Glossary

Aerospace quality system

An aerospace quality system is the structured quality management approach used to control aerospace products, processes, records, and traceability.

Quality, Compliance and Traceability AS9100 Aerospace Quality Management Standard Audit Readiness (AS9100)

An aerospace quality system is the structured set of policies, procedures, controls, responsibilities, and records used to manage quality in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, repair, overhaul, and supply chain operations. It defines how an organization controls work, verifies conformity, manages changes, handles nonconformances, and maintains evidence for product and process traceability.

In manufacturing and industrial systems, the term commonly refers to an aerospace-focused quality management system, often aligned with standards such as AS9100, AS9110, or AS9120, along with customer, program, and regulatory requirements. Typical elements include document control, inspection planning, first article inspection, supplier quality, calibration control, training records, corrective action, configuration control, and control of nonconforming material.

An aerospace quality system is not the same as a single software application. MES, ERP, QMS, PLM, inspection, and supplier portals may support parts of the system, but the quality system also includes procedures, roles, approvals, records, and operational practices. The existence of such a system does not by itself imply certification, audit readiness, or product acceptance.

AS9100 does not prescribe one universal NCR form. It requires documented information that describes the nonconformity, actions taken, concessions obtained, and the authority deciding the action. Exact NCR fields depend on the product, customer flowdowns, regulatory context, and site procedures.

What is the difference between AS9100 and AS9100D?

AS9100 is the overall aerospace quality management system standard, while AS9100D is its current revision. In practice, “AS9100” without a letter is often used generically, so you need to confirm which revision your contracts, procedures, and audits actually reference and ensure QMS documentation and evidence align with that version.

What is the AS9100 Quality Management System?

AS9100 is an aerospace-focused quality management system standard that builds on ISO 9001 with additional requirements for risk management, configuration control, special processes, and product safety. It defines how a QMS should be structured and managed, but does not guarantee compliance, audit outcomes, or product safety on its own. Effectiveness depends on implementation, validation, and day-to-day execution in your specific environment.

What is the new name for AS9100?

AS9100 has not been renamed. The current version is AS9100D (aligned with ISO 9001:2015), and it is still formally called “AS9100.” Revisions (B, C, D, etc.) are version identifiers, not new names. Always verify the latest valid revision and customer/contract requirements before changing your documented references.

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