Glossary

First article inspection (FAI)

What first article inspection means, how it relates to first-off samples, and when UK brands should request FAI-style evidence.

What it is

First article inspection (FAI) is a structured check that initial production parts match the approved design data — often with dimensional reports and process evidence.

How it differs from a casual sample

A photo of a sample is not an FAI. If you need formal evidence, say so in the RFQ and agree the format before production starts.

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