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    Blog/Compare/AS9120B vs ISO 30301
    Standards Comparison

    AS9120B vs ISO 30301

    AS9120B

    Mandatory
    2016

    Aerospace QMS standard for parts distributors

    VS

    ISO 30301

    Voluntary
    2019

    International standard for management systems for records

    Quick Verdict

    AS9120B ensures quality management for aerospace distributors, preventing counterfeit parts and maintaining traceability. ISO 30301 establishes records management systems for any organization, ensuring reliable evidence. Companies adopt AS9120B for supply chain approval; ISO 30301 for governance and compliance.

    Quality Management

    AS9120B

    AS9120B Quality Management Systems for Distributors

    Cost
    €€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    6-12 months

    Key Features

    • Prevents counterfeit and suspected unapproved parts
    • Ensures robust traceability for split lots
    • Strengthens external provider controls and flowdown
    • Implements configuration management for distributors
    • Mandates product safety and ethical awareness
    Records Management

    ISO 30301

    ISO 30301:2019 Management systems for records Requirements

    Cost
    €€€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    12-18 months

    Key Features

    • High-Level Structure for MSS integration
    • Normative Annex A operational controls
    • Flexible conformity pathways options
    • Explicit records requirements analysis
    • Risk-based planning and objectives

    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 aviation, space, and defense distributors procuring, storing, and reselling parts without alteration. Built on ISO 9001:2015's 10-clause structure, it employs risk-based thinking to address distribution risks like traceability loss and counterfeits.

    Key Components

    • Clauses 4-10: context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement
    • 100+ aerospace additions: traceability, counterfeit prevention, configuration management, external providers
    • PDCA cycle with documented information controls
    • Certification model via accredited bodies, OASIS registration

    Why Organizations Use It

    • Enables OEM supply chain access and OASIS visibility
    • Mitigates counterfeit, documentation, inventory risks
    • Boosts efficiency, customer satisfaction, market differentiation
    • Builds stakeholder trust through auditable chain-of-custody

    Implementation Overview

    • 6-12 month phased rollout: gap analysis, process design, training, internal audits
    • Targets global distributors; requires Stage 1/2 certification audits

    ISO 30301 Details

    What It Is

    ISO 30301:2019 (Information and documentation — Management systems for records — Requirements) is a certifiable international standard specifying requirements for a Management System for Records (MSR). It applies to any organization, focusing on creating, controlling, and improving records as reliable evidence supporting business activities. The approach follows the High-Level Structure (HLS) with risk-based planning and PDCA cycle.

    Key Components

    • HLS clauses 4–10: context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement.
    • Clause 8 and Annex A (normative) records lifecycle controls (creation, capture, access, retention, disposition).
    • Core principles: authenticity, reliability, integrity, usability.
    • Flexible conformity: self-declaration, external confirmation, third-party certification.

    Why Organizations Use It

    • Ensures compliance with legal/regulatory retention and evidentiary needs.
    • Mitigates risks like data loss, litigation, non-compliance.
    • Boosts efficiency, transparency, and integration with ISO 9001/27001.
    • Builds stakeholder trust via auditable governance.

    Implementation Overview

    • Phased: gap analysis, policy design, operational controls, audits.
    • Scalable for any size/sector; 12-18 months typical.
    • Involves leadership commitment, training, system integration; certification optional.

    Key Differences

    AspectAS9120BISO 30301
    ScopeAerospace parts distribution QMSRecords management system governance
    IndustryAviation, space, defense distributorsAll organizations, any sector
    NatureVoluntary IAQG certification standardVoluntary ISO certification standard
    TestingIAQG audits, OASIS certificationInternal audits, management reviews
    PenaltiesLoss of certification, market exclusionLoss of certification, no legal penalties

    Scope

    AS9120B
    Aerospace parts distribution QMS
    ISO 30301
    Records management system governance

    Industry

    AS9120B
    Aviation, space, defense distributors
    ISO 30301
    All organizations, any sector

    Nature

    AS9120B
    Voluntary IAQG certification standard
    ISO 30301
    Voluntary ISO certification standard

    Testing

    AS9120B
    IAQG audits, OASIS certification
    ISO 30301
    Internal audits, management reviews

    Penalties

    AS9120B
    Loss of certification, market exclusion
    ISO 30301
    Loss of certification, no legal penalties

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about AS9120B and ISO 30301

    AS9120B FAQ

    ISO 30301 FAQ

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