18-R-9014_CWN_Airtankers_-_Conformed_thru_Amend_2.pdf

Solicitation No. 12-024B-18-R-9014 US. Forest Service National CWN Large Airtanker Services National Office

This is a synopsis for Call When Needed (CWN) Basic Ordering Agreement(s) (BOAs) and any resulting orders for Next Generation (NG) Large Airtanker (LAT) services for large fire support wildland firefighting on a nationwide basis. LATs are used for initial attack operations and large fire support.

The Government intends to have BOAs with multiple vendors for CWN NG LAT services. The BOA contains the terms and clauses applying to future orders, a description of the requirement and methods of pricing, issuing and delivering orders. The BOA is not a contract. The placement of any orders is not guaranteed. The effective period of the resultant agreement(s) will be from date of award to December 31, 2020. This procurement will be 100% set aside for small business concerns.

THIS WILL BE THE ONLY FORMAL NOTICE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF BASIC ORDERING

AGREEMENTS AND ACTS AS NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH FAR 5.201 FOR THE ORDERS

WHICH WILL BE PLACED DURING THE PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE.

AGREEMENT ESTABLISHMENT PROCEDURES

The Government will establish agreements resulting from this synopsis to all Offerors who submit the required documentation and are determined to be responsible, technically acceptable and submit fair and reasonable pricing.

The Offeror must propose aircraft with daily availability and hourly flight rates as listed in Section B.2 Schedule of Items AND B.3 Offered Aircraft.

ORDERING PROCEDURES

The Government has Basic Ordering Agreements with multiple vendors for CWN NG LAT services.

Orders for services may be placed only by those identified herein to place orders. After BOAs are awarded, based on operational needs the CO will order aircraft which is determined to be the best value to the Government.

To determine best value for each order, the CO will consider the following factors:

Aircraft capability, Aircraft location, Availability and Cost

The costs will be determined based on the firm fixed-priced costs awarded in the BOA and the relative importance of these factors will vary depending upon the requirements of each fire incident. The Government’s urgency in acquiring services may be a factor and override any other criteria identified above. The Government does not guarantee the placement of any orders for service under the BOA and the Contractor is not obligated to accept any orders. However, once the Contractor accepts an order, the Contractor is obligated to perform in accordance with the terms and conditions stated herein.

The Contractor agrees to perform at the fixed prices specified in Schedule B. Failure to reach an agreement on price for any order issued before its price is established is a dispute under the Disputes clause included in the Basic Ordering Agreement.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ii

OFFEROR’S COPY

(Ref. 48 CFR 1) Issuing Office:

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER

U.S. FOREST SERVICE, CONTRACTING

OWYHEE BUILDING - MS 1100

3833 S. DEVELOPMENT AVE

BOISE, ID 83705-5354 This solicitation can be downloaded from the following

Internet site: https://www.fbo.gov/ Offers Are Solicited For:

National CWN Next Generation Large Airtanker Services

Solicitation No:

12-024B-18-R-9014

Issued Date:

- The offeror shall submit the following items in response to this solicitation:

1. Solicitation Offer and Award form SF-33 (Section A), blocks 13 through 18. (Complete, date, and sign).

2. Fill in and provide the appropriate information requested in Sections A (SF-33 Form), B and K.

Provide copies in accordance with L-6 (a)(4).

THE SOLICITATION PACKAGE SHALL BE RETURNED TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER

U.S. FOREST SERVICE, CONTRACTING

ATTN: SOLICITATION NO. 12-024B-18-R-9014

OWYHEE BUILDING - MS 1100

3833 S. DEVELOPMENT AVE

BOISE, ID 83705-5354

No facsimile (FAX) offers will be accepted.

Offeror’s questions must be submitted and received by mail or e-mail. Offerors may contact Matt Olson for information about this solicitation at 208-387-5835 or E-mail: mdolson@fs.fed.us.

“The policy of the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, disability, family status, and/or political affiliation.” Persons believing they have been discriminated against in any Forest Service related activity should write to: Chief, Forest Service, USDA, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090.

Previous editions of this form are obsolete. FS-6300-44 (11/79) https://www.fbo.gov/ mailto:mdolson@fs.fed.us i

PART I - THE SCHEDULE

SECTION A - SOLICITATION OFFER AND AWARD FORM

STANDARD FORM 33

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

B.1 PRICING AND ESTIMATED QUANTITIES 1

B.2 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS 2

B.3 OFFERED AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS 2

B.4 OFFERORS SHALL STATE THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF aircraft they are able to Provide. 4

B.5 AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS 4

B.6 AIRCRAFT/RETARDANT TANK(S) 5

B.7 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS 6

B.8 BASIC COVERAGE 6

B.9 STANDBY HOURS 6

B.10 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE 6

B.11 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 6

C.1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT 7

C.2 CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVALS 8

C.3 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY INSTALLATION OPERATIONS SERVICES 8

