ISO 9001
International standard for quality management systems
AS9110C
Aerospace standard for aviation maintenance quality management systems
Quick Verdict
ISO 9001 provides generic QMS for all organizations worldwide, while AS9110C adds aerospace MRO specifics like configuration management and counterfeit prevention. Companies adopt ISO 9001 for broad efficiency; AS9110C for aviation compliance and market access.
ISO 9001
ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems Requirements
Key Features
- Risk-based thinking embedded throughout all clauses
- Process approach aligned with PDCA cycle
- Seven quality management principles foundation
- High-Level Structure enables standard integration
- Leadership commitment drives continual improvement
AS9110C
AS9110C: Quality Management Systems for Aviation Maintenance
Key Features
- Risk-based thinking in strategic and operational planning
- Configuration management and product traceability requirements
- Counterfeit and suspect parts prevention controls
- Human factors integration in root cause analysis
- Maintenance release and continuing airworthiness controls
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
ISO 9001 Details
What It Is
ISO 9001:2015 is the international certification standard for quality management systems (QMS). It defines requirements for organizations to consistently meet customer and regulatory needs through a process-based approach using PDCA cycle and risk-based thinking.
Key Components
- 10 clauses (4-10 auditable): context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement
- Built on **7 quality principlescustomer focus, leadership, engagement, process approach, improvement, evidence-based decisions, relationships
- Over 1 million global certifications; voluntary third-party audits
Why Organizations Use It
- Enhances customer satisfaction, efficiency, risk management
- Boosts market access, reputation, compliance
- Drives cost savings, continual improvement, stakeholder trust
Implementation Overview
- Gap analysis, process mapping, training, internal audits
- 6-12 months typical; scalable for all sizes/industries
- Certification via accredited bodies with surveillance audits
AS9110C Details
What It Is
AS9110C (AS9110:2016 Rev C) is an international quality management system (QMS) certification standard for aviation maintenance organizations (MROs), repair stations, and continuing airworthiness providers. It builds on ISO 9001:2015 with aerospace-specific requirements, using a risk-based thinking and PDCA approach to ensure safe, compliant maintenance across civil and military sectors.
Key Components
- Core clauses 4–10 (Annex SL structure) plus additions like configuration management, counterfeit parts prevention, human factors, traceability, and preservation.
- Emphasizes operational planning (Clause 8), leadership accountability, and documented information.
- No fixed number of controls; focuses on process effectiveness and evidence.
- Certification via IAQG-accredited bodies with OASIS listing.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets customer/OEM contracts and regulatory alignments (FAA/EASA Part 145).
- Mitigates safety risks, enhances on-time delivery, and prevents latent defects.
- Builds market access, customer trust, and operational resilience.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process design, training, audits (6–12 months typical).
- Applies to MROs of all sizes globally; requires internal audits and management review before certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | ISO 9001 | AS9110C |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Generic QMS for all organizations | Aerospace MRO with maintenance specifics |
| Industry | All industries worldwide | Aerospace maintenance organizations |
| Nature | Voluntary certifiable standard | Voluntary aerospace-specific certification |
| Testing | Third-party certification audits | Aerospace audits with MRO focus |
| Penalties | Loss of certification | Loss of certification and approvals |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ISO 9001 and AS9110C
ISO 9001 FAQ
AS9110C FAQ
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