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Aerospace quality demands perfection. When components fail at 30,000 feet (9.14 km), the consequences extend far beyond cost overruns.
Quality zoomed into first place as the clear winner with 94.22% of votes in aerospace manufacturing considerations. This represents a 30% leap from 2023, reflecting the industry’s heightened focus on quality following high-profile manufacturing issues.
Enter NADCAP-approved suppliers—the gold standard that aerospace manufacturers increasingly demand.
The Gold Standard Beyond ISO
NADCAP stands for National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program. While ISO certifications provide basic quality frameworks, NADCAP approved suppliers represent the premium standard specifically designed for aerospace and defense applications.
This accreditation program emerged from a simple problem. Before NADCAP, aerospace companies conducted their supplier audits, creating redundant work without improving results. Each major manufacturer had different standards, different audit processes, and different acceptance criteria.
The industry needed standardization.
NADCAP solved this by establishing unified standards developed by government and industry experts. Over the last 35 years, only the best companies in the global aerospace supply chain have achieved this exclusive certification, demonstrating why NADCAP approved suppliers are highly sought after.
Access to the Inner Circle
NADCAP approved suppliers enjoy access to opportunities that remain closed to uncertified competitors. Major aerospace clients like Boeing, Airbus, Honeywell, and Rolls Royce often require this certification before considering new suppliers.
The numbers tell the story. Over 60 OEMs participate in the NADCAP program, providing approved suppliers with visibility throughout the industry and access to major contracts.
For metal fabrication companies, this certification represents more than quality validation. It provides competitive differentiation in a market where precision and reliability determine success, especially for those serving both aerospace and military fabrication sectors.
The Rigorous Certification Process
Becoming NADCAP approved involves rigorous evaluation by experienced auditors who understand aerospace manufacturing requirements. These auditors examine processes, documentation, equipment calibration, and personnel qualifications.
The initial certification lasts 12 months from the audit date. The first two reaccreditations also span 12 months each. After demonstrating consistent performance, subsequent reaccreditations can extend to 18 or 24 months based on supplier performance history.
Companies must maintain standards continuously to retain their approved status. This ongoing commitment ensures that NADCAP approved suppliers consistently deliver quality that meets aerospace industry demands.
Benefits That Compound
For buyers, purchasing from NADCAP approved suppliers eliminates the need for conducting separate audits. This saves time and money while ensuring higher quality parts with lower failure rates.
The certification demonstrates a supplier’s commitment to excellence and best practices. Companies with multiple reaccreditations show consistent quality over time, providing additional confidence for long-term partnerships.
From a manufacturing perspective, approved suppliers benefit from standardized processes that ensure consistency across production runs. The rigorous standards reduce rework rates and lower scrap rates, improving overall efficiency.
The industry benefits from improved safety standards and reduced component failures. When every supplier in the chain meets the same high standards, the entire aerospace ecosystem becomes more reliable.
Why We Maintain NADCAP Certification
At New Age Metal Fabricating, we understand that aerospace applications demand the highest levels of precision and reliability. Our status as NADCAP approved suppliers reflects our commitment to meeting these exacting standards.
We’ve held this certification for years, demonstrating consistent performance that aerospace clients can depend on. This certification complements our other accreditations, including AS9100D certified status and ISO certifications, providing comprehensive quality assurance for both aerospace and military fabrication projects.
Our specialization in ruggedized enclosures and precision-machined parts for aerospace applications aligns perfectly with NADCAP requirements. We maintain the documentation, process controls, and quality systems that aerospace manufacturers require.
The certification process keeps us sharp. Regular audits ensure we stay current with evolving industry standards and best practices. This continuous improvement mindset drives innovation in our manufacturing processes.
Choosing Your Aerospace Supplier
When selecting suppliers for aerospace applications, NADCAP approved status should be a primary consideration. This certification indicates that a supplier has invested in the systems, processes, and personnel necessary to meet aerospace quality standards.
Look for NADCAP approved suppliers with multiple reaccreditations, as this demonstrates sustained performance over time. Consider the specific NADCAP disciplines that align with your manufacturing requirements, whether that’s welding, heat treating, or machining.
Evaluate the supplier’s overall quality management system beyond just NADCAP certification. The best aerospace suppliers combine approved status with other relevant certifications and a track record of successful project delivery.
Key Takeaways:
- NADCAP approved suppliers provide access to major aerospace contracts and eliminate redundant audits for buyers
- The certification ensures consistent quality standards across the global aerospace supply chain
- Approved status demonstrates sustained commitment to excellence through regular reaccreditation requirements
Partner with Proven NADCAP Approved Suppliers
New Age Metal Fabricating combines NADCAP approved status with decades of aerospace experience. Our certified team delivers precision components that meet the most demanding aerospace standards, backed by comprehensive quality systems and continuous improvement processes.