AS 9120 Certification UK
Aerospace Stockist & Distributor Quality Management System. Ensure supply chain integrity, traceability, and counterfeit prevention.
Introduction to AS 9120
In the aerospace and defence supply chain, traceability, authenticity, and product integrity are just as critical as manufacturing quality. For stockists and distributors, the risk is not how parts are made—but how they are sourced, stored, handled, and supplied. AS 9120 provides the internationally recognised framework that ensures aerospace distributors meet the highest expectations for safety, compliance, and trust.
AS 9120 is the aerospace quality management standard specifically designed for stockists, distributors, and suppliers of aerospace parts. It builds on ISO 9001 while adding stringent aerospace controls for counterfeit prevention, traceability, documentation, and supplier assurance.
What is AS 9120?
AS 9120 is a quality management system (QMS) standard developed for organisations that procure, store, and distribute aerospace parts, without performing manufacturing or design activities.
It is maintained by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) and is aligned globally with EN 9120 (Europe) and JISQ 9120 (Asia).
In practical terms, AS 9120 helps organisations:
- Ensure parts are authentic, conforming, and traceable
- Prevent counterfeit or suspect parts entering the supply chain
- Maintain strict control of storage, handling, and documentation
- Meet OEM, Tier 1, and regulatory requirements
For many aerospace customers, AS 9120 certification is mandatory for approval as a supplier.
Why AS 9120 was created
Historically, aerospace distributors were audited to a mix of customer-specific requirements, leading to inconsistency and gaps—particularly around counterfeit parts, documentation control, and traceability.
Standardisation
Standardise quality requirements for aerospace distributors across the global supply chain
Integrity
Strengthen supply-chain integrity and airworthiness assurance
Risk Reduction
Reduce risk associated with falsified or non-conforming parts
Global Confidence
Provide global confidence in distributor competence
The standard recognises that distributors play a critical safety role, even though they do not manufacture parts.
Why AS 9120 matters for UK organisations
For UK-based aerospace stockists and distributors, AS 9120 is often the gateway to doing business with:
Aircraft and engine OEMs
Original Equipment Manufacturers require certified suppliers
Defence primes
Ministry of Defence and defence contractors mandate compliance
MRO organisations
Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facilities need assured supply chains
Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers
Major aerospace manufacturers require certified distributors
Without AS 9120 certification, many organisations are excluded from approved supplier lists. Certification demonstrates compliance with international aerospace expectations and supports regulatory oversight from bodies such as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
It also provides strong protection against reputational damage arising from counterfeit or undocumented parts.
Who AS 9120 is for
AS 9120 applies to organisations involved in:
📦 Aerospace Parts Stockists & Distributors
Companies that stock and distribute aerospace components
🔧 Hardware & Component Suppliers
Suppliers of fasteners, fittings, and hardware
🧪 Material & Consumables Distributors
Distributors of raw materials and consumables
⚙️ Spare Parts & Rotables Suppliers
Suppliers of spare parts and repairable components
🔄 Aftermarket Aerospace Supply Chains
Aftermarket suppliers and support organisations
It is suitable for organisations supplying civil aviation, defence, and space sectors.
Key principles of AS 9120
AS 9120 includes all ISO 9001 requirements plus aerospace-specific controls, including:
Traceability
Full traceability of parts, documentation, and approvals throughout the supply chain.
Counterfeit Part Prevention
Robust controls to prevent counterfeit or suspect parts from entering the supply chain.
Supplier Approval & Monitoring
Ensuring parts are sourced only from approved and verified suppliers.
Storage & Handling Controls
Protecting product integrity during storage, handling, and transport operations.
Documentation & Record Control
Managing certificates of conformity, airworthiness data, and traceability records.
Risk Management
Identifying and mitigating supply-chain risks and quality threats.
Benefits of AS 9120
Internal Benefits
- Improved control of inventory and documentation
- Reduced risk of non-conforming or suspect parts
- Clear responsibilities and accountability
- Stronger operational discipline
Strategic Benefits
- Access to global aerospace supply chains
- Approved supplier status with OEMs and MROs
- Increased customer confidence and trust
- Long-term contract opportunities
Compliance & Risk Benefits
- Reduced exposure to counterfeit-related incidents
- Strong defence against regulatory or contractual challenges
- Alignment with aviation safety expectations
What AS 9120 auditors actually look for
AS 9120 audits are detailed and evidence-driven. Auditors typically assess:
Supplier Approval Processes
Verification of authorised sources and approved supplier lists
Traceability Records
Batch, serial, and documentation control throughout the supply chain
Counterfeit Prevention Measures
Risk assessment and controls to prevent suspect parts
Storage & Handling Conditions
Preservation of product integrity in storage and distribution
Training & Competence
Staff awareness of aerospace risks and quality requirements
Evidence of Use
Proof the system operates effectively day-to-day
Audits are typically more demanding than ISO 9001 audits due to the safety-critical nature of aerospace supply chains.
AS 9120 in practice (real-world examples)
Aerospace Stockist
A UK aerospace distributor achieves AS 9120 to supply certified components to MROs and defence customers. Improved traceability and supplier controls unlock new approved supplier listings.
Aftermarket Parts Supplier
An aftermarket supplier uses AS 9120 to strengthen counterfeit prevention and documentation management—reducing risk and increasing customer trust.
Common mistakes when implementing AS 9120
Assuming ISO 9001 Is Sufficient
AS 9120 introduces significant aerospace-specific requirements beyond ISO 9001.
Weak Counterfeit Controls
This is a major audit focus and common non-conformity area.
Poor Documentation Management
Missing or incorrect paperwork can result in serious audit findings.
AS 9120 certification process
Stage 1: Documentation & Readiness Review
The auditor confirms your QMS meets AS 9120 requirements.
Stage 2: Certification Audit
A detailed audit verifies implementation and effectiveness.
Surveillance Audits
Annual audits ensure ongoing compliance and improvement.
Recertification
A full reassessment every three years renews certification.
How long does AS 9120 certification last?
AS 9120 certification is valid for three years, subject to successful annual surveillance audits. Failure to address major non-conformities can lead to suspension or withdrawal—often with immediate contractual consequences.
How much does AS 9120 cost in the UK?
Costs vary depending on:
- Organisation size and number of employees
- Scope of distribution activities
- Number of sites and suppliers
Typical costs include:
- accredited certification audit fees
- Consultancy and gap analysis (if required)
- Internal training and system maintenance
While demanding, AS 9120 delivers strong ROI through market access and risk reduction.
AS 9120 and integration with other standards
AS 9120 follows the Annex SL High-Level Structure, allowing integration with:
ISO 9001
Quality Management foundation
ISO 14001
Environmental Management
ISO 45001
Health & Safety
ISO 27001
Information Security
Many aerospace distributors operate a fully Integrated Management System (IMS).
Who should NOT implement AS 9120?
If your organisation does not distribute aerospace parts or supply the aerospace/defence sector, AS 9120 is unlikely to be appropriate. The standard requires strong discipline, documentation control, and ongoing oversight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is AS 9120 mandatory in the UK?
No, but it is frequently a contractual requirement for approved supplier status.
Is AS 9120 the same as EN 9120?
Yes. They are regional versions of the same global standard maintained by IAQG.
Can SMEs achieve AS 9120?
Yes. Many UK aerospace SMEs are successfully certified to AS 9120.
Is AS 9120 harder than ISO 9001?
Yes. It includes additional aerospace-specific and safety-focused requirements.
Ready to achieve AS 9120 certification?
Get accredited AS 9120 certification and unlock access to global aerospace supply chains.
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