What is AS9120?
AS9120 is the internationally recognized Quality Management System standard specifically for aerospace distributors, stockists, and suppliers who procure and sell aerospace parts and materials.
First published in 2002 and based on ISO 9001, AS9120 was developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) to address the critical quality and traceability requirements of the aerospace distribution supply chain. The standard adds aerospace-specific requirements for supplier evaluation, counterfeit part prevention, product identification and traceability, storage conditions, handling and preservation, and configuration management that go beyond generic ISO 9001 requirements.
AS9120 applies to organizations that procure parts, materials, and assemblies from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or other approved sources and distribute them to manufacturers, MRO facilities, airlines, or other aerospace organizations. It covers the entire distribution lifecycle—from supplier qualification and procurement through receiving, inspection, storage, inventory management, order fulfillment, and delivery. The standard emphasizes maintaining complete traceability, preventing counterfeit and suspect unapproved parts (SUAP), and ensuring product authenticity and airworthiness.
AS9120 integrates with ISO 9001 (Quality Management) Learn more → as its foundation and complements AS9100 (Aerospace Manufacturing) Learn more → and AS9110 (Aerospace Maintenance) Learn more →. AS9120 certification is increasingly required by aerospace OEMs, airlines, and prime contractors as a condition for approved supplier status.