C.4 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED RESOURCES 8

C.5 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS 9

C.6 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE 10

C.7 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED AVIONICS SYSTEMS 12

C.8 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT SECURITY 12

C.9 OPERATIONS 15

C.10 CONTRACTOR’S ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES 20

C.11 PERSONNEL 21

C.12 SUSPENSION AND/OR REVOCATION OF PILOT/MECHANIC 25

C.13 RANDOM DRUG TESTING 25

C.14 SUBSTITUTION OR REPLACEMENT OF PERSONNEL, AIRCRAFT, AND EQUIPMENT 26

C.15 FLIGHT HOUR AND DUTY LIMITATIONS 26

C.16 ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND SAFETY (SEE EXHIBIT 12 – SYNOPSIS OF AVIATION

SAFETY PROGRAM) 29

C.17 MISHAPS 30

C.18 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE 31

C.19 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 32

C.20 MISSION ORDERING PROCEDURES 33

D.1 RESERVED 35

E.1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998) 36

E.2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 36

E-3 AIRTANKER CREW PROFICIENCY FLIGHTS 36

E.4 AIRCRAFT SECURITY INSPECTIONS 37

F.1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB1998) 38

F.2 EFFECTIVE PERIOD OF AGREEMENT (AGAR 452.211-75) (FEB 1988) 38

F.3 AVAILABILITY 38

G.1 POST AWARD CONFERENCE (AGAR 452.215-73) (NOV 1996) 41

G.2 PAYMENT PROCEDURES 41

G.3 FLIGHT TIME MEASUREMENT 41

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G.4 PAYMENT FOR FLIGHT 41

G.5 PAYMENT FOR AVAILABILITY/UNAVAILABILITY 42

G.6 PAYMENT FOR EXTENDED STANDBY 42

G.7 REIMBURSEMENT FOR MOBILIZATION AND DEMOBILIZATION COSTS 42

G.8 PAYMENT FOR OVERNIGHT ALLOWANCE (PERSONNEL) 43

G.9 MISCELLANEOUS COSTS TO THE CONTRACTOR 43

G.10 PAYMENT FOR FUEL – AIR CARD PROGRAM 43

G.11 EXTENDED STANDBY ADJUSTMENT 43

H.1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-1) (FEB 1998)

H.2 CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION (AGAR 452.224-70) (FEB 1988) 44

H.3 COMMERCIAL FILMING AND VIDEOTAPING 45

H.4 KEY PERSONNEL (AGAR 452.237-74) (FEB 1988) 45

H.5 EMPLOYMENT OF ELIGIBLE WORKERS (4G52.222-701) (DECEMBER 1999) 46

H.6 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM (CPARS) 47

H.7 DAILY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 48

I.1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998) 49

I.2 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (FAR52.217-8) (nov 1999) 51

I.3 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR VETERANS (FAR 52.222-35) (OCT 2015) 51

I.4 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR WORKERS WITH DISABILITES (FAR 52.222-36) (JUL 2014) 51

I.5 STATEMENT OF EQUIVALENT RATES FOR FEDERAL HIRES (FAR 52.222-42) 51

I.6 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY INSTALLATION OPERATION SERVICES (FAR 52.245-2) 52

I.7 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE 52

I.8 STATEMENT OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS (AGAR452.211-72) (FEB 1988) 52

I.9 ATTACHMENTS TO STATEMENT OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS (AGAR 452.211-73) 53

I.10 INSURANCE COVERAGE (AGAR 452.228-71) (NOV 1996) 53

J.1 LIST OF EXHIBITS 54

EXHIBIT 1 – BASIC EQUIPMENT AND FIRE EQUIPMENT 55

EXHIBIT 2 – STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY PROGRAM 56

EXHIBIT 3 – AVIONICS 65

EXHIBIT 4 – ADDITIONAL TELEMTRY UNIT SYSTEM DESCRIPTION 73

EXHIBIT 5 – FLIGHT EQUIPMENT 74

EXHIBIT 6 – FIRST AID KIT - AERONAUTICAL 75

EXHIBIT 7 – SURVIVAL KIT – AERONAUTICAL (LOWER 48 AND ALASKA) 76

EXHIBIT 8 – AIRCRAFT MARKINGS 78

EXHIBIT 9 – LOAD CHART 79

EXHIBIT 10 – DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE REQUIREMENTS (ALASKA) 81

EXHIBIT 11 – US GOVERNMENT AIR CARD FUEL PROGRAM 85

EXHIBIT 12 – SYNOPSIS OF AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM 87

EXHIBIT 13 – DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS 94

EXHIBIT 14 – DEPARTMENT OF LABOR WAGE DETERMINATION 99

EXHIBIT 15 – AIRCRAFT RECORDS AND MANUALS 113

EXHIBIT 16 – AIRCRAFT FLIGHT & MAINTENANCE LOG – SAMPLE 114

EXHIBIT 17 – AIRTANKER INSPECTION FORM 115

EXHIBIT 18 – DAILY RETARDANT USE RECORD 119

EXHIBIT 19 – AIRCREW TRAINING FORM 120

EXHIBIT 20 – BALANCED CRITICAL FIELD LENGTH 121

EXHIBIT 21 – PUBLIC AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS 122

EXHIBIT 22 – CPARS EVALUATION FORM 123

EXHIBIT 23 – RETARDANT TANK REQUIREMENTS 128

EXHIBIT 24 – WEIGHT AND BALANCE FORM 129

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EXHIBIT 25 – ALASKA, CARIBBEAN, CANADA, AND MEXICO SUPPLEMENT 132

K.1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-1) (FEB 1998)

K.2 CERTIFICATE OF INDEPENDANT PRICE DETERMINATION (FAR 52.203-2)(APR 1985) 134

K.3 ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS (FAR 52.204-8) (JAN 2018) 135

K.4 CERTIFICATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (FAR 52.209-5)(OCT 2015) 139

K.5 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (FAR 52.209-7) (JUL 2013) 142

K.6 SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REPRESENTATIONS (FAR 52.219-1) (OCT 2014) 143

K.7 PREVIOUS CONTRACTS AND COMPLIANCE REPORTS (FAR 52.222-22) (Feb 1999) 147

K.8 REPRESENTATION BY CORPORATIONS REGARDING DELIQUENT TAX LIABILITY OR A

FELONY CONVICTION UNDER ANY FEDERAL LAW (FAR 52.209-11) (FEB 2016) 147

K.9 PREDECESSOR OF OFFEROR (FAR 52.204-20) (JUL 2016) 147

L.1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-1)(FEB 1998)

