through structured internal audits and executive management reviews.
- Configuration Management & Traceability: Ensuring traceability in accordance with customer and regulatory requirementsclear part configuration controlsand strict operational changes.
Quick Comparison: AS9100 vs ISO 9001
| Requirement Area | ISO 9001 Baseline | AS9100 Aerospace Standard |
| Product Safety | General guidelines | Mandatory product safety risk management |
| Counterfeit Parts Control | Minimal focus | Mandatory prevention, detection & quarantine protocols |
| Configuration Management & Traceability | Standard record-keeping | Required configuration management controls & traceability throughout product lifecycle |
| On-Time Delivery | General performance monitoring | Mandatory metric tracking, target setting & CAR response |
Who Issues AS9100 Certification?
AS9100 certificates are issued by independent, accredited third-party Certification Bodies (Registrars) such as Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR).
Accredited Certification Matters
- Who Issues the Certificate: PJR conducts the formal Stage 1 and Stage 2 certification audits and issues the recognized certificate.
- What Accreditation Means: Because PJR is accredited by ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board), we are regularly audited to ensure audit technical accuracy, independence, and operational impartiality.
- Verifying Authenticity: All legitimate AS9100 certificates issued by PJR are registered in the official IAQG Online Aerospace Supplier Information System (OASIS) database.
AS9100 Certification Services Offered by PJR
PJR offers comprehensive certification services tailored to meet your organization’s operational structure and scheduling needs:
Audit Readiness & Certification
- Pre-Assessment: Optional preliminary reviews to evaluate your system readiness before the formal certification audit.
- Stage 1 & Stage 2 Registration Audits: Evaluation of QMS documentation and on-site implementation to grant initial certification.
- Surveillance & Recertification: Ongoing annual audits to support continuous improvement and maintain valid 3-year certification cycles.
Seamless Certification Transfers
If you are dissatisfied with your current registrar, transferring your AS9100 certificate to PJR is simple, hassle-free, and incurs no mandatory transfer penalties.
Flexible Engagement Models
- Single-Site & Multi-Site Certifications: Audit frameworks scaled for single manufacturing sites, corporate headquarters, or international multi-site networks.
- Integrated Management Systems: Combined audits for AS9100, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or ISO 45001 to save time and audit costs.
How to Get AS9100 Certified
Achieving AS9100 certification through PJR follows a structured, standard process:
- Scope Definition: Identify facilities, processes, and product lines included in your certification scope.
- QMS Implementation: Develop and implement your QMS processes aligned to AS9100 standards.
- Internal Audits & Management Review: Perform a full cycle of internal audits and conduct a management review meeting.
- Stage 1 Audit (Readiness Review): PJR reviews system documentation and operational readiness.
- Stage 2 Audit (On-Site Registration Audit): PJR evaluates complete system implementation and compliance.
- Corrective Actions (If required): Address any audit nonconformities identified during Stage 2.
- Certificate Issuance: Receive your ANAB-accredited AS9100 certificate and inclusion in the IAQG OASIS database.
How Much Does It Cost to Get AS9100 Certified?
The cost of AS9100 certification is calculated using standardized international guidelines governing mandatory auditor time (audit days).
Factors Influencing Audit Fees
- Number of Employees & Facilities: Larger employee counts and multi-site structures increase required audit duration.
- Scope & Technical Complexity: Specialized manufacturing, design, or assembly processes require dedicated audit time.
- Travel & Expenses: PJR utilizes a nationwide network of local auditors to keep travel costs to a minimum.
For a detailed outline of what goes into cost, visit PJR’s guide on How Much Does It Cost To Get Certified?.
How Long Does It Take to Get AS9100 Certified?
The typical timeline to achieve AS9100 certification ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on your company’s internal readiness and QMS maturity.
- Standard Timeline (6 to 12 Months): Recommended for organizations establishing an aerospace QMS for the first time.
- Accelerated Timeline (3 to 6 Months): Achievable for companies transitioning from mature ISO 9001 systems.
AS9100 Certification for Individuals
Organizations frequently ask about individual AS9100 certifications:
- Companies: Only facilities, legal entities, or operational sites are eligible to earn AS9100 Certification.
- Individuals: Individual professionals do not receive AS9100 company certificates, but can obtain Auditor Qualifications (such as AS9100 Lead Auditor or Internal Auditor certificates) via accredited training courses.
Why Choose Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR)?
Selecting the right certification body ensures your certification is respected globally by primary aerospace buyers.
The PJR Advantage
- ANAB Accreditation: Recognized globally across North America, Europe, and Asia.
- IAQG OASIS Registration: Full listing of your organization on the official aerospace supplier database.
- No Hidden Fees: Clear, upfront quotes with no hidden administrative add-ons.
- Local Auditor Network: Strategically located auditors across the country to minimize travel expenses whenever possible.
- Free Client Support Resources: Access to webinars and technical guidance papers. Client spotlights are also available to those who wish to have one.
Useful Resources & Related Topics
- How Much Does It Cost To Get Certified?
- Simplifying Certificate Transfers to PJR
- ISO 9001 Standard Overview
Request a Free AS9100 Certification Quote
Ready to take the next step toward AS9100 certification or transfer your existing certificate to PJR?
- Call Us Direct: Speak with an account executive at 1-800-800-7910 or (248) 422-3013.
- Email Us: Send your inquiries to pjr@pjr.com.
- Get a Free Quote: Complete the quick online form above to receive a no-obligation quote customized to your organization.
Get Your Certification Issued in 4 Easy Steps
Partnering with Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR) means a clear, supportive path from preparation to certification and beyond. Our process is designed to make achieving and maintaining certification simple, efficient, and rewarding.
Application & Optional Pre-Assessment
Begin your certification journey by submitting an application and receiving a tailored proposal from PJR. Some clients may also request an optional pre-assessment or readiness review to evaluate preparedness before the official audit. This step helps identify potential gaps early, improving the likelihood of a successful certification.
Why Choose PJR as Your Certification Partner
Our team of experts are with you every step of your certification journey.
- Fully accredited and globally recognized - PJR is accredited by leading bodies including ANAB, UKAS, JAB, and ACCREDIA, ensuring your certification is respected worldwide.
- Value-driven auditing approach - Our Process Performance Auditing (PPA) method goes beyond checklists, focusing on how your processes perform and drive continual improvement.
- Industry-experienced auditors - Our auditors understand your industry’s unique needs and provide meaningful insights that add real value.
- Personalized, human service - When you call PJR, you speak with real people…not automated systems. You will always have personalized service from our dedicated scheduling team, ensuring quick, reliability, and thoughtful support throughout your certification journey.
- Global reach with a local touch - Whether you are a small business or a multinational organization, PJR offers efficient, flexible service tailored to your size, scope, and location.
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Expertise for Every Industry
Here at Perry Johnson Registrars, we have the authority to grant certification to a wide range of international standards.
Please select a standard below to learn more, or browse all standards we certify.
Quality
Environmental & Energy
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What Our Clients Say
PJR has been an accredited registrar since 1994; formal accreditation came in January 1995 by ANSI/ANAB.
Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. has been accredited by seven different international bodies, is recognized by IAOB, and has an audit staff of over 500 auditors, averaging 15 years of auditing experience and 18 years of experience in the quality industry.
PJR auditors boast an average of 15 years of auditing experience and an average 18 years of experience in quality assurance. Auditors undergo a thorough qualifications process, which includes not only interviews, background checks, and references, but mandatory training modules, technical competency exams, observation and supervision audits, and annual auditor training.
Frequently Asked Questions
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