SQF
GFSI-benchmarked HACCP-based food safety certification standard
AS9110C
Aerospace QMS standard for aircraft maintenance organizations.
Quick Verdict
SQF ensures food safety via HACCP and GMPs for global food chains, while AS9110C mandates aerospace QMS for MRO airworthiness. Food firms adopt SQF for retailer access; aviation organizations pursue AS9110C for regulatory compliance and contracts.
SQF
SQF Food Safety Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular structure with universal Module 2 and sector GMPs
- GFSI-benchmarked for global retailer and market access
- HACCP-based Food Safety Plan with validation verification
- Mandates full-time onsite SQF Practitioner role
- 'Say what you do, do what you say, prove it' philosophy
AS9110C
AS9110C: QMS Requirements for Aircraft Maintenance Organizations
Key Features
- Risk-based thinking embedded in planning and operations
- Configuration management and traceability controls
- Counterfeit parts prevention and detection
- Human factors and competence requirements
- Maintenance release and airworthiness controls
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
SQF Details
What It Is
SQF Food Safety Code Edition 9 is a GFSI-benchmarked certification framework administered by SQFI. It ensures food safety across supply chains using a HACCP-based, risk-oriented approach from farm to fork.
Key Components
- **Module 2Universal system elements like management commitment, HACCP plans, verification, traceability.
- Sector-specific modules (e.g., Module 11 GMPs for manufacturing).
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; includes ~70 mandatory elements.
- Third-party audits with graded scoring (E/G/C/F) and certification via licensed bodies.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer mandates for market access.
- Reduces recalls, audit duplication, enhances resilience.
- Builds food safety culture via leadership accountability.
- Aligns with FSMA, EU regs for due diligence.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification.
- Applies to manufacturers, storage, all sizes; 6-12 months typical.
- Requires SQF Practitioner, annual audits including unannounced.
AS9110C Details
What It Is
AS9110C (AS9110:2016 Rev C) is an international certification standard for quality management systems (QMS) in aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organizations. It builds on ISO 9001:2015 with aerospace-specific requirements, using a risk-based thinking (RBT) and PDCA approach to ensure airworthiness and compliance.
Key Components
- 10 clauses following ISO High Level Structure (HLS)
- Core areas: configuration management, counterfeit parts prevention, human factors, traceability, supplier controls
- Built on process approach, leadership commitment, performance evaluation
- Voluntary certification via accredited registrars with audits
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets customer/OEM contracts and regulatory alignments (FAA/EASA Part-145)
- Mitigates safety risks, reduces rework/downtime
- Enhances market access, operational efficiency, stakeholder trust
- Drives continual improvement and competitive differentiation
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process design, training, internal audits, certification
- Applies to MROs of all sizes globally
- Requires 3+ months operational data pre-certification; 6-12 months typical timeline
Key Differences
| Aspect | SQF | AS9110C |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Food safety management, HACCP, GMPs across supply chain | Aerospace MRO quality management, configuration, airworthiness |
| Industry | Food manufacturing, storage, distribution worldwide | Aviation maintenance, repair, overhaul organizations |
| Nature | GFSI-benchmarked voluntary certification standard | IAQG quality management certification standard |
| Testing | Annual third-party audits, unannounced, scoring thresholds | Internal audits, management review, Stage 1/2 certification audits |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, market exclusion, no legal fines | Certification loss, regulatory sanctions, contract ineligibility |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SQF and AS9110C
SQF FAQ
AS9110C FAQ
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