QMS/SMS

If you are a production approval applicant/holder, you probably already know about the requirement to have a Quality Management System (QMS), often referred to just as a Quality System (QS), that meets the FAA's Part 21 regulatory requirements.  A QMS helps to ensure that each product or article manufactured conforms to it's type design and is in condition for safe operation.  The QMS also ensures that when there are non-conforming articles, they are segregated from the rest of production until such time as they can be appropriately dispositioned.

If you are a repair station, you also must have a QMS which meets the FAA's Part 145 regulatory requirements.  While many of the QMS requirements are similar, there is less emphasis on meeting type design, and more emphasis on "condition for safe operation".

Developing a QMS that meets your business needs can be difficult at times.  The technical experts here at AviationRCS can help you develop, submit, and incorporate a QMS that meets the regulatory requirements.  We can also review your QMS and offer feedback as to opportunities for improvement.

In 2015, the FAA adopted Part 5, Safety Management Systems (SMS).  While the rule was applicable to air carriers operating under Part 121, it was written in such a way as to facilitate expansion to other types of certificate holders. In 2024, the Part 5 rule was expanded to include Part 21 TC/PC holders, Part 91 Air Tour Operators, and Part 135 Air Carrier Operators.  To date, SMS remains voluntary for Part 145 Repair Stations.  However, because SMS is a global initiative, and many other Civil Aviation Authorities have implemented SMS requirements, some Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) holders and/or repair stations that do business internationally are choosing to implement SMS as part of their business plan. 

Developing and implementing an SMS that meets your business needs can be difficult at times. We here at AviationRCS are uniquely qualified to assist your company in performing gap analysis and developing a framework for implementing an SMS under the FAA's voluntary program.