Sofema Online (SOL) takes a deep dive into the QA practices in place at European Airports.

Introduction

In European aerodromes, Quality Assurance serves as the backbone of regulatory compliance and certification. Its role is distinctly separate from that of Quality Control, focusing on the mandatory assessment of compliance through independent verification of QC processes and other operational practices. QA ensures that aerodromes meet the necessary regulatory standards for safety, security, and environmental management, thereby maintaining their certification and operational privileges. This clear delineation of QA's role highlights its importance in the regulatory framework governing European aerodromes, ensuring they adhere to the highest standards of operational integrity and safety.

Sharing a view - Steve Bentley CEO of Sofema offers his take on how we interpret the terms QA & QC

Introduction - Is there a difference between EASA/FAA & ISO? Interpretation of Quality Assurance & Quality Control?

Well yes but first let's start with this interpretation (not mine) - Quality Glossary Definition: Quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC)

      » Quality assurance and quality control are two aspects of quality management.
      » While some quality assurance and quality control activities are interrelated, the two are defined differently.
      » Typically, QA activities and responsibilities cover virtually all of the quality system in one fashion or another,
      » While QC is a subset of the QA activities.
      » Also, elements in the quality system might not be specifically covered by QA/QC activities and responsibilities but may involve QA and QC.

Sofema Aviation Services www.sassofia.com looks at the challenges of using Compliance Audit Techniques to determine the effectiveness of a “supplier”

What do we Mean by Third Party when we talk about auditing?

Means that the organisation is “Stand Alone” or “Stand Apart”. So effectively we are connected to the Organisation for business purposes, however, we cannot exert direct control.

This is an important consideration because in some cases the where the relationship is sub-contractual the “Contracting Organisation” is held accountable for the diligence and acceptable delivery including standards, management oversight and the effective control of competence.