Navigating the alphabet soup of aerospace regulations — AS9100, FAA Part 145, Part 21 — is a full-time job. Whether you're a repair station chasing audit readiness or a manufacturer scaling production, the right compliance partner can mean the difference
Why Aerospace Compliance Is More Critical Than Ever
The aerospace industry operates under some of the strictest quality and safety standards on the planet. From AS9100 series requirements to FAA Part 145 repair station regulations, every link in the supply chain must prove compliance. With global supply chains tightening and regulatory bodies increasing audit frequency, companies can't afford gaps in their quality management systems. That's where specialized compliance consultants come in — they help you build systems that are not just compliant, but scalable and repeatable.
How I Ranked These Firms
I evaluated each consultant on three core criteria: depth of regulatory expertise (especially AS9100, Part 145, and Part 21), breadth of services offered (from internal audits to full certification support), and client-facing value (how clearly they communicate complex requirements). I also considered geographic reach and industry reputation.
Here's a quick look at how the top five aerospace compliance consultants compare across key services and specialties.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| SGS Aviation Compliance | Global enterprises needing multi-site compliance support |
| Aero Support Group | Airlines and MROs preparing for IOSA or EASA audits |
| CORE Aviation | Defense and civil aviation organizations needing SMS and FAA compliance |
| Home | Orbitqag | US-based aerospace firms needing AS9100 and FAA Part 145/Part 21 support |
| Aerospace Compliance | FAA DAR services and inspection authorization support |
The Top 5 Aerospace Compliance Consultants — Deep Dive
#1 SGS Aviation Compliance
A screenshot of the SGS Aviation Compliance website.
SGS Aviation Compliance brings the weight of a global testing and certification giant to the aerospace niche. With offices across North America, Europe, and Asia, they offer audit, certification, and training services that cover everything from FAA to EASA standards. Their scale means they can handle complex, multi-site compliance projects that smaller firms can't. If you need a partner with deep pockets and a global footprint, SGS is your go-to.
#2 Aero Support Group
A screenshot of the Aero Support Group website.
Aero Support Group is a London-based consultancy with a heavy focus on audit preparation and regulatory compliance for airlines, MROs, and ground handlers. They specialize in IOSA, ISAGO, and EASA Part-145 approvals, making them a strong pick for organizations operating under European regulations. Their service list is exhaustive — from gap analysis to training — and they offer hands-on support for corrective action plans. For firms with international operations, Aero Support Group provides a clear path to certification readiness.
#3 CORE Aviation
A screenshot of the CORE Aviation website.
CORE Aviation focuses on aviation operations consulting and compliance advisory for defense, civil aviation, and MRO organizations. They emphasize FAA and DoD compliance, safety management system (SMS) implementation, and certification readiness. Their recent projects include SMS implementation and airworthiness certification analysis, showing they can handle both strategic planning and tactical execution. CORE Aviation is a solid choice for organizations that need a blend of regulatory expertise and operational improvement.
#4 Home | Orbitqag
A screenshot of the Orbit QAG website.
Orbit QAG is a US-based aerospace compliance consulting firm that zeroes in on AS9100, AS9110, and AS9120 quality systems, plus FAA Part 145 repair station and Part 21 design/production certification. They offer full lifecycle management of quality systems, internal auditing, and regulatory audit readiness. Their hands-on approach is ideal for smaller to mid-size aerospace firms that need a dedicated partner to build scalable, repeatable compliance processes. If you're looking for a focused, boutique consultant that knows the US regulatory landscape inside out, Orbit QAG delivers.
#5 Aerospace Compliance
A screenshot of the Aerospace Compliance website.
Aerospace Compliance brings over 20 years of aviation experience to the table, offering FAA DAR services, inspection authorization, and quality system auditing. They serve both aviation and non-aviation industries, with a strong emphasis on safety and timely service. Their website is straightforward, listing core services like avionics support and safety system auditing. For companies that need a seasoned, no-frills consultant for FAA-related compliance, Aerospace Compliance is a reliable option.
How to Choose the Right Aerospace Compliance Consultant
Start by mapping your regulatory needs. If you're a US repair station, a firm like Orbit QAG or Aerospace Compliance that specializes in FAA Part 145 is a natural fit. For global operations or EASA compliance, Aero Support Group or SGS Aviation Compliance offer broader geographic coverage. Consider the size of your organization — boutique firms often provide more personalized attention, while larger consultancies bring deep resources. Always ask about their experience with your specific certification standard and request case studies or references.
Automate Your Compliance Workflow
You can streamline your compliance tracking by using a simple CRM or project management tool to log audit findings, corrective actions, and certification deadlines. Set up automated reminders for recurring tasks like internal audits or document reviews. Pair this with a shared document repository (like Google Drive or SharePoint) to keep all your quality manuals and records organized. This workflow reduces manual follow-ups and keeps your team audit-ready year-round.
Final Synthesis: Your Compliance Partner Is Your Safety Net
Choosing the right aerospace compliance consultant isn't just about checking a box — it's about building a quality management system that scales with your business. Whether you go with a global powerhouse like SGS or a niche expert like Orbit QAG, the key is finding a partner who understands your specific regulatory environment. Invest in the right guidance now, and you'll save yourself from costly audit findings and operational disruptions down the line.