UK eVTOL developer Vertical Aerospace has achieved AS9100 certification, the internationally recognised quality management standard for aviation, space and defence companies. The company announced the milestone on November 12, World Quality Day, and said it believes it is the first eVTOL developer to earn the certification.
The certification was awarded by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and covers Vertical’s quality management system for both design and production. According to Vertical, it follows a year-long effort to tighten quality practices across the business before BSI’s independent assessment.
AS9100 was developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group and adds aerospace-specific requirements on top of the general ISO 9001 standard. Vertical noted that it is the same benchmark used by large manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing.
Why it matters
Vertical says the certification gives airline customers and operating partners independent assurance about the processes, facilities, suppliers and people that will sit behind production and delivery of its aircraft. It can also open doors to commercial work where AS9100 is a prerequisite.
CEO Stuart Simpson said the standard reflects what customers expect and the discipline the company is applying to Valo, its piloted four-passenger eVTOL. BSI’s Giancarlo Silvestri, global head of aerospace and defence assurance, called the certification an important step in Vertical’s development as an aerospace manufacturer.
AS9100 is a quality management certification, not aircraft type certification; Valo still has to complete the regulatory certification process before entering service.
More Info:
Vertical Aerospace (Official website): click here
BSI (Official website): click here
Vertical Aerospace Becomes First eVTOL Developer to Achieve AS9100 Aerospace Quality Certification: click here