First Article Inspection (FAI)
First Article Inspection validates tooling, process capability, and documentation before mass production ramps.
In automotive and aerospace, FAIs are a pillar of PPAP submissions, providing proof that production is ready.
What happens during an FAI
Inspectors measure every critical dimension on sample units, review material certifications, and confirm process parameters against the approved plan.
Any deviation is documented and dispositioned before the supplier receives authorization to proceed.
Collaborating with suppliers
Suppliers prepare detailed inspection reports, photographs, and supporting certificates.
Buyers often require accompanying certificates of conformity to complete the approval package.
Managing FAIs in KaizenQ
KaizenQ templates allow teams to track every FAI checkpoint, attach measurement evidence, and capture sign-offs from engineering and quality leaders.
Once approved, the same template becomes the baseline for in-process and final inspections.
- FAIs confirm production readiness before scaling output.
- They demand rigorous documentation shared between suppliers and buyers.
- KaizenQ centralises FAI evidence and sign-off workflows.