Quality Systems

Aurora's commitment to quality and repeatable corporate processes is demonstrated by the company's ISO 9001:2000 and AS 9100:2004 certifications. In addition to these certifications, Aurora has earned a number of prime contractor process certifications as well as Nadcap accreditations in Quality Systems, Chemical Processing, Heat Treat, Non-Destructive Inspection, and Composites Manufacturing.

Aurora also maintains a robust non-destructive inspection capability at its Bridgeport, WV facility. Aurora uses a Structural Diagnostics SDI 5730 10-axis through-transmission ultrasonic C-scan, two Panametrics Epoch IV, and a Phased Array system to ensure composite fabricated parts and structurally bonded parts meet customer specifications. Fluorescent dye penetrant inspection is also available for inspection of metallic components. Aurora also uses multiple measurement systems throughout the manufacturing process, including: a six foot FARO Arm portable CMM, a Brown and Sharp Global Fx Model 7107 Air Bearing CMM with a 28” x 40” X 28 capability, a 150 foot diameter working area FARO Lasertracker, a three foot by five foot optical inspection bench, and Rockwell hardness and Electrical Conductivity systems. Destructive material testing is performed utilizing a 10,000 pound capacity Tinius Olsen Tester, Model H50KS.

Copies of Aurora's ISO certifications may be downloaded here:

• Bridgeport, WV
• Manassas, VA
• Columbus, MS

Northrop Grumman Platinum Status

Aurora Flight Sciences has received Platinum Source Supplier status from the Northrop Grumman Corporation. To receive Platinum status, a Northrop Grumman supplier must have a minimum of 99% Hardware Acceptance, 95% On-Time Delivery Performance and maintain a score of at least a 5 out of a possible 10 points in each of Customer Satisfaction and Process Health for four consecutive quarters. Aurora’s advanced composites manufacturing facility is currently AS9100 certified and Nadcap accredited for a variety of special processes.
Aurora has been part of Northrop Grumman’s Global Hawk team building every V-tail since 1995. Aurora has steadily increased its Global Hawk workshare which now includes all of the aircraft’s composite components except the wing and radome.
Becoming a Platinum Source Supplier is a team achievement. Over two-thirds of Aurora’s roughly 150 employees in West Virginia work on the Global Hawk. “The drive for continuous improvement in our processes is a tribute to our dedicated workforce,” stated Ron Richman, General Manager of Aurora WV. Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Systems Sector Director, John Saliture, said, “By Aurora’s selection into Northrop Grumman’s Platinum Source Program, Aurora has demonstrated that you have met the rigorous standards imposed by Northrop Grumman – this is by no means an easy feat. Our performance requirements are some of the highest in the industry. Northrop Grumman recognizes our Platinum suppliers as essential partners and teammates, committed to unquestionable quality, continuous quality improvement and flawless delivery performance.”