AS9100 Implementation Services

What is AS9100?

AS9100 is the internationally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard specifically designed for the aerospace industry. Built upon the ISO 9001 framework, AS9100 includes additional requirements critical to aviation, space, and defense sectors.

The standard addresses aerospace-specific concerns including:

• Configuration management and traceability
• Risk management throughout the product lifecycle
• Counterfeit parts prevention
• First article inspection requirements
• Critical items control

AS9100 certification demonstrates your commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement—essential for securing contracts with major aerospace OEMs and defense contractors.

Why Aerospace Manufacturers Need AS9100

Contract Requirements

Most aerospace prime contractors and OEMs require AS9100 certification from their supply chain partners. Without certification, you cannot bid on or maintain contracts with Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, Lockheed Martin, and other industry leaders.

Competitive Advantage

AS9100 certification differentiates your company in a crowded marketplace, proving your capability to meet the industry’s highest quality standards.

Operational Excellence

The implementation process identifies inefficiencies, reduces non-conformances, and establishes systematic controls that improve delivery performance and reduce costs.

Customer Confidence

Certification provides third-party validation of your quality systems, reducing customer audit frequency and strengthening business relationships.

Regulatory Compliance

AS9100 aligns with aviation authority requirements (FAA, EASA, Transport Canada), simplifying compliance with aerospace regulations.

Our Implementation Methodology

At MQC, we use a proven, phased approach to AS9100 implementation:

Phase 1: Gap Analysis & Planning (Weeks 1-2)

We conduct a comprehensive assessment of your current quality systems against AS9100 requirements, identifying gaps and prioritizing improvements. You’ll receive a detailed implementation roadmap with timelines and resource requirements.

Phase 2: Documentation Development (Weeks 3-8)

We work with your team to develop or update your Quality Manual, procedures, work instructions, and forms. All documentation is tailored to your operations—no generic templates.

Phase 3: Training & Deployment (Weeks 9-12)

Your team receives hands-on training on new processes and AS9100 requirements. We ensure everyone understands their role in maintaining the QMS.

Phase 4: Internal Audits (Weeks 13-16)

We conduct internal audits to verify system effectiveness, identify non-conformances, and implement corrective actions before the certification audit.

Phase 5: Management Review & Pre-Assessment (Weeks 17-20)

A management review ensures top-level commitment. We perform a final pre-assessment to confirm certification readiness.

Phase 6: Certification Support (Weeks 21-24)

We guide you through certification body selection and provide on-site support during Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits.

Timeline Expectations

Typical Implementation: 3-6 Months

The timeline depends on several factors:

• Company size: 10-50 employees typically complete in 3-4 months; larger organizations may need 5-6 months
• Existing systems: Companies with ISO 9001 can transition faster (2-3 months)
• Resource availability: Dedicated internal resources accelerate the process
• Complexity: Multi-site operations or special processes require additional time

Fast-Track Option: For urgent needs, we offer accelerated 12-week programs for smaller organizations with committed teams.

Deliverables

Your AS9100 implementation includes:

QMS Documentation Package:

• Quality Manual aligned with AS9100 Rev D requirements
• 20-25 core procedures (document control, CAPA, internal audit, etc.)
• Process flowcharts and interaction matrices
• Work instructions for critical operations
• Forms, checklists, and templates

Training Materials:

• Employee awareness training presentations
• Internal auditor training (AS9100-specific)
• Process-specific training modules

Audit Support:

• Internal audit schedules and checklists
• Audit reports with findings and CARs
• Pre-assessment report with certification readiness status

Implementation Tools:

• Gap analysis report
• Implementation project plan (Gantt chart)
• Risk and opportunity register
• Key performance indicator (KPI) dashboard templates

AS9100 vs ISO 9001 Differences

While AS9100 is built on ISO 9001, it includes over 100 additional aerospace-specific requirements:

Configuration Management

AS9100 requires formal configuration control processes to manage design changes and ensure product consistency throughout the lifecycle.

Risk Management

Enhanced risk assessment requirements throughout all QMS processes, not just at the planning stage.

Product Safety

Specific requirements for identifying and controlling critical items, key characteristics, and safety-critical components.

First Article Inspection

Mandatory FAI processes to verify new or changed products meet all specifications.

Counterfeit Parts Prevention

Requirements to prevent, detect, and control counterfeit or suspect materials in the supply chain.

Special Processes

Enhanced controls for processes where output cannot be fully verified (welding, heat treating, NDT, coating).

Supplier Management

More rigorous supplier approval, monitoring, and development requirements.

If you’re already ISO 9001 certified: Transitioning to AS9100 focuses on implementing these aerospace-specific additions, typically requiring 2-3 months.

Post-Certification Support

Certification is the beginning, not the end. MQC provides ongoing support to ensure your QMS remains effective:

Annual Surveillance Audit Preparation

We help you prepare for yearly surveillance audits, conducting pre-audit reviews and addressing potential findings.

Continuous Improvement Consulting

Quarterly or on-demand support to optimize processes, reduce non-conformances, and drive operational excellence.

Internal Audit Services

Outsourced internal auditing to maintain objectivity and identify improvement opportunities.

QMS Maintenance

Support for document updates, process changes, and system adaptations as your business evolves.

Training Updates

Refresher training for existing staff and onboarding programs for new employees.

Three-Year Recertification Support

Comprehensive support for your recertification audit in year 3.

Industries Served

Our AS9100 implementation expertise serves:

Aerospace OEMs

Aircraft manufacturers, helicopter manufacturers, and final assembly operations

Defense Contractors

Military aircraft components, defense systems, and tactical equipment manufacturers

Tier 1-3 Suppliers:

• Precision machining and fabrication
• Sheet metal and composite manufacturing
• Landing gear and hydraulic systems
• Avionics and electrical assemblies
• Engine components and accessories
• Interior components and cabin systems

Special Process Providers:

• Heat treating and surface treatment
• Non-destructive testing (NDT)
• Chemical processing and coating
• Welding and brazing operations

Distribution and Supply Chain

Aerospace parts distributors and logistics providers serving the aerospace sector

Ready to Start Your AS9100 Journey?

Get a clear picture of what AS9100 implementation requires for your operation. Our free readiness assessment identifies gaps, estimates timelines, and provides a customized roadmap to certification.

No obligation. 60-minute consultation with our AS9100 specialists. Available in Montreal, Quebec City, and across Quebec.