The Essential Guide for Aerospace Distributors (Understanding AS9120)

In the high-stakes aerospace industry, quality management isn't just important - it's literally a matter of life and death. According to simpleQuE, there are 2,442 AS9120 certifications worldwide, with 836 issued in the U.S. as of May 2023, demonstrating the growing importance of this standard. For aerospace distributors handling critical components from fasteners to complex electronics, achieving AS9120 certification represents the gold standard for quality management systems. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about AS9120 for aerospace distributors, from understanding core requirements to maximizing certification benefits. Whether you're exploring quality management in the aerospace industry or seeking specific guidance on AS9100 vs AS9120 certification differences, this guide provides the essential insights you need.

What Is AS9120? A Clear Definition for Aerospace Distributors

What is AS9120? A question that frequently arises among aerospace supply chain professionals. AS9120 is a Quality Management System standard based on AS9100, adding 100+ requirements specific to distributors of aircraft components such as fasteners, electronics, gaskets, etc. According to SAE International, AS9120B was revised in 2016 to incorporate the new clause structure and content of ISO 9001:2015.

The standard builds upon ISO 9001:2015 while incorporating aerospace-specific requirements tailored for distributors. AS9120 ensures distributors maintain proper handling of materials throughout the supply chain, emphasizing product authenticity, documentation integrity, and counterfeit prevention.

Who AS9120 Applies To in the Aerospace Supply Chain

AS9120 for aerospace distributors applies specifically to organizations that procure, store, and resell aerospace components without modifying product characteristics. AS9120:2016 is intended for use by organizations that procure parts, materials, and assemblies and resell these products to a customer in the aviation, space, and defense industries.

The standard covers stockist distributors of aerospace components, organizations that split larger quantities into smaller batches, pass-through distributors handling aviation, space, and defense items, and companies coordinating customer or regulatory-controlled processes.

However, AS9120 does not apply to value-added distributors who modify products, organizations performing maintenance and repair work, or companies that affect product characteristics or conformity.

AS9120 vs AS9100: Key Differences for Distributors

Understanding the distinction between AS9120 vs AS9100 is crucial for aerospace organizations. AS9100 covers design, production, and servicing for manufacturers, whereas AS9120 targets distribution activities. AS9100 includes several clauses not in AS9120, reflecting the specific needs of manufacturing versus distribution sectors.

AS9100 Requirements Not in AS9120: Operational risk management, design verification and validation tests, special processes validation and control, and production process validation/First Article Inspection.

AS9120 Unique Requirements: Enhanced counterfeit prevention procedures, specific traceability requirements for aerospace parts, documentation requirements for stockist operations, and batch and lot splitting controls.

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Why AS9120 Matters for Aerospace Distributors

AS9120 benefits extend far beyond mere compliance requirements. For aerospace distributors, this certification represents a strategic investment in operational excellence and market positioning.

Industry Expectations and Customer Requirements

The aerospace industry increasingly demands AS9120 certification from distributors. Original Equipment Manufacturers often require certification as a prerequisite for doing business with distributors. According to AUVA, many aerospace clients require AS9120 certification as a prerequisite for doing business. Organizations implementing effective supplier quality management practices find that AS9120 certification becomes a competitive differentiator.

Major aerospace manufacturers, including Boeing, Airbus, and defense contractors, increasingly require AS9120 certification from their distributors. While not legally mandatory, AS9120 has become a practical requirement for participating in many aerospace supply chains, as many prime contractors require certification as a prerequisite for supplier approval.

All certified organizations are registered in the Online Aerospace Supplier Information System (OASIS) maintained by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG). This searchable database provides aerospace companies with verified supplier information, making certified distributors more discoverable and credible to potential customers.

Risk Reduction and Improved Supply Chain Traceability

One of the primary AS9120 benefits is significant risk reduction across aerospace supply chains. The aerospace sector is highly sensitive to counterfeit or substandard parts, which can lead to significant operational risks and safety hazards. According to simpleQuE's aerospace certification analysis, AS9120B certification strongly emphasizes preventing counterfeit and fraudulent parts from entering the supply chain.