L.2 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS-COMPETITiVE ACQUISITION (FAR 52.215-1) (JAN 2004) ALTERNATE II (oct 1997) 149

L.3 TYPE OF CONTRACT (FAR 52.216-1) (APR 1984) 153

L.4 SERVICE OF PROTEST (FAR 52.233-2) (SEP 2006) 154

L.5 INQUIRIES (AGAR 452.204-70) (FEB 1988) 154

L.6 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPERATION OF TECHNICAL AND BUSINESS PROPOSALS

(AGAR 452.215-71) (SEP 1999) 154

L.7 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS (AGAR 452.215-72) (FEB 1988) 158

M.1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-1) (FEB 1998)

M.2 EVALUATION QUANTITIES – INDEFINITE-DELIVERY CONTRACT (AGAR 452.216-72) 159

(FEB 1988) 159

M.3 AWARD DETERMINATION 159

M.4 EVALUATION FACTORS 159

SOLICITATION OFFER AND AWARD 1. THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED ORDER

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 350)

RATING PAGE OF PAGES

1 149

2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3. SOLICITATION NUMBER

12-024B-18-R-9014

4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION

SEALED BID (IFB)

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

5. DATE ISSUED

06/15/2018

6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NUMBER

7. ISSUED BY CODE 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7)

U.S. FOREST SERVICE – CONTRACTING

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER

3833 S. DEVELOPMENT AVENUE, MS 1100

BOISE, ID 83705-5354

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations, "offer" and "Offeror" mean "bid" and "Bidder".

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and (See Section L.6) copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 7, or if hand carried, in the depository located in FOREST SERVICE CONTRACTING OFFICE until 2:00 PM (MST) local time 07/16/2018

(Hour) (Date) CAUTION - LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All Offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

10. FOR

INFORMATION

CALL:

A. NAME

Matt Olson

B. TELEPHONE (NO COLLECT CALLS) C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

mdolson@fs.fed.us

AREA CODE

(208)

NUMBER

387-5835

EXT.

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

(X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S) (X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S)

PART I – THE SCHEDULE PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

X A SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM X I CONTRACT CLAUSES 48-52

X B SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS 1-6 PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS X C DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK 7-33 X J LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 53-129

X D PACKAGING AND MARKING 34 PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

X E INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 35

X K REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND

OTHER STATEMENTS TO OFFERORS OR RESPONDENTS

130-145

X F DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE 37-39

X G CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA 40-42 X L INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS 146-155

X H SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 43-47 X M EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD 156-156

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror) NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within 180 calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item, delivered at the designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

(See Section I, Clause No. 52-232-8)

10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 20 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 30 CALENDAR DAYS (%) CALENDAR DAYS (%)

14. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMEND-

MENTS (The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors and related documents numbered and dated):

AMENDMENT NO. DATE AMENDMENT NO. DATE

15A. NAME AND

ADDRESS

OF OFFER-

OR

CODE FACILITY 16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER

(Type or Print)

NINE DIGIT DUNs NUMBER: .

15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER 15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS IS

DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE – ENTER SUCH

ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

17. SIGNATURE 18. OFFER DATE

AREA CODE NUMBER EXT.

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED 20. AMOUNT 21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION:

10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) ( ) 41 U.S.C. 253 (c) ( )

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS

SHOWN IN (4 copies unless otherwise specified)

ITEM

24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7) CODE 25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

ATTN: INCIDENT BUSINESS – CONTRACTS

ALBUQUERQUE SERVICE CENTER

101B SUN AVENUE NE

ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87109

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

28. AWARD DATE

IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition is unusable

STANDARD FORM 33 (REV. 9-97)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

Solicitation No. 12-024B-18-R-9014 U.S. Forest Service

SECTION B

SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

B.1 PRICING AND ESTIMATED QUANTITIES

The intent of this solicitation and any resultant Call When Needed (CWN) Basic Ordering Agreement(s) (BOAs) is to obtain Next Generation (NG) Large Airtanker (LAT) services for initial attack wildland firefighting on a nationwide basis. The priority mission for LATs is for initial attack to support ground operations. The Government intends to have BOAs with multiple vendors for CWN NG LAT services. The placement of any orders is not guaranteed. The effective period of the resultant agreement(s) will be from date of award to December 31, 2020.

This procurement will be 100% set aside for small business concerns. The Government will award agreements resulting from this solicitation to all Offerors who are determined to be responsible, technically acceptable and submit fair and reasonable pricing.

Offeror’s proposed fixed-price rates shall include all labor, equipment, materials, State and Federal taxes, insurance coverage, overhead, lodging, Meals & Incidental Expenses (M&IE) and profit. Care should be taken to provide a separate Technical and Business/Price Proposal in accordance with the solicitation instructions in Sections L and M. The Technical and Business/Price proposals shall be separate and complete so that evaluation of one may be accomplished independently from evaluation of the other. (The business/price proposal shall not be included in the same binder/package as the technical proposal).

Offerors must provide all information in Section B, Schedule of Items, as requested. The Government does not intend to limit the number of awards for acceptable aircraft.

In the attached Schedule of Items, pricing is for aircraft with the Government furnishing the retardant through Government operated bases.

The Offeror must propose aircraft with daily availability and hourly flight rates as listed in Section B.2 Schedule of Items. The Offeror shall provide a list of known Government airtanker bases from which they are capable of operating in accordance with Section L. The Offeror may be requested to operate at additional or temporary bases which they can safely operate from.

