5 key things manufacturers should consider when upgrading from ISO 9001 to AS 9100:

If you’re already ISO 9001 certified, you’re further along than you think when it comes to upgrading to AS 9100. Many of the foundational requirements — such as quality management systems, customer satisfaction processes, and continuous improvement efforts — are already in place. The real challenges of AS 9100 lie in aerospace-specific requirements like risk management, product safety, and traceability. Upgrading to AS 9100 is a strategic investment that can unlock new growth opportunities in aerospace, defense, and aviation markets.

Here are 5 key things manufacturers should consider when upgrading from ISO 9001 to AS 9100:

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1️⃣ Industry Requirements and Market Opportunities

• Why it matters: AS 9100 is designed specifically for the aerospace, defense, and aviation industries, whereas ISO 9001 is a more general quality management standard. Upgrading to AS 9100 can open new doors to government contracts, aerospace clients, and defense suppliers.
• Consider this: Are you ready to meet the unique requirements of aerospace clients, such as product traceability, risk management, and strict documentation standards?

💡 Tip: Evaluate your current customer base and identify potential new markets that require AS 9100 certification.

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2️⃣ Risk Management Emphasis

• Why it matters: AS 9100 places a stronger emphasis on risk management than ISO 9001. This includes identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks across all stages of production.
• Consider this: Does your current QMS (Quality Management System) have robust risk management practices in place? You’ll need to implement preventative measures, contingency plans, and risk-based thinking.

💡 Tip: Review your current risk assessment processes and ensure they cover design, production, and supply chain risks.

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3️⃣ Product Safety and Traceability

• Why it matters: AS 9100 requires greater product safety controls and traceability throughout the supply chain, which is critical in aerospace and defense sectors.
• Consider this: Does your organization have the capability to track parts and products from raw materials through to final delivery? Are your safety protocols up to aerospace industry standards?

💡 Tip: Implement systems that provide full traceability and product lifecycle documentation.

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4️⃣ Configuration Management

• Why it matters: AS 9100 requires configuration management, which ensures that product changes are tracked, documented, and communicated to all stakeholders.
• Consider this: Does your team have a process for managing product changes? Are you using software tools to ensure that all versions of a product are correctly documented and controlled?

💡 Tip: Adopt configuration management tools that integrate with your QMS software.

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5️⃣ Increased Auditing and Documentation Requirements

• Why it matters: AS 9100 demands more detailed documentation and comprehensive internal audits compared to ISO 9001. This includes supply chain performance, nonconforming material control, and process verification/validation.
• Consider this: Are your internal teams prepared for more rigorous audits? Do you have sufficient documentation practices to comply with AS 9100 requirements?

💡 Tip: Train your team to prepare for more thorough audits and develop audit-friendly documentation templates.

By,

Craig Wilson, Managing Director, Quality and Process Improvement

Catalyst Connection