Defining First Article Inspection (FAI)
First Article Inspection (FAI) is the process of verifying that a new or revised part meets all engineering, design, and quality requirements before full production begins. By thoroughly measuring and documenting the first manufactured piece, you establish a baseline that ensures every subsequent part can be produced consistently and accurately.
The First Article Inspection Process
Step 1 — Produce the first article part
Step 1 — Produce the first article part
Manufacturing creates an initial sample based on the design.
Step 2 — Measure critical features
Step 2 — Measure critical features
Each dimension and tolerance is inspected with precision tools.
Step 3 — Compare to the drawing
Step 3 — Compare to the drawing
Results are checked against the engineering specifications.
Step 4 — Document the findings
Step 4 — Document the findings
A formal inspection report captures compliance and deviations.
Step 5 — Approve for production
Step 5 — Approve for production
Once approved, full-scale manufacturing can begin with confidence.