AS9120 requires distributors to implement robust traceability systems that track components from the original manufacturer to the end customer. The standard's emphasis on comprehensive documentation ensures critical product information travels with each component, including certificates of conformity, test reports, and evidence of product compliance.

What Distributors Must Comply with AS9120 Requirements

Understanding AS9120 requirements is essential for successful certification. The standard incorporates all ISO 9001:2015 requirements plus aerospace-specific additions tailored for distribution operations. Companies looking to understand broader aerospace quality standards should also consider reviewing quality metrics for aerospace and defense to establish comprehensive performance monitoring systems.

Inventory & Traceability Controls

AS9120 mandates rigorous inventory management and traceability systems. According to Intertek, the standard requires distributors to establish systems for tracking individual components while ensuring materials are handled properly through the chain of custody and traceability.

Key traceability requirements include complete documentation of product origin, maintenance of certificates of conformity, implementation of unique identification systems, product integrity preservation, and regular inventory audits.

The standard addresses splitting operations (when distributors divide larger quantities into smaller batches), requiring procedures to ensure product characteristics remain unchanged.

Supplier Evaluation & Purchase Controls

AS9120 establishes stringent requirements for supplier evaluation and procurement controls. Distributors must implement robust supplier qualification processes to ensure they source from approved, reliable suppliers. Organizations can benefit from implementing supplier corrective action requests and maintaining supplier scorecards to monitor performance effectively.

Essential supplier control requirements include comprehensive supplier evaluation, ongoing performance monitoring, verification of supplier certifications, documentation of quality agreements, and regular assessments.

The standard requires distributors to maintain approved supplier lists and establish controls for authorized purchasing. When sourcing from open markets, additional risk assessment prevents counterfeit parts from entering the supply chain.

Documentation, Records & Product Safety Requirements

AS9120 emphasizes comprehensive documentation and record-keeping throughout distribution operations. Organizations implementing effective AS9100D record retention practices will find many principles directly applicable to AS9120 compliance.

Documentation requirements encompass quality manuals aligned with AS9120 structure, work instructions, complete product traceability records, quality agreements, and training records.

Product safety considerations are integrated throughout AS9120 requirements. While distributors don't affect product characteristics, they must maintain safety awareness and implement appropriate handling procedures.

AS9120 Benefits for Aerospace Distributors

Implementing AS9120 delivers significant benefits that justify the certification investment.

Stronger Credibility and Market Access

AS9120 certification provides immediate credibility enhancement and access to exclusive business opportunities requiring AS9120 compliance. The certification enables participation in high-value aerospace supply chains where quality standards are non-negotiable.

International recognition of AS9120 certification opens global markets across the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

Reduced Non-Conformances and Operational Waste

AS9120 implementation drives operational efficiency improvements through reduced inventory discrepancies, faster problem resolution, decreased rework, and enhanced customer satisfaction. Organizations implementing comprehensive quality metrics for aerospace and defense can maximize these benefits.

Competitive Advantage in Aerospace Procurement

AS9120 certification provides competitive advantages in procurement processes, often resulting in improved payment terms and contracts as customers recognize reduced risk.

How to Achieve AS9120 Certification (Step-by-Step)

The path to AS9120 certification follows a structured approach, building quality management capabilities systematically.

Step 1: Gap Analysis and Documentation Development

The certification journey begins with a comprehensive gap analysis comparing current operations against AS9120 requirements. This assessment includes a review of existing systems, identification of missing procedures, and documentation assessment.

Following gap analysis, organizations develop documentation aligned with the AS9120 structure.

Step 2: Implementation, Internal Audits, and Corrective Actions

After documentation development, organizations implement new procedures and train personnel. Implementation includes staff training, process validation, and internal audit development. Regular internal audits verify system effectiveness before certification audits.

Step 3: Selecting a Certification Body and Audit Stages

The final certification phase involves working with an accredited certification body to conduct formal audits, including Stage 1 Audit (initial review), Stage 2 Audit (comprehensive evaluation), Surveillance Audits (annual monitoring), and Re-certification (three-year renewal).

Common Challenges With AS9120 and How to Avoid Them

Understanding common implementation challenges helps distributors prepare for successful AS9120 certification.

