We have recently received our ISO9001 + AS9110 certificate, demonstrating our commitment to delivering our services and products to a high standard that is recognised globally. The AS9110 Standard is based on ISO 9001:2008, but with nearly 100 additional requirements specific to the aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul processes. 

WHAT IS THE AS9110 STANDARD?

 

The aerospace industry realized that the needs of the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) providers were different than those of the OEM's as poper maintenance of products designed to perform for 50 years and beyond is crucial for safe operation.

To address this need, the IAQG (International Aerospace Quality Group) developed the standard formally known as "AS9110 Quality Management Systems - Aerospace - Requirements for Maintenance Organizations". This standard is focused on the control of repair schemes and maintenance plans, configuration management, and the skills and qualifications necessary to perform MRO tasks within the aerospace community.

The AS9110 standard addresses many of the MRO requirements that are identified in the FAA/EASA/NZCAA/etc. Part 43 & 145. These include topics such as, approvals, ratings, licenses and permits.

MRO organizations must have a series of approvals for certain types of repairs, they must be rated on the specific airframe and/or engine platform and carry the appropriate regulatory certificates. Other requirements include, technical data (repair manuals), personnel certification and validation of the maintenance activity. Effective implementation of AS9110 will provide an organisation with a sound system to ensure safety, reliability and airworthiness. Based on ISO 9001:2000, but with additional requirements, AS9110 provides suppliers with a comprehensive quality system focused on areas directly impacting product safety and reliability, such as;

    • Addresses civil aviation authorities and where in the standard that those requirements apply.

    • Addresses definitions unique to the MRO industry such as Technical Data, Human Factors & Release Certificates.

    • Includes expanded requirements for personnel conducting MRO task.

    • Addresses the qualification of new maintenance processes.

THE PROCESS 

 

Our initial application for the AS9110 certification was submitted at the beginning of 2016 and we underwent three site audits which were carried out by a SAI Global/Telarc certified auditor. This started with a pre-assessment & document review, followed by Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits. After our successful completion of required corrective actions, our quality management system was certified to comply with ISO9001:2008/AS9110B requirements.

THE BENEFITS

When an organisation aligns to AS9110, it not only reaps quality and efficiency benefits, but also is better able to meet customer expectations. Registration can also provide a competitive advantage by:

    • Identifying opportunities for operational improvements and cost reduction;

    • Improved audit and surveillance efficiency;

    • Reduced number of customer audits required, and a corresponding reduction in needed resources;

    • Enhanced supplier performance due to higher quality, waste reduction, and a customer satisfaction focus; and

    • Streamlined documentation.

We are proud to have gained this qualification. Although, we have known for years that our services are completed to a high standard, now we have the paperwork to prove it.