Offerors with Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) interim approval shall provide a reduced availability rate to the Government because of the airtankers’ incomplete validation to deliver retardant.

B.2 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

Principal Base of Operations: ____________________________________ (List City and State) Item No. 1

Tanker N-Number Tanker Number Tanker/Make/Model

Item 1.A Daily Availability Rate1

Unit Price (1 to 14 Days)1,2,3

Unit Price (15 to 30 Days)1,2,3

Unit Price (31 or more Days)1,2,3

Base Year 2018 $ $ $

Year 2019 $ $ $

Year 2020 $ $ $

Item 1.B Hourly Flight Rate (Dry)1

Unit Price (1 to 30 Hours)1,2,3

Unit Price (31 to 71 Hours)1,2,3

Unit Price (72 or more Hours)1,2,3

Base Year 2018 $ $ $

Year 2019 $ $ $

Year 2020 $ $ $

(The above table format shall be used for each aircraft being offered) 1 Daily Availability Rate is based on a 14-hour day and includes mandatory 9-hour work days.

During the period where the flight crew is required to be on standby beyond the first 9 hours required (rounded-up to the next full hour) for availability, the Contractor will be paid at an hourly Extended Standby Rate of $51.00 per hour for each authorized flight crew member and each authorized mechanic.

2 Contractors shall propose daily availability and hourly flight rates, as identified above, based on the actual amount of daily usage and flight hours the aircraft receives throughout each year.

For example, the Contractor will be paid the daily availability price proposed for days 1 through

14. When the Contractor reaches day 15, the Contractor will be paid the daily availability price proposed for days 15 to 30 and so on. The same concept applies to the hourly flight rate. The number of days and hours of usage will start over each year of the agreement.

3 Offerors with IAB interim approval- will submit the most recent IAB letter documenting the IAB interim approval. In B.2 for each line item being proposed state a daily availability rate that reflects a 10% reduction from known or previously stated Call-When-Needed rates.

Offerors with IAB interim approvals must gain IAB full approval at the end of the IAB time period stated in the letter. If the Offeror’s airtankers have not achieved full approval when the interim approval expires, this contract may be terminated.

Offerors with IAB full approval - submit the most recent IAB letter documenting the IAB full approval. In B.2 for each line item being proposed state a daily availability rate.

B.3 OFFERED AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS

The aircraft shall be multi-engine and turbine powered.

The payload weight is based on an average of 9 pounds of mixed retardant per gallon. Aircraft with 3000-5000- gallon (27,000-45,000 pounds) dispensing capacity are preferred. Dispensing volume shall be the volume in US gallons identified on the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) interim or full approval letter for the proposed aircraft.

Aircraft less than 3000 gallons or greater than 5000 gallons are not considered necessary or more desirable than aircraft in the target volume, given the priority mission for these airtankers is initial attack. The airtanker will be expected to carry its maximum mixed retardant payload from all Assigned Work Locations (AWLs).

Dispensable volume for purposes of meeting the minimal acceptable capacity is measured as sea level with zero wind and ISA plus 30°F conditions (89°F) and a ground roll of 6,000 feet or less.

Offered aircraft should be less than 165,000 pounds Normal Operating Weight. Aircraft of this weight and size category currently operate from the existing pits at the majority of permanent airtanker bases without performance limitations, additional support equipment or runway, ramp, taxiway and loading pit limitations. Airtankers shall be capable of loading and operating from 90% of permanent airtanker base pits and airports. Refer to C-8 Operations for additional information.

The payload weight is based on an average of 9 pounds of mixed retardant per gallon. The minimum acceptable volume for this solicitation is 3,000 gallons (dispensable) and 27,000 pound payload capability of mixed retardant at Sea Level and ISA plus 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

The airtanker will be expected to carry its maximum mixed retardant payload from all Assigned Work Locations (AWLs). “Dispensable payload” for purposes of meeting the minimum acceptable capacity is measured at sea level with zero wind and ISA plus 15F conditions and a ground roll of 6,000 feet or less.

Offered Aircraft Tanker

N- Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model/Serial #

Retardant Payload 1

Normal Operating

Wt.

Cruise

(KIAS) 2

Hourly Fuel

Consumption

Tank

Capacity

1 The payload weight is based on an average of 9 pounds of mixed retardant per gallon.

Dispensing volume shall be the volume in US gallons identified on the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) interim or full approval letter for the proposed aircraft.

2 Cruise speed is based on maximum payload on board utilizing cruise power or maximum speed restriction by the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC). Cruise speed is computed at 12,000 feet MSL, at maximum payload with power as required to maintain best speed without exceeding manufacturer or FAA operating limitations. Offeror shall describe the fuel flow and conditions for the submitted cruise speed. Aircraft proposed shall be capable of 300 knots (KTAS) or greater with maximum payload at Flight Level 180 as demonstrated by performance charts.

B.4 OFFERORS SHALL STATE THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF AIRCRAFT THEY ARE ABLE TO

PROVIDE.

Total number of aircraft: ______________

B.5 AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS

(a) Aircraft performance data shall be computed for each offered aircraft using the aircraft Normal Operating Weight determined by the following weight factors:

(1) Aircraft Empty Weight in mission configuration. ______________ lbs. (As weighed and lifted on calibrated scales within 60 days of the original proposal submittal due date or within 60 days of being carded as listed in Exhibit 20. Must be certified).

(2) Flight crew weight. __________ lbs. (200 lbs. per flight crew member-Estimated Weight). Refer to C.9 (j) (1) for approved flight crew requirements.

(3) 2½ hours of fuel computed at the cruise speed specified in B.3.________ lbs. (Jet A Fuel weight estimated at 6.8 pounds per gallon).

