Is EN9100 the same as AS9100?

The aviation and aerospace industries demand stringent quality management systems to ensure the safety and reliability of their products. Key among these systems are EN9100 and AS9100, both international standards that focus on quality within these sectors. While they share many similarities, there are subtle differences between the two. In this technical article, we will explore the details of EN9100 and AS9100, comparing and contrasting their requirements and significance.

The of EN9100

EN9100 is a specific certification for companies operating within the European aerospace industry. It is based on the ISO 9001 quality management standard but includes additional requirements that are specific to aviation. EN9100 focuses on enhancing product safety, improving risk management, and ensuring process efficiency throughout the supply chain. It addresses various aspects such as design, development, production, and maintenance, with an emphasis on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

The Significance of AS9100

AS9100, on the other hand, is an aerospace-specific standard recognized worldwide. It is derived from ISO 9001, much like EN9100, but comes with additional requirements and expectations tailored for the aerospace sector. AS9100 aims to foster a culture of excellence in quality management, emphasizing product integrity, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance. With its strict guidelines, AS9100 certifies organizations that meet the highest standards in aviation and aerospace manufacturing, thereby enhancing customer confidence and industry credibility.

Comparing EN9100 and AS9100

Though EN9100 and AS9100 have similar foundations and goals, there are notable differences between them. One significant distinction lies in their geographical scope. EN9100 primarily applies to European aerospace suppliers, whereas AS9100 is more globally recognized and accepted. Therefore, if a company wants to expand its market reach beyond Europe, having AS9100 certification becomes instrumental.

Furthermore, the two standards differ in their documentation requirements. While EN9100 follows the format of ISO 9001 for its quality management system documentation, AS9100 has additional documentation elements specific to the aerospace industry. This includes configuration management, risk management, and more detailed controls on supplier management, which are critical in aviation and aerospace quality assurance.

Both standards acknowledge the importance of continuous improvement; however, there are variances in their expectations. AS9100 sets higher demands, requiring organizations to develop and implement comprehensive corrective action systems and take steps to prevent non-conformances from recurring. This heightened focus on preventative measures highlights the commitment to exceptional quality within the aerospace sector.

Conclusion

In summary, while EN9100 and AS9100 share similarities as industry-specific quality management systems, they do have distinct requirements and scopes. EN9100 mainly caters to European aerospace companies, whereas AS9100 has global recognition. The differences in documentation and emphasis on continuous improvement further set these standards apart. Regardless of the requirements, both EN9100 and AS9100 signify an organization's dedication to producing safe, reliable, and high-quality products in the aviation and aerospace sectors - ultimately ensuring customer satisfaction and industry excellence.