FedRAMP
U.S. program standardizing federal cloud security authorizations
AS9110C
International standard for aviation maintenance quality management systems.
Quick Verdict
FedRAMP standardizes cloud security for US federal agencies via assessments and monitoring, while AS9110C ensures quality in aviation maintenance through process controls and audits. Organizations adopt FedRAMP for government contracts, AS9110C for aerospace market access and safety.
FedRAMP
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
Key Features
- "Assess once, use many times" reusable authorizations
- NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 tailored control baselines
- Three FIPS 199 impact levels (Low, Moderate, High)
- Independent 3PAO security assessments required
- Ongoing continuous monitoring with monthly deliverables
AS9110C
AS9110C:2016 Quality Management Systems for Aviation Maintenance
Key Features
- Configuration management and traceability controls
- Counterfeit and suspect parts prevention
- Risk-based thinking in operations
- Human factors in root cause analysis
- Continuing airworthiness requirements
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
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 services used by federal agencies. Its primary purpose is enabling "assess once, use many times" to reduce duplication, accelerate secure cloud adoption, and align with FISMA and NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 via risk-based impact levels from FIPS 199.
Key Components
- Baselines for Low (~156 controls), Moderate (~323), High (~410), plus LI-SaaS subset.
- Core artifacts: SSP, SAR, POA&M, continuous monitoring plans.
- Built on NIST 800-53 controls; requires accredited 3PAOs for assessments.
- Authorization paths: Agency or Program ATOs, with Marketplace listing.
Why Organizations Use It
CSPs pursue FedRAMP for federal contract access (e.g., $20M+ opportunities), CMMC compliance, risk reduction, and commercial differentiation via the authorization badge. It builds stakeholder trust and unlocks government markets.
Implementation Overview
Involves categorization, documentation, 3PAO assessment, remediation, and ongoing monitoring. Targets CSPs of all sizes seeking federal business; 12-18 months typical, high costs ($150k-$2M+), audited annually.
AS9110C Details
What It Is
AS9110C (AS9110:2016 Rev C) is an international quality management system (QMS) standard for aviation maintenance organizations, such as repair stations and MRO providers. It builds on ISO 9001:2015 with aerospace-specific requirements for continuing airworthiness, using a risk-based thinking approach via Annex SL structure and PDCA cycle.
Key Components
- Core clauses 4–10 covering context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement.
- Aviation additions: configuration management, counterfeit parts prevention, human factors, traceability, external provider controls.
- No fixed control count; focuses on documented information and process effectiveness.
- Certification via IAQG-accredited bodies with audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets customer/OEM contracts and regulatory alignment (FAA/EASA).
- Mitigates safety risks, ensures traceability for airworthiness.
- Enhances on-time delivery, customer satisfaction, market access via OASIS.
- Builds stakeholder trust in safety-critical maintenance.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process design, training, audits, certification.
- Applies to MROs globally; 6-12 months typical.
- Requires internal audits, management reviews before Stage 2 audit.
Key Differences
| Aspect | FedRAMP | AS9110C |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cloud security assessment, authorization, monitoring | Aerospace maintenance quality management system |
| Industry | US federal cloud service providers | Aviation maintenance, repair organizations globally |
| Nature | US government program, mandatory for federal use | Voluntary IAQG certification standard |
| Testing | 3PAO assessments, continuous quarterly monitoring | Certification audits, internal audits, management reviews |
| Penalties | Loss of authorization, no federal contracts | Loss of certification, market exclusion |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about FedRAMP and AS9110C
FedRAMP FAQ
AS9110C FAQ
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