(4) Miscellaneous Contractor/Flight Crew items carried aboard the aircraft.________lbs.

(as listed in Exhibit 20 and includes Non-mission essential equipment per C.5. (d) (1)).

(5) Contracted retardant weight (payload). __________lbs. (Weight using 9 pounds per gallon).

(6) Weight penalty placed on the aircraft by the FAA for the tank installation.________lbs. (If applicable).

(b) Taxiing, Takeoff and Landing

(1) List all Airtanker Base locations that the company is unable or unwilling to work from including:

(i) Bases that you cannot operate out of at full retardant dispensing capacity with

2.5 hours of fuel and temperatures at ISA +26F, +31F, and +36F. Also see list in Exhibit 9).

(ii) Bases your aircraft can’t land with a full load of retardant, 2.5 hours of fuel and one engine inoperative.

(iii) Bases that have runways, taxiways, ramps, or any potential surface that cannot support your aircraft at Max Ramp Weight, Max Takeoff Weight, and Contract Required Fuel and Retardant weight.

(1) Offered aircraft in accordance with the manufacturer’s normal Takeoff configuration (using appropriate performance charts) shall be capable of accelerating on all engines to V2 per 14 CFR part 1.1 and lift-off within 80% of the effective runway.

(2) All contracted Forest Service Next Generation LATs shall carry the maximum contract retardant dispensing payload and shall carry the contract fuel load (no less than

2.5 hours) when departing from an airport in support of firefighting operations. When load and return missions are requested, it is not necessary to refuel if the amount of fuel on board is sufficient to complete the load and return request and the PIC can meet fuel reserve requirements. If downloading is necessary to meet environmental performance requirements, the PIC shall adjust the aircraft weight and balance to mitigate unnecessary risk. When downloading retardant is necessary, the Airtanker Base Manager (ATBM) shall document the retardant downloads.

(3) For takeoff, offered aircraft shall meet accelerate-stop requirements (must be able to show all performance charts and work). Aircraft shall be capable of accelerating on all engines to the manufacturer’s or FAA approved V1 (per 14 CFR part 1.1), experience a failed engine, and either continue to accelerate to takeoff with a failed engine within the remaining runway, or come to a complete stop on the runway. If V1 (per 14 CFR part 1.1) is not available, V2 (per 14 CFR part 1.1) shall be used in determining accelerate-stop requirements.

(4) The accelerate-stop distance shall not be greater than the length of the runway plus the length of the stopway (if present). For ex-military or restricted category airplanes, a stopway is a safety asset, but cannot be used in the accelerate-stop calculation.

In reference to the above requirements, vendors shall offer a Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) for the proposed aircraft. AFM’s are not acceptable substitutions.

B.6 AIRCRAFT/RETARDANT TANK(S)

Offered aircraft shall have Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) interim or full approval prior to airtanker inspection.

B.7 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS

Flight crewmembers shall be FAA qualified, FAA current, proficient, and approved for their assigned crew position.

B.8 BASIC COVERAGE

Six (6) consecutive days are ON duty and one (1) day is OFF duty per week; or if requested by the Government, 12 days ON duty and two (2) days OFF duty. Days OFF are not compensated.

B.9 STANDBY HOURS

Crew and Aircraft must standby the first 9 hours of each day ordered by the Government.

B.10 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE

Hours of standby in excess of the first 9 hours may be ordered by the Government. The extended standby rate is $51.00 per hour per authorized Flight Crewmember plus one (1) mechanic. The maximum total daily hours will not exceed 14. (See Section G.6).

B.11 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Additional information required to be submitted with your Proposal is contained in Section L, Instructions to Offerors-Competitive Acquisition (FAR 52.215-1) (JAN 2004).

SECTION C

DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

C.1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT

(a) The intent of this solicitation is to secure Call-When-Needed Basic Ordering Agreements for Next Generation Large Airtanker services operated by qualified personnel and equipped to meet the specifications of this request for proposals (RFP). The priority mission for large airtankers under this contract will be for initial attack (IA) of wildfires. The Pilot in Command shall be Initial Attack Captain (AKI) rated. These airtankers respond to new and emerging fires with typical missions of one hour or less. Once the Government orders a LAT, that LAT shall be made available for the exclusive use of the Government until released.

(b) The Government requires the use of one or more initial attack large airtanker(s) that can be dispatched to wildland fires on a nationwide basis without requiring a leadplane/ Aerial Supervision Module. Orders are based on predicted and existing fire activity. After the flight crew has been notified of an order and the airtanker loaded with fuel and/or retardant they shall be airborne within 15 minutes.

(c) Airtankers will be assigned annually, or at the time of order, a Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for contract management oversight. Airtankers will be dispatched nationwide based on predicted and existing fire activity.

(d) All services provided under this agreement shall be performed in a safe and efficient manner. Contractors shall use all reasonable means to support safety awareness and adherence to established FAA standards and procedures. All personnel will adhere to applicable USFS policy in Forest Service Manual 5700, Forest Service Handbook 5709.16 and all approved agency and interagency guides.

(e) Contractor personnel shall conduct themselves in a professional and cooperative manner in fulfilling this agreement.

(1) Performance of these services may involve work and/or residence on Federal property (National Forests and National Parks, etc.). Contractor employees are expected to follow the rules of conduct established which apply to all Government and non-Government personnel working or residing on Government facilities.

(2) Contractor personnel shall perform effectively, cooperate in the fulfillment of the required specifications and be willing and able to adapt to field living conditions. If the Contractor fails to provide employees that can comply with the terms of this agreement the CO can treat the failure as a breach, issue a stop work order if needed, and proceed with steps to discontinue the agreement.

