RFIs and answers.docx
DOCX document 28 KB Posted
- Solicitation number
- 12639525Q0114
About this file
This Request for Information (RFI) document contains detailed questions and answers regarding logistics, operations, and support for a USDA-APHIS aerial fruit fly release program in Tijuana, Mexico. The RFI covers critical operational details including airport facilities, maintenance requirements, fueling procedures, and flight operations. Key insights include: no dedicated USDA hangar is available at Tijuana International Airport, contractors must arrange their own hangar and ramp space; fuel services are handled per-use through ASA Combustibles; flight dispersals typically occur between 9am-3pm; and USDA will provide GPS routes and insect loading. The document clarifies that contractors will need to coordinate with local civil aeronautics authorities, potentially bring their own mechanics for repairs, and be prepared to conduct weekly service operations once the contract is awarded. Additional nuanced details cover mechanic availability, early morning fuel service accessibility, and potential certification processes for international aerial operations.
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Other files
| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| 12639525Q0114-0003.pdf | ||
| 12639525Q0114-0002.pdf | ||
| 12639525Q0114-0001.pdf | ||
| Attachment 1_ Insect Release Machine Specs.pdf | ||
| 12639525Q0114.pdf |
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Text version
Aircraft Logistics & Site Support
1. Is there a dedicated hangar at Tijuana International Airport (MMTJ) currently used for this operation, or would I need to arrange my own? No, USDA does not have a dedicated hangar, the contractor is responsible to arrange, with the airport administration/authorities, the space required.
1. Does USDA have an on-site office or staging area at the airport? No, the USDA office is outside the airport.
1. Is there a designated ramp space or tie-down area for the release aircraft? The contractor should be responsible for the administrative process to secure this place. This is not designated to USDA.
1. Can a contractor bring in their own mechanic to work on-site if hangar space is secured? Depending on the issues, the airport has a pool of mechanics to work with, if there’s any mayor repair, the contractor can bring their own.
Maintenance & Fueling
1. Are there any recommended aircraft maintenance shops or A&P mechanics in the area familiar with GA aircraft? The airport has a pool of mechanics that can provide those services.
1. Who handles aircraft fueling at MMTJ, and is AVGAS (or Jet A) consistently available? The fueling process is handled by a contractor who provides these services for the airport, the company is ASA Combustibles and this is consistently available, but requires scheduling with the company.
1. Do contractors set up fuel accounts, or is fueling handled per-use? The fuel is handled per-use.
1. Is early-morning fuel service available for dispersal flights? Yes, the fuel service can be provided early in the morning.
Coordination & Authorities
1. Is there a contact at the airport authority or FBO you recommend I coordinate with regarding hangar, access, and logistics? Yes, this coordination can be done through the civil aeronautics’ authorities at the airport, we can make this contact since they’re very familiar with the work of USDA in the area.
1. Does USDA coordinate directly with Mexican authorities (DGAC, SENASICA, etc.) on behalf of the contractor, or is that entirely up to us? USDA can coordinate with local authorities.
Timeline & Certification
1. If I were to require up to 3 months for aircraft acquisition, modification, and permitting, would that delay disqualify me from the contract? Not sure on this, but the program needs to have the services provided on a weekly basis once the contract is awarded.
1. Given that obtaining an FAA Part 137 certificate may be time-intensive, is there any waiver or alternative approval USDA has used for previous contractors in this type of international operation? Will check on this one
Flight & Dispersal Operations
1. What time of day are release flights typically flown? On a typical day, 9am through 3pm
1. Does USDA handle insect loading and provide pre-programmed GPS routes, or is route mapping/logistics expected from the contractor? Yes, we provide the GPS routes and the insect loading.
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