AFD Systems, a Lancashire-based advanced engineering and manufacturing specialist, has successfully achieved Part 21G Production Organisation Approval (POA) from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth within the aerospace sector.
AFD Systems is the first company in the UK to be awarded an approval that is entirely focused and specialised towards polymer additive manufacturing for aviation.
This approval confirms AFD Systems’ capability to meet stringent airworthiness and regulatory standards for the manufacture of flightworthy components. It authorises the company to produce parts in accordance with approved Part21J design data, further enhancing its technical and operational credentials.
In addition, the approval enables AFD Systems to release fully certified components with EASA/CAA Form 1 certification, supporting customers across civil and special mission aviation markets.
Achieving Part 21G status underlines AFD Systems’ commitment to the highest standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. It also strengthens the organisation’s ability to deliver high-integrity engineering and manufacturing solutions, with full traceability and rigorous process control throughout production.
Jerrod Hartley, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Securing our Part 21G approval is a major achievement for AFD Systems and a proud moment for our entire team. It reflects more than two years of focused effort, discipline, and commitment in building a robust and fully compliant organisation. This approval significantly strengthens our position within the aerospace sector and enables us to deliver even greater value to our customers through certified, high-quality manufacturing capability.”
Garry Sellick, Manufacturing Manager, added: “This approval represents an important step forward for the business. It reflects the dedication of our team and our ongoing investment in robust quality systems and technical excellence. With Part 21G approval, we are well positioned to support our customers with certified manufacturing solutions and to expand our role within the global aerospace supply chain.”
The certification follows a comprehensive and rigorous assessment process, including detailed evaluation of AFD Systems’ quality management systems, production operations, facilities, and personnel competencies.
With Part 21G approval now secured, AFD Systems is ideally positioned to:
• Exploit the aerospace market for the supply of flightworthy polymer ALM components.
• Expand our offering into Part21J Design Organisations beyond design and certification support to include ALM part manufacture.
• Supply high-quality ALM parts into other high-integrity sectors (i.e. defence, nuclear, sub-sea & automotive) with demonstrable expertise, quality and governance.
• Deliver integrated turnkey solutions spanning design, analysis, and manufacture.
AFD Systems remains committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality across all aspects of its operations.