Out-Sourcing and the ASNT Central Certification Program

Regardless of whether aircraft maintenance and repair is performed in-house or out-sourced, nondestructive testing (NDT) is a highly important element. Through centralized qualification and certification of NDT personnel, greater assurance can be placed on the outcome of NDT performed in support of those processes. Enhanced safety and reliability of operational aircraft can result from assurances that a standardized level of competency has been achieved by the NDT practitioners involved.

The ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP) is a standardized, comprehensive, and flexible approach to centralized qualification and certification of NDT Level II and Level III personnel. General examinations in five Methods of NDT have been administered. Within ACCP, there are provisions for specific industrial sectors, such as Aircraft Maintenance and Repair, to organize and establish the NDT personnel qualification requirements unique or common to the industrial sector. This process and its benefits are presented.