AS9120B
Aerospace QMS standard for distributors based on ISO 9001
FedRAMP
U.S. program standardizing federal cloud security authorization
Quick Verdict
AS9120B ensures quality management for aerospace distributors via traceability and counterfeit controls, while FedRAMP authorizes secure cloud services for US federal agencies using NIST baselines and continuous monitoring. Distributors gain supply chain access; CSPs unlock government contracts.
AS9120B
AS9120B Quality Management Systems - Requirements for Distributors
Key Features
- Counterfeit and suspect unapproved parts prevention
- Traceability controls for split lots and inventory
- Risk-based external provider evaluation and monitoring
- Configuration management for distribution processes
- Enhanced product safety and ethical awareness requirements
FedRAMP
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
Key Features
- "Assess once, use many times" reusability model
- NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 control baselines
- Three FIPS 199 impact levels plus LI-SaaS
- Independent 3PAO security assessments required
- Ongoing continuous monitoring with automation
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
AS9120B Details
What It Is
AS9120B is the IAQG quality management system standard for aerospace distributors, based on ISO 9001:2015's 10-clause structure. It adds over 100 distributor-specific requirements for procuring, storing, and reselling parts without alteration. Primary purpose: mitigate risks like traceability loss and counterfeit infiltration via risk-based planning and operational controls.
Key Components
- Core pillars: context analysis, leadership, planning, support, operations, evaluation, improvement.
- Distributor emphases: counterfeit prevention, traceability/chain-of-custody, external provider controls, configuration management.
- Built on PDCA cycle; requires documented information, not full manual.
- Certification via accredited bodies, OASIS listing for visibility.
Why Organizations Use It
Commercial necessity for OEM supply chains; reduces safety risks, builds trust. Enhances efficiency, market access (2,442 global certifications). Manages supplier risks, prevents nonconformities.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: gap analysis, process design, training, audits (6-12 months). Applies to stockists/distributors globally; cross-functional teams essential for IT integration, supplier registers.
FedRAMP Details
What It Is
FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program) is a U.S. government-wide framework standardizing security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud service offerings (CSOs) used by federal agencies. Its primary purpose is enabling "assess once, use many times" to reduce duplication, based on risk-based NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 controls mapped to FIPS 199 impact levels.
Key Components
- **Three baselinesLow (~156 controls), Moderate (~323), High (~410), plus LI-SaaS for low-risk SaaS.
- Core artifacts: SSP, SAR, POA&M, continuous monitoring plans.
- Built on NIST standards; involves 3PAOs for independent assessments.
- Compliance via Agency or Program Authorization paths.
Why Organizations Use It
- Unlocks $20M+ federal contracts and CMMC compliance.
- Mandatory for federal cloud procurement; builds stakeholder trust.
- Enhances risk management and competitive edge as security badge.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: Sponsor, preparation, 3PAO assessment, monitoring.
- Targets CSPs; high complexity for documentation, controls.
- 12-18 months typical; audits by accredited 3PAOs required.
Key Differences
| Aspect | AS9120B | FedRAMP |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Aerospace distributor QMS, traceability, counterfeit prevention | Cloud security assessment, NIST 800-53 controls, continuous monitoring |
| Industry | Aerospace distribution, global | US federal cloud services, government agencies |
| Nature | Voluntary IAQG certification standard | Mandatory US government authorization program |
| Testing | Certification body audits, internal audits | 3PAO independent assessments, annual reassessments |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, market exclusion | Revocation of authorization, contract ineligibility |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about AS9120B and FedRAMP
AS9120B FAQ
FedRAMP FAQ
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