AS9120B
Aerospace QMS standard for distributors' traceability and counterfeit prevention
ISO 27701
International standard for privacy information management systems
Quick Verdict
AS9120B ensures quality management for aerospace distributors via traceability and counterfeit controls, while ISO 27701 establishes PIMS for privacy accountability. Distributors adopt AS9120B for OEM approval; all PII handlers use ISO 27701 for regulatory trust and certification.
AS9120B
AS9120B:2016 Quality Management Systems for Distributors
Key Features
- Rigorous traceability and chain-of-custody controls for split lots
- Counterfeit and suspected unapproved parts prevention processes
- Risk-based external provider evaluation and flowdown requirements
- Configuration management tailored to distribution operations
- Enhanced product safety and ethical behavior awareness
ISO 27701
ISO/IEC 27701:2025 Privacy Information Management
Key Features
- PIMS framework extending ISO 27001 for privacy
- Separate controls for PII controllers and processors
- Risk-based assessments and DPIAs
- GDPR and regulatory mappings in annexes
- PDCA cycle for continual improvement
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
AS9120B Details
What It Is
AS9120B:2016 is a certification standard for quality management systems (QMS) tailored to aerospace distributors who procure, store, split, and resell parts without alteration. Built on ISO 9001:2015's 10-clause high-level structure, it adds over 100 IAQG-specific requirements using a risk-based approach to address distribution risks like traceability loss and counterfeits.
Key Components
- Core pillars: context analysis, leadership, planning, support, operations, evaluation, improvement.
- Distributor-focused: traceability, counterfeit prevention, external provider controls, configuration management.
- Over 100 aerospace additions beyond ISO 9001.
- Certification via accredited bodies, OASIS listing for visibility.
Why Organizations Use It
- Commercial necessity for OEM/Tier-1 supply chains.
- Mitigates risks of nonconformities, recalls, legal liabilities.
- Builds customer trust, market access (2,442 global certifications).
- Drives efficiency, reduces defects via standardized processes.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process design, training, audits (6-12 months).
- Applies to aviation/space/defense distributors globally.
- Involves cross-functional teams, Management Representative, IAQG-grade audits.
ISO 27701 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 27701:2025 is the international standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving a Privacy Information Management System (PIMS). It provides a risk-based framework for managing personally identifiable information (PII) lifecycle, extending ISO/IEC 27001 with privacy-specific requirements for PII controllers and processors.
Key Components
- Clauses 4–10 mirroring ISO management systems, plus Annex A (controller controls) and Annex B (processor controls).
- Core areas: governance, PII inventory, DPIAs, data subject rights, third-party management, cross-border transfers.
- Built on PDCA cycle; includes GDPR mappings (Annex D).
- Certification via accredited bodies with 3-year validity and surveillance audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Demonstrates accountability for global privacy laws like GDPR.
- Mitigates regulatory fines, breach risks, and supply-chain exclusions.
- Enhances trust, competitive edge in B2B markets, insurance benefits.
Implementation Overview
- Phased PDCA approach: discover/scope, design/plan, implement/operate, validate/improve.
- Applicable to all sizes/industries handling PII; integrates with ISMS.
- Requires PII mapping, policies, training, audits for certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | AS9120B | ISO 27701 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Aerospace distribution QMS, traceability, counterfeit prevention | Privacy Information Management System, PII lifecycle, data protection |
| Industry | Aviation, space, defense distributors globally | All sectors handling PII worldwide |
| Nature | Voluntary IAQG certification standard | Voluntary ISO privacy management certification |
| Testing | IAQG audits, internal audits, management reviews | Certification audits, internal audits, surveillance audits |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, market exclusion | Loss of certification, no direct legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about AS9120B and ISO 27701
AS9120B FAQ
ISO 27701 FAQ
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