February 18, 2025 Aerospace, Articles, Events, News Industry Forum were privileged to have the opportunity of attending a recent event at Rolls-Royce Derby arranged by the Midlands Aerospace Alliance. The event was well organised and there was no doubting the efforts taken by the Midlands Aerospace Alliance to make this event a success, with members of the Rolls-Royce senior management team being very generous with their time and approachability. It was a pleasure to rub shoulders with likeminded individuals who share a passion for the growth and success of the Aerospace sector in the Midlands. Attendees were given insights into strategic initiatives being taken at Rolls-Royce and treated to a plant tour. It was interesting to hear from Craig Askew – Manufacturing Operations. Craig shared his pride and passion for the Rolls-Royce production system. It was also interesting to hear from James Partington – Procurement. James shared the key procurement priorities for Rolls-Royce Having had the opportunity digest the activities and events of the day it is evident that there are several common themes running through Rolls-Royce with an expectation that the Rolls-Royce supply chain will follow suite. One of these themes is the drive towards Zero defects. Adopting a zero defects mentality and approach is essential for the long-term survival of the civil aerospace sector. The Zero defects approach is a mindset that is underpinned by tools and techniques employed throughout the Design and Manufacture of Aerospace product. In its simplest form it can be described by the diagram below: When considering creating a structured process to support Zero Defects then Aerospace Standard AS9145 defines Aerospace requirements for Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and Production Part Approval (PPAP). This standard provides a more comprehensive approach for planning for product quality with the benefit that it embeds the key elements of the Zero defects approach. The message from Rolls-Royce seems to be clear. They are enjoying the benefits of Zero defects gained by implementing Advanced Product Quality Planning and they are promoting its use by the supply chain. APQP benefits the supply chain, it benefits Rolls-Royce, and it benefits the customers of Rolls-Royce. Industry Forum can support your organisations drive towards Zero defects with training courses covering Design/Process FMEA & Control Plan, MSA, Process Control and Problem Solving. We also offer training and consultancy for AS9145.