(3) The CO shall notify the Contractor of any specifics of the unsatisfactory conduct and/or performance by Contractor personnel. The determination of unacceptability is at the sole discretion of the CO. The Contractor shall replace unacceptable personnel.

(f) The Contractor must provide all personnel, facilities, technical support, equipment, financial support, and materials required to accomplish the work required.

C.2 CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVALS

(a) Aircraft shall conform to an approved type design, be maintained and operated in accordance with Type Certificate (TC) requirements and applicable Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs).

The aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with an FAA approved inspection program and must include an FAA approved Supplemental Structural Inspection Document (SSID), Structural Inspection Document (SID), or Instruction for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) for the airframe structure, as applicable with an ICA and Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) approved by the manufacturer (or equivalent) and the FAA for the airtanker role.

(b) Contractors shall be currently certificated to meet Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 137 (Agricultural Aircraft Operations). Any aircraft offered shall be listed by make, model, series, and registration number on the Operator’s Certificates.

(c) Contractors are also required to hold a 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Station Certificate with a Class or limited airframe rating for offered aircraft. All maintenance shall be performed under the contractor’s Repair Station Certificate. Under certain circumstances non-CRS personnel may perform preventive maintenance functions such as those contained in 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A, if approved in advance by a USFS Aviation Maintenance Inspector.

(d) Aircraft shall be 14 CFR Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) certified.

(e) Any modification or alteration to the tank system that may alter the San Dimas Technology Development Center (SDTDC) retardant coverage test results shall be approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) prior to airtanker inspection.

(f) Any modification or alteration which affects the aircraft performance, flight characteristics, or operational limitations, must be approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) and the USFS Airworthiness Branch Chief.

C.3 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY INSTALLATION OPERATIONS SERVICES

If Government Furnished Property (GFP) is provided, the Contractor shall be required to sign a property receipt document. Upon Government request, GFP shall be returned to the Government in accordance with GFP FAR Clause 52.245-1 (APR 2012).

C.4 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED RESOURCES

(a) Those resources to be provided by the Government are an Aerial Supervision Module (ASM) or Leadplane (LP) to direct and coordinate each retardant drop for airtankers that are not Initial Attack (IA) qualified.

(b) The Contracting Officer shall designate a COR who will provide day-to-day oversight management, tracking, and process payments of the agreement when services are ordered.

Additional Project Inspectors (PIs) may also be assigned to assist with oversight at primary operating locations. The COR or PI on location will verify aircraft status with the contractor and communicate all dispatches to the designated company representative.

(c) The National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC) will retain operational control of the airtankers and work with Geographic Area Coordination Centers (GACCs) for deployment of these resources. Primary contact at NICC and the GACC will be the Center Manager. NICC and the GACC will ensure a LP or ASM is assigned for each operation, if required.

C.5 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS

(a) General

Aircraft must be turbine powered and have been issued a Standard or a Restricted Category Airworthiness Certificate and shall meet the following:

(1) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) that allows for the dropping of retardant on wildland fires (i.e. aerial dispersant of liquids);

Or

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) or equivalent approval for the aircraft for aerial dispersant of liquids.

(2) An OEM or equivalent Structural Integrity Program for the firefighting role.

(3) Aircraft should be able to be pressurized during non-retardant carrying flights per (§25.841 Pressurized cabins).

Note: Refer to Section J, Exhibit 2 for critical information regarding engineering, maintenance, inspection, and data collection and monitoring required by this agreement.

Failure to accomplish items and maintain compliance with the requirements identified in this exhibit will result in termination of this agreement. The Contractor shall keep and maintain programs necessary to assure continued compliance. The development and maintenance of this program is a material part of the performance of the agreement. When, in the sole judgment of the CO, the program does not comply the Government shall initiate termination of the agreement.

(b) Condition of Equipment

(1) Contractor-furnished aircraft and equipment shall be operable, free of damage, and in good repair. Aircraft fluid leaks shall be within the manufacturer’s specified limits.

Retardant tank, tank valves or connections shall not leak.

(2) All windows and windshields shall be clean and free of scratches, cracks, crazing, distortion, or repairs, which hinder visibility.

(3) The aircraft interior shall be clean and neat.

(4) The exterior finish shall be clean, neat, and in good condition. Low-visibility paint schemes are unacceptable (see Exhibit 8).

(5) If the aircraft has been used to disperse pesticides or herbicides it shall be supplied clean and odor free. The retardant tank(s) shall be cleaned in accordance with Federal Insecticide Fungicide Rodentacide Act (1969) (FIFRA) Regulations.

(c) Basic Aircraft and Fire Equipment

(See Section J, Exhibit 1).

(d) Non-mission Essential Equipment

(1) Non-mission essential equipment stored in the aircraft during firefighting missions will be limited to crew baggage, technician baggage (as applicable), essential ground support equipment, minimum essential consumable liquids and spare parts not to exceed 1 percent of the maximum operating/takeoff weight.

(2) Equipment stored in the aircraft shall be securely stored to prevent movement in flight (bungee cords are not acceptable).

(3) All mission essential equipment shall be documented in the aircraft weight and balance records.

C.6 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE

(a) General

(1) Aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with all applicable 14 CFR requirements.

Manufacturer’s Service Bulletins (SBs), or identified by an Airworthiness Directive (AD) note, shall be complied with during the period of the contract performance. Ex-military aircraft will comply with all civil equivalent Airworthiness Directives.

(2) Special equipment and/or modification of the aircraft to meet the specifications of this contract shall be inspected, repaired, and altered in accordance with 14 CFR requirements and manufacturer's recommendations or engineering data and be FAA approved.

