PPAP vs FAI

PPAP vs FAI in aerospace

FAI proves the first production article against the engineering definition. PPAP is a broader production approval package that uses FAI as one evidence element when AS9145 is flowed down.

Updated July 2, 2026 · AS9102 Rev C · Source-linked guide

AS9145 PPAP and AS9102 FAI mapping diagram for aerospace suppliers

Side-by-side

Question	FAI / AS9102	PPAP / AS9145
Main purpose	Verify the first production article and FAIR package.	Approve the production part and process evidence package.
Core artifact	Forms 1, 2, 3 with ballooned drawing and evidence.	PPAP file with multiple APQP evidence elements.
Timing	First production run, changed scope, or re-accomplishment trigger.	After APQP work reaches product and process validation.
Scope	Characteristic and evidence traceability for the FAIR.	Broader process capability, control plan, MSA, packaging, and customer requirements.

AS9145 element map

IAQG APQP/PPAP material maps FAIR into the product/process validation phase. Practically, that means your AS9102 package should be consistent with the design record, process flow, PFMEA, control plan, MSA, and initial capability evidence used for PPAP.

AS9102 Forms 1-3 guideHub guide with all fields and release checklist Full vs partial FAIDecision flowchart and Field 14 examples Ballooned drawing examplesDownloadable examples paired with Form 3 rows FAI software pricingPublic price signals and budget questions

Source notes

Frequently asked questions

Is FAI the same as PPAP?

No. FAI is a required evidence package for the first article. PPAP is broader and shows that the production process can meet requirements at the intended rate when AS9145 or customer requirements apply.

Can the AS9102 FAIR be part of PPAP?

Yes. IAQG APQP/PPAP material identifies FAIR as an element of production validation evidence.

Changelog

July 2, 2026: Published the Wave 2 AS9102 resource page with source notes, FAQ schema, visible freshness date, and sitemap entry.

Prepare the FAIR before the rework starts

Articul pre-fills Forms 1-3 from the print and routes anything uncertain to you, including drawing notes and title-block fields, while keeping the review tied to the source drawing.

Upload a drawing

Hosted upload is for non-controlled drawings only. Do not upload export-controlled (ITAR/EAR) technical data to hosted; ask about self-host.