Why AS9100 Is Being Updated
The aerospace quality standard you know as AS9100 is being updated and rebranded as IA9100. This update is expected to align with ISO 9001:2026 and reflect the way today’s aviation, space, and defense organizations operate.
It’s not a complete rewrite. Instead, the update clarifies expectations and strengthens areas that matter most—like leadership, supply chain oversight, cybersecurity, and product safety. Here’s what organizations should be aware of and start preparing for.
Expected Changes in IA9100 / AS9100:2026
1. Leadership and Quality Culture
What’s expected:
Top management will be expected to do more than sign off on policies—they’ll need to actively demonstrate ethical behavior and foster a strong quality culture.
Why it matters:
Quality flows from leadership. When leaders model the right behaviors, the whole organization is more likely to adopt quality as part of everyday decisions.
Practical tips:
- Show visible involvement in quality initiatives
- Include quality culture in performance discussions
2. Cybersecurity and Information Security
What’s expected:
Information security will become a more visible part of the QMS. Protecting digital records, process data, and system access is now considered part of maintaining product quality.
Why it matters:
Cyber incidents can disrupt operations, compromise traceability, and put product quality at risk. Integrating cybersecurity helps prevent these issues.
Practical tips:
- Assess cyber risks for ERP, design, and quality systems
- Control access, implement backups, and maintain audit trails
- Train staff on cybersecurity responsibilities
3. Supplier Oversight
What’s expected:
Supplier controls will be strengthened, including sub-tier suppliers. Organizations may need to adopt risk-based audits and supplier development programs.
Why it matters:
Your quality is only as strong as your suppliers. Strong oversight prevents defects, delays, and safety risks.
Practical tips:
- Monitor supplier performance regularly
- Conduct risk-based audits of critical suppliers
- Maintain clear traceability and transparency
4. APQP and PPAP
What’s expected:
Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) will continue to be emphasized as key tools for product realization.
Why it matters:
Structured planning reduces risk, improves first-pass quality, and helps ensure customer and regulatory requirements are met.
Practical tips:
- Apply APQP for new products and significant changes
- Use PPAP to verify production readiness
- Include APQP in the design and manufacturing cycle systematically.
5. Counterfeit Parts and Product Safety
What’s expected:
Preventing counterfeit parts and ensuring product safety will become formal QMS expectations. Organizations will need to proactively detect, report, and manage these risks.
Why it matters:
Even a single counterfeit or unsafe part can compromise safety and regulatory compliance.
Practical tips:
- Train staff to identify and reject counterfeit parts
- Strengthen traceability of high-risk components
- Incorporate product safety in risk management, audits, and planning
What This Means for Your Organization
Below is a list of the expected changes. Auditors may focus more on:
- Leadership involvement and quality culture
- Cybersecurity integration in QMS processes
- Supplier oversight and sub-tier management
- APQP and PPAP application
- Counterfeit parts and product safety management
Key Takeaways
- IA9100/AS9100:2026 emphasizes leadership, quality culture, and operational accountability
- Cybersecurity, supplier oversight, and product safety will be more visible in the QMS
- Structured planning and proactive risk management support consistent product quality
- Preparing early helps reduce risk and makes audits easier
By understanding these expected updates and taking practical steps now, your organization can strengthen its Quality Management System, engage employees at all levels, and be ready for IA9100 / AS9100:2026 when it arrives.
“A strong quality system starts with leadership. When leaders live quality and ethics every day, the entire organization follows.”