(3) Unless authorized by an approved MEL, aircraft shall not be approved or used if any accessory or instrument is inoperative. Equipment required by this contract may not be deferred under the MEL, except for non-revenue ferry flights.

(4) All mandatory component retirement, replacement or overhaul times shall be adhered to as specified in the OEM Airworthiness Limitations Section or equivalent OEM document. FAA approved extensions, if applicable to items identified in the required Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) required by Exhibit 2, paragraph (d), is not allowed under any circumstances.

(5) Contract performance may subject the aircraft engine to frequent smoke, sand, and dust ingestion. All aircraft shall comply with the erosion inspection procedures at the recommended intervals in accordance with the engine operation and maintenance manual for the contracted aircraft.

(6) Maintenance of aircraft shall be recorded in accordance with 14 CFR Part 43 and Part 91 including aircraft time-in-service. Aircraft maintenance records shall be in accordance with the FAA Advisory Circular (AC) No. 43-9C as revised.

(7) A flight log similar to that required by 14 CFR 135.65(a) shall be kept with the aircraft. The log will contain the minimum items identified in Section J, Exhibit 16.

(8) Aircraft records and manuals shall be available to agency inspectors. See Section J, Exhibit 15.

(9) Aircraft shall be weighed and configured as an airtanker within 60 days of the original proposal submittal due date or within 60 days of being carded, and every 36 months thereafter. Exhibit 24, Form B is required. The aircraft shall also be weighed following any major repair or major alteration or change to the equipment list which significantly affects the center of gravity of the aircraft (see Exhibit 24, Form C).

(10) All weighing of aircraft shall be performed on scales that have been certified as accurate within the previous year (12 months).

The certifying entity may be any accredited weights and measures laboratory using standards traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The scales should be listed by make model and calibration date in the aircrafts weight and balance documentation (See Exhibit 24, Form B).

(11) An Equipment List shall be compiled for each offered aircraft. Weight and balance records shall be revised each time equipment is removed or installed. (A list of equipment installed in the aircraft at the time of weighing shall be compiled. The equipment list shall include the name, weight, arm and moment of each item installed.

Items that may be easily removed or installed for aircraft configuration changes (seats, radios, special mission equipment, etc.) shall also be listed including the name, weight, arm and moment of each item. Each page of the equipment list shall identify the specific aircraft by serial and registration number. Each page of the equipment list shall be dated indicating the last date of actual weighing or computation. The weight and balance shall be revised each time equipment is removed or installed which more than negligibly affects the center of gravity of the aircraft. See Exhibit 24 for an acceptable example.

(12) The CO shall be notified and a revised weight and balance record shall be submitted to the CO when an aircraft’s empty weight changes by + or - 1% or more.

(b) Structural Integrity Program

Refer to Section J, Exhibit 2. This Exhibit contains critical information regarding engineering, maintenance, inspection, and data collection and monitoring required by this contract.

(c) Engines and Propellers

(1) The maximum Time Since Rebuild or Time Since Overhaul (TSR/TSO) permitted on any engine installed on a contract airtanker shall not exceed the manufacturer’s approved or recommended times nor be operated when the efficiency becomes less than 95%.

(2) Extensions to maximum engine TSR/TSO must be approved by the FAA, provided the Contractor who provides the aircraft is the holder of the extension authorization (not the owner if the aircraft is leased), and shall operate in accordance with the extension.

(3) Each engine shall have at least 100 hours remaining before any overhaul or hot section inspection at the start of the Pre-Season (Mandatory) or shall be “backed-up” by a substitute engine having more than 100 hours remaining and installed in a QEC (Quick Engine Change) unit.

Note: QEC unit is defined as the engine complete with engine mount, accessories, and the necessary wiring and tubing assembled in such a manner that it can be installed on the aircraft in a minimum amount of time. A QEC unit need not have the cowling or propeller installed to be a complete unit. Maintenance records that meet 14 CFR Part 91 shall be kept with the QEC unit.

(4) A "Hot Section" inspection will not be considered as an overhaul on any turbojet or turboprop engine unless so specified by the manufacturer of the engine.

(5) Engine/propeller records shall be certified and appropriately-rated (14 CFR Part 43.3) or military authority; and shall be made available for inspection upon request.

Engines removed from storage (unsealed - 2 years; sealed - 5 years, or greater) shall be inspected for rust and corrosion, compliance with ADs, and attested airworthy by a certified power plant mechanic prior to entering service.

(d) Parts

Replacement parts shall be approved under 14 CFR 21.9 and shall have FAA, Military or OEM documentation. Parts that have been rebuilt, overhauled, inspected, modified, repaired, or tested shall have a maintenance release document signed by an appropriately certificated person qualified for the relevant function that signifies that the item has been returned to service.

(e) Maintenance Flights

A functional maintenance flight shall be performed following overhaul, repair, and/or replacement of any engine, power train, or flight control equipment, and following any adjustment of the flight control systems before the aircraft is returned to service. The flight (along with the associated fuel) shall be performed at the Contractor’s expense.

Results of the maintenance flights shall be reported to and approved by the USFS Maintenance Inspector before the aircraft is returned to Contract Availability.

C.7 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED AVIONICS SYSTEMS

See Section J, Exhibit 3.

C.8 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT SECURITY

(a) The security of Contractor provided aircraft and equipment is the responsibility of the Contractor.

(b) Aircraft shall be electrically and/or mechanically disabled by two independent security systems whenever the aircraft is unattended. Deactivating security systems shall be incorporated into preflight checklists to prevent accidental damage to the aircraft or interfere with safety of flight. Security devices that prevent the aircraft engines from being started do not need to be incorporated into the preflight checklist.

