SAE International

Section 01: Organizations & Authorities

Definition

A global professional association and standards development organization that develops consensus technical standards, recommended practices, and information reports for the aerospace and automotive industries. In aviation, SAE International produces Aerospace Recommended Practices (ARPs) and Aerospace Standards (AS) that are widely used in certification projects, including ARP4754B (development assurance for aircraft systems), ARP4761A (safety assessment processes), and AS9100 (quality management systems for aviation).

Where This Shows Up

SAE documents are developed through technical committees comprising industry, regulatory, and academic participants. ARPs are recommended practices providing guidance on processes and methodologies, while AS documents are formal standards specifying requirements. SAE documents are frequently referenced by FAA ACs and EASA AMC as acceptable means of compliance.

Primary Sources

SAE International — Aerospace Standards

The portfolio of SAE aerospace standards and recommended practices.

Artifacts Produced

Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP)

Documents that recommend practices, procedures, and methodologies for aerospace applications. ARPs are guidance, not mandatory requirements.

Aerospace Standard (AS)

Documents that specify technical requirements for aerospace products, processes, or services.

Related Terms

ARP4754B — Guidelines for Development of Civil Aircraft and SystemsARP4761A — Guidelines and Methods for Conducting the Safety Assessment Process on Civil Airborne Systems and Equipment

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