AS9120 Aerospace Distribution Quality Management

AS9120:2016 (AS9120B) is an internationally recognized quality management standard developed for organizations that stock and distribute parts, materials, and assemblies within the aerospace, space, and defense sectors. Created by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG), it builds on the ISO 9001:2015 framework and introduces additional requirements specific to the needs of aviation supply chains, such as enhanced traceability, counterfeit prevention, and robust documentation. Certification to AS9120:2016 demonstrates that a distributor or supplier maintains high standards of quality, compliance, and operational excellence throughout every stage of the supply chain. Kiwa provides independent certification services to help aerospace distributors and suppliers meet these rigorous requirements and support continuous improvement in quality and compliance.

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What is A9120?

AS9120 was specifically created to meet the quality management requirements of distributors in the aerospace sector—organizations responsible for procuring, storing, and supplying parts without changing their design or function. The standard builds on ISO 9001 by introducing additional aerospace-focused requirements, including enhanced product safety, prevention of counterfeit parts, risk management, supplier oversight, and comprehensive traceability. AS9120 certification is suitable for stockists and distributors of aerospace parts, materials, and assemblies, as well as suppliers managing traceability, storage, or splitting of parts, and those coordinating customer or regulatory processes. Achieving AS9120 certification helps ensure that distributed products consistently meet airworthiness, reliability, and performance standards, supporting safer operations and a more secure supply chain.

Benefits of the Service

Partnering with Kiwa for AS9120 certification provides a range of benefits:

· Global recognition through registration in the IAQG OASIS database.

· Access to OEM supply chains and major aerospace procurement networks.

· Independent verification of your quality and traceability controls.

· Enhanced customer trust and long-term business partnerships.

· Reduced operational costs through standardized processes and fewer audits.

· Improved supplier relationships and performance monitoring.

· Strengthened reputation as a reliable, compliant aerospace distributor.

· Aligns with ISO 9001 while addressing distributor-specific risks and controls.

Define the Certification Scope

The process starts with a detailed review of the organization’s operations and product range. Based on this assessment, a tailored proposal is developed to clearly define the certification scope and outline the most suitable audit approach for the business.

Audit and Assessment

The certification audit is carried out in two stages:

Stage 1 – Documentation and Readiness Review: Evaluation of management system documentation, readiness for certification, and risk control measures.

Stage 2 – On-Site Assessment: A comprehensive on-site audit to verify process implementation, traceability, and compliance with all AS9120 requirements.

The management system must be fully operational for at least three months, with internal audits and a management review completed before proceeding.

Certification and Ongoing Improvement

Once conformity is demonstrated, an AS9120 certificate is issued, valid for three years. To maintain certification, surveillance audits are conducted in the first and second years, followed by a recertification audit in the third year. These ongoing assessments help ensure continuous compliance and support ongoing performance improvement.

Risk-based Thinking

AS9120 introduces several updates that strengthen aerospace supply chain assurance, and embeds proactive risk management across all processes.

Product Safety

Addresses safety from procurement through distribution.

Counterfeit Part Prevention

Introduces measures to detect and prevent fraudulent components.

Change Management

Ensures controlled, documented change processes to maintain consistency.

Organizational Knowledge

Encourages sharing of expertise and lessons learned to safeguard quality.

Human Factors

Recognizes the influence of people, training, and performance in quality outcomes.

Obsolescence Planning

Requires organizations to anticipate and manage product obsolescence risks.

Ethical Behaviour and Awareness

Promotes responsibility, accountability, and ethical conduct.

Why Choose Kiwa?

Kiwa is an accredited certification body with a strong reputation in the aerospace, defense, and high-technology sectors worldwide. Clients benefit from certification services that are recognized globally, including listing in the IAQG OASIS database. Kiwa’s team includes experienced aerospace auditors with in-depth industry knowledge, ensuring thorough and relevant assessments. Integrated certification options are available, such as AS9100, AS9110, and ISO 9001, to support organizations with multiple compliance needs. For AS9120 certification in the United States, audits are conducted under ANAB accreditation. Kiwa’s approach is based on partnership and trust, supporting clients in achieving compliance and driving continual improvement in their management systems.