(c) Examples of Unacceptable disabling systems are:

(1) Locked door/windows; and/or

(2) Fenced parking areas

C.9 OPERATIONS

(a) General

Regardless of any status as a public aircraft operation, the Contractor shall operate in accordance with your approved 14 CFR Operations Specification, all portions of the applicable 14 CFRs and each certification required under the Contract.

After contract award, vendors may request a PAO Notice letter from the Forest Service through the Contracting Officer. (b) Initial Attack Response

(b) The Pilot in Command (PIC) shall be qualified as an AKI (Initial Attack Airtanker Pilot).

Unless requested on scene for safety or effectiveness, the airtanker shall be able to respond to fires and drop retardant without a leadplane/ASM.

(c) Airtanker Base Requirements

Airtankers shall be capable of operating from 90% of the permanent airtanker bases listed in Exhibit 9 based on the criteria in B-4. Operating is defined as:

• Capable of being loaded with retardant from the existing pit area with existing pit equipment without supplemental hoses, pumps or other loading equipment.

• Physically capable of entering and exiting the existing pit area without additional maneuvering or towing while maintaining wingtip clearances identified in the Interagency Airtanker Base Operations Guide

• The aircraft normal operating weight shall be less than the listed runway, ramp and pit load bearing capacity

Due to economic and environmental concerns aircraft shall only operate from airtanker bases that can offload its maximum offered contract load.

(d) Loading and Refueling

Aircraft shall not be refueled or left unattended with the engines running.

(1) Contractors may propose procedures for hot loading of retardant into their aircraft with supporting information to include a risk based analysis for the Government to consider. Retardant Hot Loading (RHL) is the loading of retardant with one or more propulsion engines running.

(2) Contractors may propose procedures for simultaneous loading of retardant and refueling with supporting information to include a risk based analysis for the Government to consider. Simultaneous loading is the concurrent loading of fuel and retardant with propulsion engines stopped.

(e) Pilot Authority and Responsibilities

(1) The PIC is responsible for the safe operation of the aircraft and the safety of its occupants and payload. The Pilot has final authority to determine whether the flight can be accomplished safely and shall refuse any flight or landing which is considered unsafe.

(2) Aircraft shall be operated within recommended flight envelope limitations. Aircraft operating in turbulent conditions shall not exceed authorized penetration speeds for the aircraft.

(f) Flight Equipment

See Section J, Exhibit 5.

(g) Flight Plans

A FAA or International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) IFR flight plan shall be filed and executed for the entire duration of all resource ordered flights not defined as or intended to be a Mission Flight. IFR flight plans shall be filed prior to takeoff, or inflight when the resource is ordered to another location while airborne. VFR flight following is not a substitute for an IFR flight plan. If an aircraft is unable to operate in IFR conditions, that aircrew must have CO or National Airtanker Program Manager (NATPM) approval prior to executing a resource ordered flight to another location.

Flights shall be flown in the most efficient manner while still meeting mission objectives. All flights shall be executed using the following to the max extent possible:

(1) Best altitude/winds aloft.

(2) Most direct route of flight. Requesting direct to destination as soon as able.

(h) Flight Following

Pilots are responsible for flight following with the FAA, ICAO, or in accordance with USFS approved flight following procedures including Automated Flight Following (AFF).

(i) Airtanker Base Rotation

Airtankers that are not Initial Attack (IA) qualified will not be dispatched to fires unless a Lead Plane or Aerial Supervision Module (ASM) is on scene upon the arrival of the non-IA qualified airtanker.

(j) Retardant Loading

(1) Airtankers shall normally not be fully loaded with retardant until dispatched to a fire.

Contractors may propose partial load configurations with supporting information in writing to their COR by the end of the day. This will include a risk based analysis for the Government to consider.

(2) Due to the varying weight of retardant the following stipulations must be adhered to:

(i) Airtankers may only carry tank loads less than or equal to their Interagency Airtanker Board approved max tank volume in gallons or contract retardant payload.

(ii) They may only carry tank loads less than or equal to the weight totaling max tank volume at 9 lbs per gallon of retardant. Neither limit may be exceeded.

(Loading ceases once the first limit is reached). For example: 3,000 gallon retardant tank load x 9lbs per gallon = 27,000 lbs. In this example, 3,000 gallons and 27,000 lbs are the limits that cannot be exceeded. Load totals shall include residual retardant.

(3) In the event of a cancelled or aborted mission while still on the ground, and if required for maintenance, retardant shall be off-loaded from the aircraft. If off-loading capabilities do not exist, then the load shall be jettisoned in a designated area and cost will be charged to the fire. Contractors shall provide company guidance in their proposal addressing when landing with a partial or full load is acceptable. This company guidance is for informational purposes only and will not be evaluated for agreement award purposes.

(4) In the event of a cancelled or aborted mission after takeoff, the aircrew shall make the final decision as to whether or not the aircraft will land loaded or if a portion or the entire load shall be jettisoned. At any time during an emergency or when adverse conditions make safe landing uncertain the pilot may drop all or part of the load as the pilot deems necessary. If the airtanker is able to land with a full load of retardant, but chooses to jettison the load without proper cause, the Contractor will be charged the cost of retardant. If a load is jettisoned the Contractor shall inform the ATBM and their COR of the jettison and the jettison location.

(5) The PIC is responsible for the weight and balance and shall have the final authority as to the quantity of retardant loaded onto the aircraft. If the PIC decides to use less than a full load of retardant and/or less than 2.5 hours of fuel, the PIC shall document each download and the causal factors in the Airtanker Daily Status report by end of day.

This information shall include but is not limited to: date and time of loading,…