A Study on the Direction of Establishing KASA Aviation Innovation Mission Assurance System through Analysis of Global Aerospace Agencies' Frameworks

The shift toward software-centric aviation systems and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) introduces technical uncertainties that cannot be fully identified or managed within the traditional certification framework during the R&D phase. This study proposes strategic directions for establishing the “Korea Aviation Innovation Mission Assurance System” to enhance the technical maturity and safety of aviation R&D programs led by the Korea AeroSpace Administration. By analyzing NASA’s independent technical authority, ESA’s standardized product assurance, and JAXA’s on-site technical support, this study derives implications suitable for Korea’s aviation ecosystem. The results present a public–private cooperative governance model combining technical independence with field-level support, a two-tier documentation system (Requirements–Guidelines), and five core mission assurance elements prioritizing risk management. The proposed framework complements, rather than replaces, aircraft certification by strengthening technical maturity and safety throughout the R&D lifecycle.