Exploring EN 9100: current key results and future opportunities – a study in the Spanish aerospace industry

This study analyses if the objectives of the EN 9100 framework, EN 9100 standard, and its certification schema developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group have been reached and if they have been beneficial for aerospace companies. Fewer studies have been conducted on the EN 9100 framework than on other standards, and studies on the compulsory component are also rare. This in-depth interview study aims to address that gap. Case selection is conducted by identifying experienced actors in the sector, high-level managers from all layers of the Spanish aerospace supply chain (Tiers 0, 1, and 2), and certified auditors. The results show that the framework has been beneficial for the companies, even though some of its objectives – such as sharing best practices and cutting additional customer requirements – have not been achieved. Opinions regarding the framework’s benefits vary according to the supply chain level. The most favourable view is found in larger companies, all of which highlighted company motivation as a prime factor. These firms consider that EN 9100 is not focused on innovation but on improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the established strategy.