Operation Of Air Traffic Control Towers

The Product and Service Code (PSC) M1BA covers the operation of air traffic control towers, encompassing comprehensive air traffic control (ATC) services, maintenance, and support for various government facilities. These services include managing aircraft separation, maintaining ATC equipment, providing project management, and ensuring safe and efficient airspace operations. The scope extends to both military and civilian airfields, supporting critical transportation and defense infrastructure across different geographical locations.

The federal contract awards under this PSC category demonstrate a robust market for ATC services, with contracts typically ranging from $5 million to $200 million and performance periods spanning 5-10 years. Key contractors include Midwest Air Traffic Control Service Inc., Serco Inc., Robinson Aviation (Rva), Inc., and CI2 Aviation, Inc. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Defense, particularly the Army's Installation Management Command, are primary funding agencies. Most contracts are firm-fixed-price and issued without specific small business set-asides, covering ATC operations at approximately 260 Visual Flight Rules (VFR) airports nationwide, including locations in the continental United States, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and Saipan.

The recent federal contract opportunity posted involves air traffic control services for Biggs Army Airfield at Fort Bliss, Texas. The solicitation seeks a comprehensive ATC service contract with a firm-fixed-price structure, including a 30-day phase-in period, an 11-month base period, and four 12-month option years. The contract requires contractors to manage aircraft separation, maintain ATC equipment, and provide project management with personnel maintaining SECRET clearance. The government will use a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable evaluation approach, with contractors expected to operate on a 24/7 schedule and support critical operations for military units like the 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade.