2020 ASM Solicitation.pdf

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

This solicitation can be downloaded from the following Internet site: https://www.fbo.gov/

Offers Are Solicited For:

National Aerial Supervision Module (ASM) Aircraft Dry Lease

Solicitation No:

12024B19R9009

Issued Date:

January 28, 2020

IMPORTANT – NOTICE TO OFFEROR

- Offers will be due on February 20th, 2020 @ 1400 Mountain Daylight Time.

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

1. SF-1449, blocks 17a, 30a-30c: Complete, date, and sign.

2. Fill in the appropriate information requested in Sections B-2.

3. Provide your responses to Sections D (Exhibits 1 and 2), E.3, and E.9 (Representations and Certifications) of the solicitation.

4. All offerors shall be registered with the System for Award Management at https://www.sam.gov.

THE SOLICITATION PACKAGE SHALL BE RETURNED TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:

National Interagency Fire Center U.S. Forest Service, Contracting Attn: Solicitation No. AG-024B-S-17-9016 Owyhee Building - MS 1100 3833 S. Development Ave Boise, ID 83705-5354

No facsimile (FAX) or e-mail offers will be accepted.

Offerors may contact Robert Hoffman for information about this solicitation at robert.hoffman@usda.gov, 208-387-5681.

“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:robert.hoffman@usda.gov

Solicitation 12024B19R9009 U.S. Forest Service Aerial Supervision Module (ASM) Aircraft National Office

TABLE OF CONTENTS

i

SECTION A - SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS (SF-1449)

SECTION B - SCHEDULE OF ITEMS AND SPECIFICATIONS

B.1 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

B.2 LEASED AIRCRAFT

B.3 BACKGROUND AND SCOPE OF CONTRACT

B.4 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS AND AIRCRAFT SPECIFICATIONS

B.5 AVIONICS

B.6 AIRCRAFT CONDITION AND EQUIPMENT

B.7 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE

B.8 EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION

B.9 AIRCRAFT SECURITY

B.10 AIRCRAFT DOCUMENTATION

B.11 SUBSTITUTION OR REPLACEMENT AIRCRAFT

B.12 FUEL AND OTHER CONSUMABLES

B.13 ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

B.14 ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS

B.15 GOVERNMENT PILOT EXPERIENCE

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

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

C.2 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FAR 52.212-4) (DEVIATION 2017-1) (OCT

2018) C.3 52.212-5 - CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE

ORDERS - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEVIATION 2017-1) (JAN 2019)

C.4 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (AGAR 452.211-74) (FEB 1988)

C.5 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (FAR 52.217-8) (NOV 1999)

C.6 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (FAR 52.217 9) (MAR 2000)

C.7 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE (AGAR 452.246-70) (FEB 1988)

C.8 PRE USE INSPECTIONS

C.9 INSPECTION DURING USE

C.10 INSPECTION OF SUBSTITUTE EQUIPMENT

C.11 REINSPECTION EXPENSES

C.12 RETURN TO CONTRACT AVAILABILITY INSPECTIONS

C.13 AIRCRAFT DEFICIENCY DOCUMENTATION

C.14 DESIGNATED BASE AND GOVERNMENT PROVIDED FACILTIES

C.15 USE OF GOVERNMENT PROVIDED HANGAR

C.16 UNAVAILABILITY

C.17 PAYMENT PROCEDURES

C.18 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE

C.19 PUBLIC OFFICIALS NOT PERSONALLY LIABLE

C.20 TIME OF DELIVERY (FAR 52.211-8) (JUN 1997) (TAILORED)

C.21 POINT OF DELIVERY

C.22 COMMERCIAL FILMING AND VIDEOTAPING

C.23 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM (CPARS)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ii

C.24 ACRONYMS AND DEFINITIONS

SECTION D - EXHIBITS

D.1 LIST OF EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT 1 – CONTRACTOR AUTHORIZED SIGNATURES

EXHIBIT 2 – DETAILED AIRCRAFT INFORMATION

EXHIBIT 3 – PRE-AWARD INSPECTION OF FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT

EXHIBIT 4 – LEASED AIRCRAFT CONTRACT PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

EXHIBIT 5 – SUMMARY OF ACCIDENTS

EXHIBIT 6 – AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE LOG

EXHIBIT 7 – PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE

EXHIBIT 8 – WEIGHT AND BALANCE FORMS

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 GENERAL INFORMATION

E.2 SIZE STANDARD AND NAICS CODE INFORMATION

E.3 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS – COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FAR 52.212-1) (OCT 2018) (TAILORED)

E.4 EVALUATION – COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FAR 52.212-2) (OCT 2014

E.5 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS (AGAR 452.215-72) (1988)

E.6 INQUIRIES (AGAR 452.204-70) (FEB 1988)

E.9 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATION – COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FAR 52.212-3) (OCT 2018)

E.10 EVALUATION OF OPTIONS (FAR 52.217-5) (JUL 1990)

E.11 SERVICE OF PROTEST (FAR 52.233-2) (SEP 2006)

E.12 PRE-BID/PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE (AGAR 452.237-71) (FEB 1988)

E.13 POST-AWARD CONFERENCE (AGAR 452.215-73) (NOV 1996)

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

1. REQUISITION NUMBER

PAGE iii OF 116

2. CONTRACT NO.

3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

12024B19R9009

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

January 28, 2020

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME

ROBERT HOFFMAN

b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

Phone (208) 387-5681

8. OFFER DUE DATE/ LOCAL

TIME

February 20, 2020

14:00 MST

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: 100% FOR:

U.S. FOREST SERVICE, CONTRACTING

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER

OWYHEE BUILDING – MS 1100

3833 S DEVELOPMENT AVE

BOISE, ID 83705-5354

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(EDWOSB)

NAICS: 532411

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS

8(a)

SIZE STANDARD:

$32.5M

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA- TON

UNLESS BLOCK IS MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

See Block 9

17a. CONTRACTOR/ CODE FACILITY 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

OFFEROR CODE

ALBUQUERQUE SERVICE CENTER

INCIDENT BUSINESS – CONTRACTS

101B SUN AVENUE, NE

ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87109

TELEPHONE NO. NINE-DIGIT DUNS NO. .

17b CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN

OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

National Aerial Supervision Module (ASM) Dry Lease Aircraft.

(See Section B Schedule of Items, Supplies or Services & Prices or Cost)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN 1 . COPIES TO

ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR

OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND

CONDITIONS SPECIFIED HEREIN.

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. _________________ __ OFFER

DATED _______________ . YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH HEREIN, IS

ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNED (Type or print) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

SECTION B

SCHEDULE OF ITEMS AND SPECIFICATIONS

B.1 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

CLIN 0001 - Year 1

SUBCLIN

N-Number

Make/Model

Year

Series

Hourly Fuel

Consumption Gal.

Hourly

Flight Rate

300 Hours (Estimated for evaluation)

Daily

Availability Rate

Total Availability (Daily x 183

Days)

01A 01B 01C 01D 01E 01F 01G 01H 01I 01J

*01K - Opt *01L - Opt *01M - Opt *01N - Opt *01O - Opt

*Line items listed as “Opt” are Optional Line Items. The Government intends to exercise these items at award of the contract. Before exercising Option Years 1 and 2, the Government may choose not to award the CLINs for the Optional Line Items.

CLIN 0002 - Year 2

Rate

Total Availability (Daily x 365

Days)

02A

02B

02C

02D

02E

02F

02G

02H

02I

02J

*02K - Opt

*02L - Opt

*02M - Opt

*02N - Opt

*02O - Opt

*Line items listed as “Opt” are Optional Line Items. Before exercising Year 2, the Government may choose not to award the CLINs for the Optional Line Items.

CLIN 0003 - Year 3

Rate

Total Availability (Daily x 365

Days)

03A 03B 03C 03D 03E 03F 03G 03H 03I 03J

*03K - Opt *03L - Opt *03M - Opt *03N - Opt *03O - Opt

*Line items listed as “Opt” are Optional Line Items. Before exercising Year 3, the Government may choose not to award the CLINs for the Optional Line Items

CLIN 0004 - 6 Month Option to Extend Services

150 Hours

Rate

Total Availability (Daily x 183

Days)

04A 04B 04C 04D 04E 04F 04G 04H 04I 04J

*04K - Opt *04L - Opt *04M - Opt *4N - Opt

*04O - Opt

*Line items listed as “Opt” are Optional Line Items. Before exercising this extension, the Government may choose not to award the CLINs for the Optional Line Items

SCHEUDLE OF ITEMS AND SPECIFICATIONS

B.2 LEASED AIRCRAFT

(a) The Government plans to award a Firm Fixed Price type contract, with fixed-price rates for the dry lease of aircraft and flight hours used. The number of flight hours is dependent upon the amount of wild land fire and other related activities each year, which makes estimating the total overall contract quantity of flight hours difficult to predict. Many variables determine the severity and the length of fire seasons, including weather and local or regional long-term climate trends such as droughts or unusually wet periods. Two to four hundred (200-400) flight hours are estimated annually. However, this estimate IS NOT A

REPRESENTATION OR A GUARANTEE to an offeror or Contractor that the estimated flight hour quantities will be incurred, or those conditions affecting requirements will be stable or normal. The Government requires that all aircraft are of the same make/model/series as defined for each CLIN's performance requirements, for this acquisition. The Government may also consider alternate proposals for a mix of aircraft that are of the same make and different models.

(b) This acquisition is for 10 minimum and up to 15 multi-engine turbine aircraft to be rented on a dry lease basis, with contractor provided maintenance and insurance, available for the exclusive use by Government pilots for wild land fire missions and other administrative activities. The daily rate is to accommodate payment flexibility for inconsistent days in a month or in a year.

(c) All aircraft under the resultant contract shall be ready for delivery in accordance with the delivery dates specified in C.20 to the US Forest Service. Delivery will occur at the Contractor's base of operations or other mutually agreed upon location.

(d) One award of all Contract Line Item Numbers (CLIN's) will be made.

B.3 BACKGROUND AND SCOPE OF CONTRACT

(a) The United States Forest Service (USFS) is responsible for protecting National Forest lands from wild land fires and, by agreement with other agencies, assists in protecting other jurisdictions. The FS has accomplished this mission by sharing resources with other State and Government cooperators. Since the 1950s, the FS has placed increasing reliance on fixed and rotor wing aircraft to support fire suppression operations. Aircraft are used to drop fire retardant, deliver smokejumpers to remote areas, deliver helitack firefighters for passenger and cargo transportation, and to provide logistical and administrative support.

(b) To ensure the efficiency and safety of aviation operations, the FS deploys airborne Aerial Supervision

Module (ASM) platforms for in-flight supervision on fires and to conduct other administrative support activities. When the aircraft is performing the low level support role (Lead plane), the mission will consist of directing and guiding air tankers into fire areas and as necessary “leading” them during the actual retardant drop, at times operating below 500 feet above ground level (AGL) in steep mountainous terrain and turbulent conditions. The air attack mission (ATGS) consists of operating above 500’ (AGL) and coordinating tactical use of all aircraft working at the incident. The ASM role combines both the Leadplane and ATGS role into one. The administrative support mission includes carrying passengers and/or cargo.

(c) This solicitation and resultant commercial, Firm Fixed Price (FFP) type contract will be awarded for the dry lease of manufacturer built, dual-engine, turbine-powered aircraft. The Contractor shall make the aircraft available for year-round, exclusive use by Federal Government or contracted pilots for missions associated with supporting wild land fire suppression. Other types of work to a lesser degree will be resource management, passenger and cargo transportation, law enforcement, pilot training, pilot proficiency, and administrative activities.

(d) The ASM mission consists of directing and guiding large air tankers into a fire area, and as necessary, “leading” them during actual retardant drop. This means operating below 500 feet AGL in steep mountainous terrain in turbulent conditions. The aircraft may have other Government employees on board as an Air

Tactical Supervisor (AITS), an instructor, and/or trainee. Mission/Agency qualified Government and contract pilots will operate all of these aircraft. The Contractor shall provide the aircraft and complete maintenance of the aircraft. The Government shall provide all of the fuel. The contractor shall provide all oxygen, petroleum, oils, and lubricants (POL) for the aircraft. The Government will operate in accordance with the United States

Department of Agriculture Forest Service Manual FSM 5700 – Aviation Management, Forest Service

Handbook FSH 5709.16 and all applicable portions of 14 CFR Part 91.

B.4 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS AND AIRCRAFT SPECIFICATIONS

(a) The contractor shall provide specific written authorization from the aircraft manufacturer by make, model, series, and serial number for operation in the firefighting environment. The aircraft must have a manufacturer approved maintenance and inspection program that accounts for usage in the firefighting environment. The aircraft shall be FAA certificated as a Normal, Standard, or Utility category twin-engine airplane, be certificated for single pilot operation with a minimum flight deck capacity of two with dual controls plus a minimum passenger capacity of two.

(b) Aircraft shall conform to its approved type design, be maintained in accordance with the requirements of

14 CFR Part 135 notwithstanding the aviation regulations of the States in which the aircraft may operate except those requirements specifically waived by the CO.

(c) Aircraft Performance Requirements.

(1) Minimum Aircraft Performance Requirements

(i) Useful Load: 800 lb. or greater payload when fully equipped with 4 hours plus 30 minute reserve.

(ii) Speed: Cruise speed of 230 knots or greater True Airspeed (TAS).

(iii) Endurance: A flight endurance at maximum range power setting while maintaining four

(4) hours plus 30 minute reserve or longer@ 14,000ft MSL@ ISA +20 Degrees C.

(iv) Power Plant: The airplane must be in current production, twin-engine, turboprop, manufacturer built (no amateur or manufacturer built kit aircraft), new or used.

The airplane must have auto feather or similar system capable of automatically feathering the propeller of a failed engine. If equipped with retractable landing gear, a gear warning horn silence button must be mounted on the pilot's yoke or power levers to facilitate silencing the horn with the flaps up or in an approach position regardless of power lever position.

(v) Performance: The airplane shall have a minimum maneuvering speed (Va) of 150 Knots

Indicated Airspeed (KIAS) or greater. The aircraft must have a minimum controllable airspeed (Vmca) of 100 KIAS or lower, a single engine service ceiling of 12,500 feet or higher

(pressure altitude and standard temperature) and the ability to maintain a single engine rate of climb at 120 KIAS or slower. The airplane shall have a maximum gross take-off weight of no more than 19,000 pounds.

(vi) Environmental: Pressurized aircraft with environmental controls.

B.5 AVIONICS

(a) MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

(1) All avionics used to meet this specification shall comply with the requirements of paragraph b.

(AVIONICS SPECIFICATIONS) and paragraph c. (AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

STANDARDS).

(2) ASM aircraft shall be approved for day and night Visual Flight Rules (VFR), Instrument Flight Rules

(IFR), and flight into known icing conditions. Aircraft with identical avionics, autopilots and flight directors are preferred.

(3) The following are the minimum avionics which shall be installed. Additional avionics may be required. Please read this document thoroughly.

(i) Three VHF-AM Radios ((COM 1, COM 2, Com 3,)

(ii) Three VHF-FM Radios (FM 1, FM 2 & FM 3)

(iii) FM channeling switches on the PIC and SIC yoke for FM 1 and FM 2

(iv) An Intercom System (ICS) for the PIC, SIC/observer and Instructor (directly behind the

SIC/observer)

(v) Separate Audio Control systems for the PIC, SIC/observer and Instructor. Audio control systems shall not mute Receive and ICS audio during Transmit Operations.

(vi) Bose compatible aviation series powered headset jacks for the PIC and SIC/observer in addition to the JJ-033 and JJ-034 microphone and headset jacks.

(vii) Controls for the PIC, and SIC/observer to each independently adjust headphone volume for each communications receiver.

(viii) Individual cockpit speakers for the PIC and SIC/observer

(ix) Controls for the PIC and SIC/observer to each independently select and adjust speaker volume, independent of headset audio, for each communications receiver.

(x) One IFR certified Global Positioning Systems (GPS) with moving map

(xi) An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) certified to TSO-C126

(xii) An Automated Flight Following system (AFF)

(xiii) One Mode S Transponder

(xiv) One Altimeter and Automatic Pressure Altitude Reporting system

(xv) One Traffic Advisory System (TAS) with 1 mile display selection

(xvi) A Three Axis Autopilot (Roll, Pitch, and Yaw) with Flight Director

(xvii) One RADAR Altimeter

(xviii) One Multi-Function Display (MFD)

(xix) Equipment and lighting for night VFR operations in accordance with 14 CFR 135.159 and 14 CFR 135.161

(xx) Two VOR/Localizer systems

(xxi) One Glideslope system interfaced to the #1 Localizer

(xxii) One Three Light Marker Beacon system

(xxiii) One Weather RADAR system usable during all flight conditions (xxiv)

(xxiv) One Satellite Weather system with XM Aviator subscription or equivalent.

(xxv) One Class B Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS)

(xxvi) 3 Dual USB charging ports at the PIC, SIC/Observer, and Instructor positions.

(xxvii) Portable Electronic Device (PED) tolerance, by STC, in all phases of flight.

(xxviii) ADS-B IN and OUT

(b) AVIONICS SPECIFICATIONS

(1) Communications systems

(i) Transmitters shall not open squelch on, or interfere with, other AM or FM transceivers on the aircraft which are monitoring different frequencies. Transmit interlock functions shall not be used with communication transceivers.

(ii) VHF-AM Radios: VHF-AM radios shall be TSO approved aeronautical transceivers, permanently installed, and operate in the frequency band of 118.000 to 136.975 MHz with a minimum of 760 channels in no greater than 25 KHz increments. Transmitters shall have a minimum of 5 Watts carrier output power.

(iii) VHF-FM Radios: All aircraft approved for fire operations shall use P25 Digital VHF-FM transceivers meeting the specifications of FS/OAS A-19. FM radios used in all aircraft shall be agency approved. FS/OAS A-19 and a list of currently approved FM radios can be found on the following website: http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html. The following requirements shall be met.

(A) VHF-FM radios shall be aeronautical transceivers, permanently installed in a location that is convenient to the PIC and SIC/observer, and operate in the frequency band of 138 to 174 MHz. All usable frequencies shall be programmable in flight. Narrowband and digital operation shall be selectable by channel for both

MAIN and GUARD operation. Carrier output power shall be 6-10 Watts nominal.

(B) Transceivers shall have a GUARD capability constantly monitoring 168.625 MHz and have a tone of 110.9 on all GUARD transmissions. Simultaneous monitoring of

MAIN and GUARD is required. Scanning of GUARD is not acceptable. Aircraft not approved for Air Tactical operation only require one FM GUARD receiver.

(C) Transceivers shall have the capability of encoding CTCSS sub audible tones on all channels. A minimum of 32 tones meeting the current TIA/EIA-603A standards shall be selectable.

(D) Transceivers shall have the capability to display both receiver and transmitter frequencies. Activation indicators for transmit and receive shall be provided for both MAIN and GUARD operation.

(E) The radio shall use an external broadband antenna covering the frequency band of 138 to 174 MHz (Comant Cl-177-1 or equivalent).

(2) Audio Systems

(i) Intercom systems (ICS): ICS shall integrate with the aircraft audio control systems and mix with selected receiver audio. An ICS volume control and a "hot mic" capability shall be provided for the PIC and SIC/observer. Passenger volume adjustments shall not · affect the

PIC. Hot mic may be voice activated (VOX) or controlled via an activation switch. The PIC shall have an isolation capability.

(ii) Audio Control systems

(A) General

(1) Controls for transmitter selection and independent receiver selection of all required radios shall be provided for each required audio control system. Each system shall have the capability to simultaneously select and utilize a different transceiver (and PA if required). Side tone shall be provided for the user as well as for cross monitoring by all installed systems. Receiver audio shall be automatically selected when the corresponding transmitter is selected.

Receiver audio shall be provided to each position which requires ICS. Aft audio control systems are not required to provide NAV audio.

(2) All required passenger positions shall utilize the SIC/observer's audio control system unless an aft audio control system is installed. Drop cords may be used provided MS3112E10-6S type 6-pin connectors are installed adjacent to the required passenger headset jacks and wired for compatibility with an appropriate drop cord (Alpine Aerotech AAL280 series or equivalent).

(3) All associated audio controls shall be labeled as COM-1, COM-2, COM-3, FM-

1, FM-2, FM-3 etc... with the corresponding transceiver labeled to match. Audio shall be free of distortion, noise, or crosstalk. The system shall be designed for use with 600 ohm earphones and carbon equivalent, noise cancelling, boom type microphones. All required positions shall have JJ-033 and JJ-034 type microphone and headphone jacks separated by no more than 4 inches. Cockpit speakers shall be sufficiently amplified for use in flight.

(4) Crew positions shall have radio Push-To-Talk (PTT) switches on their respective flight controls. A PTT switch shall be provided to allow the

SIC/observer to transmit without touching the flight controls.

(B) Drop Cord Requirements

(1) Coil cord with sufficient length to provide unrestricted movement according to mission requirements (Minimum 3 feet retracted)

(2) 6-Pin MS3476L10-6P type connector on the coil cord

(3) JJ-033 and JJ-034 type headset jacks at the housing

(4) Large clip

(5) Volume control

(6) ICS switch with momentary and lock positions

(7) Radio PTT switch (only for positions which require radio transmit)

(C) Aft Audio Control systems

(1) The audio controller shall be installed in a location that provides the operator directly behind the SIC/observer unobstructed access to the controls while seated. Aft passengers shall utilize this audio control system. If multiple aft audio controllers are installed, passengers shall utilize the most logical system

(2) The audio controller shall be installed in a location that provides the operator directly behind the SIC/observer unobstructed access to the controls while seated. Aft passengers shall utilize the aft audio control system(s).

(D) Required Audio Control systems

(1) Two separate audio control systems for the PIC and SIC/observer. These shall be identical individual units.

(2) An aft audio control system for the instructor

(3) Drop cords for the SIC/observer and instructor

(3) Navigation systems

(i) Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

(A) Aeronautical GPS: Each required GPS shall be TSO approved, permanently installed where both the PIC and SIC/observer can clearly view the display, use an approved external aircraft antenna, and be powered by the aircraft electrical system. The GPS shall utilize the WGS-84 datum, reference coordinates in the DM

(degrees/minutes/decimal minutes) format and have the ability to manually enter waypoints in flight. The GPS navigation database shall be updated annually covering the geographic areas where the aircraft will operate.

(B) GPS with Moving Map: The GPS providing data to the moving map shall meet all of the above GPS requirements. The moving map's display shall be 3 inches wide,

1.5 inches high, and show the aircraft's present position relative to user selected waypoints and geographical features. The map may be integrated with the GPS.

(4) Surveillance systems

(i) Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELT): Emergency locator transmitters shall be automatic-fixed, installed in a conspicuous or marked location, and meet the requirements detailed in 14 CFR 91.207 (excluding section f). ELT antennas shall be mounted externally to the aircraft unless installed in a location approved by the aircraft manufacturer. TSO C126 or newer ELTs are required. TSO C126 and newer ELTs require documentation of current registration from the national civil aviation authority for which the aircraft is registered.

(ii) Automated Flight Following systems (AFF): Automated flight following systems shall be compatible with the government's tracking program (AFF.gov), utilize satellite communications, and use aircraft power via a dedicated circuit breaker. AFF shall be functional in all phases of flight and in all geographic areas where the aircraft will operate.

The following additional requirements shall be met.

(A) A subscription service shall be maintained through the equipment provider allowing position reporting via the Government AFF Program. The reporting interval shall be every two minutes while in flight.

(B) AFF equipment shall be registered with AFF.gov providing all requested information. Changes to equipment and registration information shall be reported to AFF.gov ensuring the program is current prior to aircraft use. For assistance, the

Fire Applications Help Desk (FAHD) may be reached at (866) 224-7677 or (360) 326-

6002.

(C) An AFF operational test shall be performed prior to the annual compliance inspection. This test shall ensure that the system meets all requirements and is displayed in the AFF viewer with the correct information. A user name and password are required. Registration and additional information are available at https://www.aff.gov/.

(D) If AFF becomes unreliable the aircraft may, at the discretion of the Government, remain available for service utilizing radio/voice systems for flight following. The system shall be returned to full operational capability within 5 calendar days after the system is discovered to be unreliable.

(E) This clause incorporates the Specific Section Supplement available at https://www.aff.gov/contractspecs.asp as if it was presented as full text herein.

(F) For questions about current compatibility requirements contact the AFF

Program Manager listed under contacts at https://www.aff.gov.

(iii) Transponders: Transponder systems shall meet the requirements of 14 CFR 91.215(a).

ASM aircraft shall have a "Mode S" transponder installed. Transponder systems shall be tested and inspected every 24 calendar months as specified by 14 CFR 91.413.

(iv) Altimeter and Automatic Pressure Altitude Reporting systems: Altimeter, static pressure, and automatic pressure altitude reporting systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the IFR requirements of 14 CFR Part 91. These systems shall be tested and inspected every 24 calendar months as specified by 14 CFR 91.411.

(v) Traffic Advisory Systems (TAS): Traffic advisory systems shall be TSO approved, use active interrogation, graphically display traffic relative to the aircraft's horizontal position, and provide alert audio to the PIC and SIC/observer audio control systems. The display shall be within view of the PIC and SIC/observer. The system must provide coverage in all directions above and below the aircraft with a maximum range of at least 10 nautical miles. The display must allow range selection of 1 mile or less, unless the 1 mile display area has a diameter of

2.75 inches or larger.

(vi) Automatic Dependent Surveillance - Broadcast (ADS-B)

(A) ADS-B OUT systems must be approved to TSO C154c or TSO- C166b. Aircraft operating outside of the United States must be equipped with systems approved to

TSO-C166b.

(B) ADS-B IN systems must be TSO approved, use diversity antennas on top and bottom of the aircraft, receive both UAT and 1090ES, and be interfaced to a multifunction display (MFD) capable of displaying TIS-B traffic and FIS-B weather.

(5) General Systems

(i) Autopilots

(A) Autopilots shall be capable of operating the aircraft controls to maintain flight and maneuver it about the three axes.

(B) Autopilots in ASM aircraft shall be certified for IFR approach procedures, couple to the navigation systems for vertical and horizontal operation, interface to the PICs https://www.aff.gov/ https://www.aff.gov/ flight director and HSI, and provide altitude preselect, automatic trim, and PIC electric trim controls.

(ii) RADAR Altimeters: RADAR altimeters shall be approved, operate from zero to a minimum of 2000 feet AGL and provide the operator an adjustable cursor which enables an altitude low (decision height) annunciation. The altitude low annunciation shall be clearly identified, and in the PIC's primary field of view.

(iii) Multi-Function Displays (MFD): MFDs shall be installed within view of the PIC and display GPS navigation information on a color moving map. TAS and weather datalink information shall be displayed on the MFD when these systems are required.

(iv) Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR): Cockpit voice recorders shall meet all applicable regulations for standard and transport category aircraft.

(v) Dual USB Charging Ports: USB charging ports must be TSO approved, capable of providing at least 2 amps of power to each port simultaneously with an output voltage of 5

VDC and installed in a location convenient to the specified users.

(vi) VHF-FM Programming Ports: DB-9 type D-subminiature connectors shall be installed in a location convenient to the SIC/observer. These shall be wired for RS232 serial communication between all required VHF-FM radios and a laptop computer. Individual connectors or an FM select switch may be used. Pin 2 shall be data transmitted from the FM.

Pin 3 shall be data received by the FM. Pin 5 shall be signal ground. Compatible radio front panel connectors may be used to meet this requirement if serial adapter cables are provided with the aircraft. For example: TDFM 136A radios s/n FDA1200 and higher.

(vii) Portable Electronic Device (PED) Tolerance

(A) The aircraft must be certified as tolerant to portable electronic devices (PEDs), including transmitting PEDs, in accordance with RTCA/DO-307 for all phases of flight. This must be accomplished via an STC equivalent to Liberty Partners

STC11071SC with configuration LP-S001-B03 and include approval for wireless intercom adapters. An appropriate supplement must be incorporated into the aircraft flight manual.

(B) The contractor must have documented procedures and training to clearly address:

(1) PEDs approved for use on board the aircraft

(2) Situations when approved PEDs can and cannot be used

(3) How and when PEDs must be secured or stowed

(4) PED modes of operation that can and cannot be used

(5) How and when to inform passengers of the contractor’s PED policies and procedures

(6) How to manage scenarios such as suspected or confirmed electromagnetic interference, PED unit or battery smoke or fire, or other scenarios

(c) AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS

(1) Strict adherence to the guidelines in FAA AC 43.13-1B Chapter 11 "Aircraft Electrical Systems" and Chapter 12 "Aircraft Avionics Systems" as well as FAA AC 43.13-2B Chapter 1 "Structural Data", Chapter 2 "Communication, Navigation and Emergency Locator Transmitter System Installations" and Chapter 3 "Antenna Installation" is required.

(2) All antennas shall be FAA approved, have a Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) less than 3.0 to

1 and be properly matched and polarized to their associated avionics system.

(3) Labeling and marking of all avionics controls and equipment shall be understandable, legible, and permanent. Electronic label marking is acceptable.

(4) Avionics installations shall not interfere with passenger safety, space or comfort. Avionics equipment shall not be mounted under seats designed for energy attenuation. In all instances, the designated areas for collapse shall be protected.

(5) All avionics equipment shall be included on the aircraft's equipment list by model, nomenclature, and location.

(6) Avionics systems shall meet the performance specifications of FS/OAS A-24 Avionics Operational

Test Standards. For a copy of all FS/OAS documents visit http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html.

B.6 AIRCRAFT CONDITION AND EQUIPMENT

(a) The aircraft shall be in airworthy condition throughout the performance period. All equipment shall be installed and operable or be deferrable by an FAA approved Minimum Equipment List (MEL).

However, all items required by this contract may not be placed on an MEL as non-operational unless approved by a government Aviation Safety Inspector or the CO. The following equipment, when inoperative, cannot be placed on an MEL with the aircraft continuing to be utilized under contract.

Once an item is placed on an MEL then the vendor is required to correct the discrepancy within identified approved MEL timeframes.

(1) Emergency Locator Transmitter

(2) VHF-AM Radio (for contract availability at least three must be operational)

(3) VHF-FM Radio (for contract availability three must be operational)

(4) Transponder (for contract availability at least one must be operational)

(5) Static pressure, altimeter, and automatic altitude reporting system ( at least one must be operational and connected to an operational transponder)

(b) All aircraft furnished under this contract shall be operable, free of damage, and in good working order. Aircraft systems and components shall be free of leaks, except within limitations specified by the manufacturer.

(c) The aircraft interior shall be clean and neat. There shall be no un-repaired tears, rips, cracks, or other damage to the interior. All interior materials shall meet FM standards.

(d) The aircraft exterior finish, including the paint, shall be clean, neat, and in good condition (i.e., no severe fading, or large areas of flaking or missing paint etc.) Military or other low visibility paint schemes are unacceptable. Any corrosion shall be within manufacturer or FM acceptable limits.

Aircraft shall be marked with either paint or vinyl stick-on material with high visibility orange which contrasts the primary paint color scheme. The markings/paint shall be applied to areas outlined below:

(1) The outboard tips on the upper and lower surface of the wings.

(2) The outboard tips on the upper and lower horizontal stabilizer surfaces.

(e) All windows and windshields shall be clean and free of scratches, cracks, crazing, distortion, or repairs, which hinder visibility. All aircraft shall be equipped with windows that are not polarized and if window covers are used they must be STC approved and clear.

(f) Fire extinguishers, as required by 14 CFR 135.155, shall be hand-held bottle(s), with a minimum of

1.5 lbs. capacity and 2-B:C rating. Fire Extinguishers shall be maintained in accordance with current

NFPA 10 standards and mounted with a quick release attachment accessible to the flight crew while seated.

(g) Cargo restraint. The contractor shall furnish tie downs, net(s), or cargo straps meeting requirements of 14 CFR to restrain cargo while in flight.

(h) Aircraft shall have a wing and tail strobe light system with an independent activating switch.

(i) The aircraft shall be equipped with a pulse type light system to enhance recognition of the aircraft. The system may utilize existing landing lights if they are visible with the landing gear retracted. A pulselite model 1220/2410-2 or equal will meet this requirement

(j) Cabin air conditioning vents, bleed air heater and window defogger shall be controllable by the pilot.

(k) Aircraft will have an oxygen system capable of supplying the pilot, copilot and all available passenger stations with aviator breathing oxygen for a minimum of .8 hours for all positions minimum. The oxygen system will be a continuous flow system in accordance with 14 CFR

135.157.

(l) First Aid Kit (Aeronautical): The contents shall include the following minimum items:

Item Description Passenger

Seats (0-9).

Passenger

Seats (10 - 15)

Adhesive bandage strips (3 inches long) 8 16 Antiseptic or alcohol wipes (packets) 10 20

Bandage compresses , (4-inch) 2 4

Triangular bandage compresses, 40 inch (sling) 2 4 Roller bandage, 4 inch x 5 yards (gauze) 2 4

Adhesive tape, 1 inch x 5 yards (standard roll) 1 2

Bandage scissors 1 1

Body Fluids Barrier Kit: 1 1

• 2-pair of latex loves

• 1-face shield

• 1-mouth-to-mouth barrier

• 1-protective gown

• 2-antiseptic towelettes

• 1-biohazard disposal bag

Note: Splints are recommended if space permits.

(m) Survival Kit (Aeronautical) (LOWER 48): The contents shall include the following minimum items:

Item Item

Knife Signal Mirror

Non-Marine Aerial Flares(6-each) Matches (2-small boxes in waterproof containers)

Food (2-days@ a minimum 1,000 calories per day, emergency rations per occupant)

Water (1-quart per occupant) (not required when operating over areas with adequate drinking water)

Space Blanket (1-per occupant) Candles

Collapsible Water Bag Whistle

Magnesium Fire Starter Nylon Rope or Parachute Cord (SO-feet) Water Purification Tablets

Suggested Survival Kit Items Dependent Upon Terrain and Climate:

Item Item

Container w/carrying Handle or Straps

Individual First Aid Kit

Large Plastic Bags Signal Panels

Flashlight with Spare Batteries Hand Saw or Wire Saw

Collapsible Shovel Sleeping Bag (1-per two occupants) Survival Manual (Arctic/Desert) Snowshoes

Insect Repellant Axe or Hatchet

Insect Head net (1-per occupant) Gill Net/Assorted Fishing Tackle

Personal ELT Sunscreen

Note: A hand-held 760 channel VHF transceiver radio is recommended. It should be attached, or immediately accessible, to a crewmember rather than placed in the aircraft survival kit.

(n) Smoke Generator. Aircraft shall be equipped with an FAA approved smoke generating system, actuated from the controls of the left seat pilot position.

(o) Hobbs meter (flight hour meter) that measures actual flight time from take-off to landing in hours and tenths.

(p) Equipment for conducting aircraft Operational Load Monitoring (OLM).

(1) Criteria for the OLM system are provided in Table 1 below.

(2) Contractor shall instrument aircraft with a government reviewed and approved OLM system.

This system must provide to the government required and specified parameters in Table 1 below. Aircraft being offered that do not have a government approved OLM system installed shall install an OLM system that outputs data in the ".cdf' file format.

(3) The recorded data shall be submitted to the Forest Service Airworthiness Branch every 14 days while on contract. The recorded OLM data shall be in a “.sie or ".cdf' file format. All values in ".sie" and ".cdf' files shall be in engineering units as listed in Table 1. The SIE and CDF files shall include column header descriptions as listed in Table 1, Channel Description (including engineering units for the values in each column). Acceleration data shall be described as either incremental or total. There shall be only one flight per recorded file.

(4) The file naming convention for each flight file shall be; "Aircraft N Number''_"date (YYYYMMDD)"_timestamp in GMT

(a) E.g. N34VJ_20140228_1456

(5) If the OLMS system is inoperable or malfunctioning the aircraft operator shall have the problem corrected in 10 business days. If the problem is not corrected, the aircraft will be made unavailable until the OLMS is operating and properly recording data.

(6) The OLM system shall be installed and approved by one of the three following methods:

(i) STC

(ii) Approved for installation by an FAA From 8110-3 with all DER supporting engineering substantiation documentation attached.

(iii) Field Approved on an FAA form 337 for installation with supporting FAA Form 8110- 3 and all DER supporting engineering substantiation documentation.

(7) The OLM system shall have an annual calibration prior to annual pre use inspection.

(i) Aircraft shall be flown by the contractor in a typical mission profile.

(ii) Data shall be collected for this flight.

(iii) The contractor shall review the data to ensure all channels are recording data and that data is correct in accordance with this contract and the contractors OLM program.

(iv) The contractor shall notify the USFS Airworthiness Branch of the specific flight date and time for the calibration flight. The government will review this data to ensure it meets requirements.

(8) OLM System and Program:

(i) Criteria: To properly monitor the ASM usage of a specific model aircraft, a complete instrumentation package and recording device are required. The following section details the minimum required parameters and instrumentation to be recorded at a minimum sample rate of 8Hz.

Accelerations shall be recorded as close to the aircraft Center of Gravity as practicable or correction algorithms may need to be validated and applied.

Systems shall have functional and calibration flights recorded annually.

(ii) Continuous Monitoring OLM Requirements: These are minimum system requirements for all other aircraft of a particular model in ASM operation for continuous monitoring while in ASM service. The instrumentation and equipment utilized must include all mechanical components required to measure the flight parameters listed. The system shall have detailed installation instructions, drawings and instructions for continued airworthiness (ICAs). The ICAs will also include an installation validation plan for system and scheduled calibration check due annually. The following are minimum required parameters to be recorded at 8 Hz:

Table 1 Continuous Monitoring OLM Minimum Channel List

Channel Description Number of

Channels

Units Sample Rate (Hz)

Record Rate (Hz)

1. Altitude (GPS) 1 Feet 4 Hz 8 Hz

2. Groundspeed (GPS) 1 Knots 4 Hz 8 Hz

3. Vertical Speed (GPS) 1 Feet per Minute 4 Hz 8 Hz

4. Heading (GPS) 1 Degrees 4 Hz 8 Hz

5. Date and Time in GMT (GPS) 1 yyyy/mm/dd GMT 4 Hz 8 Hz

6. Latitude (GPS) 1 Degrees 4 Hz 8 Hz

7. Longitude (GPS) 1 Degrees 4 Hz 8 Hz

8. Engine Start (one engine oil pressure)

1 Discrete 8 Hz 8 Hz

9. Pitot Pressure 1 Inches Hg 8 Hz 8 Hz

10. Static Pressure 1 Inches Hg 8 Hz 8 Hz

11. Outside Air Temperature 1 Degrees C 8 Hz 8 Hz

12. Altitude (Static Pressure) 1 Feet 8 Hz 8 Hz

13. Indicated Airspeed (must be derived from Pitot / Static differential)

1 Knots 8 Hz 8 Hz

14. Equivalent Airspeed 1 Knots 8 Hz 8 Hz

15. True Airspeed 1 Knots 8 Hz 8 Hz

16. Weight On Wheels 1 Discrete 8 Hz 8 Hz

17. Flap Position 1 Degrees 8 Hz 8 Hz

18. Speed Brake / Spoiler Position (If equipped)

1 Degrees 8 Hz 8 Hz

19. Normal Acceleration (Nz) 1 G Force 8 Hz 8 Hz

20. Longitudinal Acceleration (Nx) 1 G Force 8 Hz 8 Hz

21. Lateral Acceleration (Nv) 1 G Force 8 Hz 8 Hz

22. Pitch 1 Degrees 8 Hz 8 Hz

23. Pitch Rate 1 Degrees per Sec. 8 Hz 8 Hz

24. Roll 1 Degrees 8 Hz 8 Hz

25. Roll Rate 1 Degrees per Sec. 8 Hz 8 Hz

26. Yaw Rate 1 Degrees per Sec. 8 Hz 8 Hz

27. Vertical Accuracy (VDOP) 1 8 Hz 8 Hz

28. Horizontal Accuracy (HOOP) 1 8 Hz 8 Hz

29. Fuel Quantity (May be manually collected on Supplemental Data Sheet)

1 Lbs. 8 Hz 8 Hz

30. Aircraft Gross Weight ( May be manually collected on Supplemental Data Sheet)

1 Lbs. 8 Hz 8 Hz

(iii) Minimum requirements for a Continuous Monitoring OLM system:

(A) Data Acquisition and Transmittal Requirements: The flight data recorder utilized for the data acquisition must be capable of recording all of the flight parameters. Recorders shall be capable of recording flight data for up to 100 flight hours without replacing the data capture media. Recorded data shall be compatible with Forest Service Data Library software solution.

(B) The Contractor's OLM program shall:

(1) Identify the OLM system installation, calibration process, and frequency of recalibration;

(2) OLM system shall be properly installed using OEM recommended installation procedures.

(3) Identify the location of the recording device of the OLM system. The system does not need to be crash survivable; however the Contractor shall consider the most crash survivable location within the aircraft with regard to fire and damage from a crash for the recording unit.

(4) Identify the parts or measured parameters that are required to be operational for each flight.

(5) Contain procedures to assure the OLM system is fully functional for each flight, including all measured parameters;

(6) Identify the specific parameters selected for recording with rationale for their selection.

(7) Identify the location, purpose and use of the parameters selected.

Parameters identified as being required for developing revised Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA's) shall be so identified and be given greater description as to their use;

(8) Provided an explanation of the analysis of the data obtained from the aircraft OLM system;

(9) Contain procedures for the integration of the analyzed aircraft operational load data into the Contractor's inspection program;

(10) Define and provide a detailed explanation of the exceedance for each of the recorded parameters;

(11) Thoroughly explain the Contractor's definition of a structural exceedance. Structural exceedances may be single or multiple parameter exceedances;

(12) Contain procedures to take (i.e. inspect, repair, or other maintenance action) when a structural exceedance occurs;

(13) Contain procedures for notification (timeliness and method) to the

Government for all defined exceedances and the planned actions and timeline to complete them;

(14) Contain procedures for retrieval of the aircraft OLM data, analysis of the data, process for defining/deciding on a maintenance action, and implementation of the maintenance action;

(15) Contain procedures for an annual calibration of the system to ensure all channels are recording correctly. The procedure shall contain a representative flight profile to be flown for the calibration flight.

(iv) Reference I Publications: The following references/publications may be used to guide the Contractor in establishing an inspection program and OLM system.

(A) NTSB Safety Recommendations A-04-29, 30 and 31, 23 April 2004

(B) FAA Structural Management and Inspection Criteria for use on Large

Airtankers for USDA & DOI, 28 May 2004.

(C) Blue Ribbon Panel: Federal Aerial Firefighting: Assessing Safety and

Effectiveness, December 2002

(D) 14 CFR, Code of Federal Regulations Aeronautics and Space

(E) DOT/FAA/AR-05-035. Consolidation and Analysis of Loading Data in

Firefighting Operations, October 2005

(F) DOT/FAA/AR-11/7, Usage and Maneuver Loads Monitoring of Heavy Air

Tankers, March 2011

(G) Mil-A-8866, Military Specification, Airplane Strength and Rigidity, Reliability

Requirements, Repeated Loads and Fatigue, 18 May 1960.

(H) AC 91- 82A - Fatigue Management Programs for In-Service Issues, 2011

(I) AC 25.571-1D, Damage Tolerance and Fatigue Evaluation of Structure, 2011

(J) For information on CDF file format please view http://cdf.gsfc.nasa.gov/html/FAQ.html

(q) Each aircraft shall carry current copies of the following:

(1) Contract and all modifications

(2) DOT exemption 9198 and interagency aviation transport of hazardous materials handbook/guide (NFES 1068) if required.

(r) Safety Belts. The aircraft furnished under this contract shall have safety belts for all occupants and shoulder harnesses for front seat occupants meeting requirements of 14 CFR. The shoulder strap and lap belt shall fasten with a metal to metal single point quick release mechanism. Military style Harnesses are acceptable.

(s) Lap belt and shoulder harness condition; the following are NOT acceptable:

(1) Webbing. Webbing that is frayed five (5) percent or more, torn webbing, crushed webbing, swelled webbing that results in twice the thickness of original web, or if difficult to operate through hardware, creased webbing (no structural damage allowed), and sun deterioration if it results in severe fading, brittleness, discoloration, and stiffness.

(2) Hardware. Buckle or other hardware is inoperable, nylon bushing at shoulder harness-to-lap belt connection missing or damaged, fabricated bushings or tie wraps used as bushings, rust/corrosion if not minor in nature, wear beyond normal use.

(3) Stitches. Broken or missing stitches, severe fading or discoloring, inconsistent stitch pattern.

(4) Technical Standard Order (TSO) Tags (see 14 CFR 21.607). Missing or illegible tags are unacceptable unless inspection can confirm the suitability of installed equipment.

(5) Age. Belts/fabric over ten (10) years from date of manufacture require close inspection because of the…