National Aerospace Standard (NAS) Parts

“NAS” stands for National Aerospace Standard, with the NA prefix signifying Metric standards. NAS Standards include part standards for high strength, precision fasteners. NAS define high-pressure hose, electrical connectors, splices and terminations, rod end bearings, and many other types of aircraft hardware and components, along with all types of screws, nuts, and rivets. The Aerospace Industries Association has coordinated with the U.S. Department of Defense to convert over 500 MIL-SPECs to NAS. All parts that satisfy the National Aerospace Standard carry either the prefix “NASM” or “NAM,” signifying inch based and metric based measurements, respectively. The standard is procured to the MS part number. The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) is the one responsible for developing and maintaining standards for NAS parts and some NASM / NAM parts. The National Aerospace Standards Committee (NASC) is a component of AIA and is responsible for operations and issues that affect the development of aircraft, missiles, space vehicles, and aerospace systems. It’s responsibilities include coordinating policy, requirements, and standards for technical and operations issues.