Managing Traceability Without Errors

Traceability represents one of the most complex AS9120 requirements. Common pitfalls include incomplete documentation, manual errors, lost product identification, and inadequate storage procedures. Solutions include automated identification systems, clear document control procedures, and periodic traceability exercises.

Ensuring Supplier Consistency

Effective supplier management includes comprehensive qualification criteria, regular assessments, clear quality agreements, and contingency plans for disruptions.

AS9120B and Future Updates: What Distributors Should Know

AS9120B represents the current version, revised in 2016 to align with ISO 9001:2015. Key updates include enhanced risk management requirements, improved counterfeit prevention procedures, and strengthened documentation requirements.

Staying current requires active participation in industry associations, regular training updates, and consultation with qualified experts.

Final Checklist for AS9120 Compliance

Before pursuing AS9120 certification, distributors should complete this essential checklist:

Documentation Requirements: Quality manual aligned with AS9120 structure, procedures covering requirements, work instructions, and record-keeping forms.

Process Implementation: Supplier evaluation processes, product traceability systems, inventory management procedures, and counterfeit prevention measures.

Training and Competency: Staff training on AS9120 requirements, competency verification, and management awareness sessions.

System Readiness: Operational quality management system, performance records, internal audit results, and management review evidence.

How BPR Hub Helps With AS9120 Certification

BPR Hub revolutionizes AS9120 compliance through AI QCG technology and Octo, your AI-powered compliance assistant. For aerospace distributors, Octo understands AS9100D, ISO 9001, and regulatory requirements, providing tailored guidance.

With BPR Hub's solutions, you can instantly locate critical documents, get guided workflows, ask compliance questions, and check audit readiness with real-time scores.

BPR Hub combines AI technology with aerospace expertise, ensuring efficient AS9120 implementation.

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Key Takeaways

→ AS9120 for aerospace distributors is essential for market access, with over 2,400 certifications worldwide demonstrating industry importance.

→ AS9120 requirements focus on traceability, counterfeit prevention, and documentation controls specifically for aerospace distribution operations.

→ AS9120 certification delivers enhanced customer confidence, reduced operational risks, and access to exclusive aerospace business opportunities.

→ AS9120 benefits include competitive advantages in procurement, international market access, and operational excellence.

→ Successful AS9120 implementation requires a systematic approach, including gap analysis, documentation development, and ongoing monitoring.

FAQ

What is the difference between AS9100 and AS9120 certification? 

AS9100 applies to aerospace manufacturers covering design, production, and maintenance, while AS9120 is specifically designed for distributors focusing on traceability, inventory management, and counterfeit prevention. Both build on ISO 9001 but address different supply chain roles with AS9100, including manufacturing-specific requirements not applicable to distributors. 

How long does AS9120 certification typically take to achieve? 

AS9120 certification typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on organization size, existing quality systems, and complexity of operations. Companies with established ISO 9001 systems may achieve certification faster since they're approximately 75% compliant with AS9120 requirements, while organizations starting from scratch may require the full timeline or longer.

What are the main benefits of AS9120 certification for aerospace distributors? 

AS9120 benefits include enhanced customer confidence, reduced counterfeit risks, improved operational efficiency, competitive advantage in procurement, and access to exclusive aerospace business opportunities. Certified distributors also gain international recognition through the OASIS database listing and demonstrate commitment to the quality standards expected by major aerospace manufacturers. Organizations can further enhance their quality management by implementing quality metrics for aerospace and defense.

Is AS9120 certification mandatory for aerospace distributors? 

While AS9120 certification is not legally mandatory, it has become a practical requirement for participating in aerospace supply chains. Many Original Equipment Manufacturers and prime contractors require AS9120 certification as a prerequisite for supplier approval, making certification essential for accessing aerospace business opportunities.

What are the key requirements for maintaining AS9120 certification? 

Maintaining AS9120 certification requires ongoing compliance through annual surveillance audits, continuous improvement activities, staff training updates, and system monitoring. Organizations must demonstrate sustained performance of their quality management system and address any non-conformances identified during audits within specified timeframes. Effective supplier quality management practices are essential for maintaining certification compliance.

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