NIST 800-171
U.S. framework protecting CUI in nonfederal systems
AS9110C
Aerospace QMS standard for aircraft maintenance organizations
Quick Verdict
NIST 800-171 protects CUI confidentiality for defense contractors via cybersecurity controls and assessments, while AS9110C ensures quality management for aerospace MROs through process controls and audits. Organizations adopt them for contract compliance and market access.
NIST 800-171
NIST SP 800-171 Protecting CUI in Nonfederal Systems
Key Features
- Protects CUI confidentiality in nonfederal systems
- Requires SSP and POA&M documentation artifacts
- 110 requirements across 14-17 control families
- Supports CUI enclave scoping for boundaries
- Enforced via DFARS contracts for contractors
AS9110C
AS9110C: Quality Management Systems for Aircraft Maintenance
Key Features
- Configuration management and traceability controls
- Counterfeit parts prevention and detection
- Risk-based thinking in planning and operations
- Human factors and competence requirements
- Regulatory alignment with FAA/EASA Part-145
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
NIST 800-171 Details
What It Is
NIST SP 800-171 (Revision 3, May 2024) is a U.S. government framework providing security requirements to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) confidentiality in nonfederal systems. Tailored from SP 800-53 Moderate baseline, it uses a control-based approach focused on scoping to CUI components.
Key Components
- 97-110 requirements organized into 14-17 families (e.g., Access Control, Audit, Supply Chain Risk Management).
- Core artifacts: System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M).
- Assessment via SP 800-171A (examine/interview/test methods).
- Built on FIPS 200 and SP 800-53; supports tailoring and equivalencies.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for federal contractors via DFARS 252.204-7012 and CMMC Level 2.
- Reduces breach risks, ensures contract eligibility, builds supply chain trust.
- Enhances cybersecurity maturity and competitive edge in DoD procurement.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: scoping, gap analysis, control deployment, evidence collection.
- Applies to contractors handling CUI; scalable via enclaves.
- Self-assessment or third-party audits (C3PAO); ongoing monitoring required.
AS9110C Details
What It Is
AS9110C is the international quality management system (QMS) standard for aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organizations. It extends ISO 9001:2015 with aerospace-specific requirements, focusing on safety-critical processes like configuration management and airworthiness. It employs a risk-based thinking approach via the High-Level Structure (HLS) and PDCA cycle.
Key Components
- Core clauses 4-10 covering context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement.
- Aviation additions: counterfeit parts prevention, human factors, traceability, release controls.
- Built on ISO 9001 with ~20 maintenance-specific notes; voluntary certification via accredited bodies.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets customer/OEM contracts and regulatory alignment (FAA/EASA Part-145).
- Mitigates safety risks, reduces rework/downtime, enhances market access.
- Builds stakeholder trust through proven operational excellence and OASIS listing.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process design, training, audits, certification.
- Applies to MROs globally; 6-12 months typical, requiring internal audits and management reviews.
Key Differences
| Aspect | NIST 800-171 | AS9110C |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | CUI confidentiality in nonfederal systems | Aerospace MRO quality management system |
| Industry | Defense contractors, federal supply chains | Aviation maintenance, repair organizations |
| Nature | Cybersecurity requirements, contract-mandated | Certification standard based on ISO 9001 |
| Testing | SPRS scoring, CMMC assessments, self/third-party | Internal audits, management reviews, certification audits |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility, DFARS reporting obligations | Loss of certification, regulatory sanctions |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about NIST 800-171 and AS9110C
NIST 800-171 FAQ
AS9110C FAQ
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