B08_SOL_140D0426Q0654_EU_H_T3_EVER-Resource_FINAL.pdf

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (WOSB)

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE 1 OF 92

2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3.AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE

DATE

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/

9. ISSUED BY

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

CODE

15. DELIVER TO 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE17a. CONTRACTOR/

OFFEROR

CODE

FACILITY

CODE

CODE

TELEPHONE NUMBER

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

REQUEST

FOR QUOTE

(RFQ)

INVITATION

FOR BID

(IFB)

REQUEST

FOR

PROPOSAL

(RFP)

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Government Use Only)

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REFERENCE

. 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

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print) 30c. DATE SIGNED

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

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

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR

NORTH AMERICAN

INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION

STANDARD (NAICS):

SIZE STANDARD:

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

THE DEFENSE PRIORITIES

AND ALLOCATIONS

SYSTEM - DPAS (15 CFR 700)

SET ASIDE: % FOR:

11. DELIVERY FOR FREE ON

BOARD (FOB) DESTINATION

UNLESS BLOCK IS MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE (FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION) FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4.

FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED.

8(A)

ECONOMICALLY

DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (EDWOSB)

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

(SDVOSB)

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SMALL BUSINESS

NOTE: OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, AND 30.

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

DATED.

OFFER

ADDENDA

ADDENDA

140D0426Q0654

See Schedule See Schedule

Interior Business Center, AQD Acquisition Services Directorate 381 Elden Street Suite 2000A Herndon VA 20170

LOCAL TIME

11/23/2026 1000 PS Melanie Johnson

0000000000

D28 100.00

D28

Melanie Johnson

481211

1,500

10/23/2026

0011281544

Exclusive Use Resource Helicopter Flight Services, South Florida Parks and Preserves

Continued...

STOCK RECORD (S/R)

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021) BACK

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE

41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER 41c. DATE

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42c. DATE RECEIVED (MM/DD/YYYY) 42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS

40. PAID BY

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE 32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32g. EMAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

33. SHIP NUMBER 34. VOUCHER NUMBER 35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

PARTIAL FINAL

37. CHECK NUMBER

38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER 39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER

36. PAYMENT

COMPLETE PARTIAL FINAL

ACCEPTED,

00010

Period of Performance: 05/01/2027 to

04/30/2032

Exclusive Use Resource Helicopter Flight

Services, South Florida Parks and Preserves

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 3 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

Contents

SECTION A - REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

A1. ITEM REQUIREMENT

A2. Schedule Of Services and Prices A3. Additional Pay Items (Time & Materials IAW RFO 52.212-4 Alt I (DEVIATION)(Mar 2026)

SECTION B TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

B1 Scope of Contract B2 Certifications B3 Order of Precedence (Specifications) B4 Contracts

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

B5 Condition of Equipment B6 Aircraft Equipment Requirements B7 Avionics Requirements B8 Fuel Servicing Vehicle Equipment Requirements (Required for Lower 48 States Operations Only)

PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

B9 Pilot Requirements and Authority B10 Pilot Qualifications B11 Personnel Duty Limitations B12 Flight Crewmembers’ Duty and Flight Limitations B13 Mechanic Requirement B14 Mechanic Qualifications B15 Mechanic Duty Limitations B16 Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver Requirement and Qualifications (Required for Lower 48 States Operations Only) ... 28 B17 Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver Duty Limitations B18 Relief Crew Requirement

OPERATIONS

B19 Pilot Authority and Responsibility B20 Flight Operations B21 Security of Aircraft and Equipment B22 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Flight Operations B23 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Ground Operations B24 Transportation of Hazardous Materials B25 Fuel and Servicing Requirements

AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

B26 General - Maintenance B27 Airworthiness Directives (AD’s) and Manufacturer’s Mandatory Service Bulletins (MMSB’s) B28 Manuals/Records B29 Maintenance B30 Maintenance Test Flight B31 Time Between Overhaul (TBO) and Life-Limited Parts B32 Weight and Balance B33 Helicopter Turbine Engine Power Check

SECTION C – CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 4 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654

Contract Clauses Clauses Incorporated by Reference

ADDENDA TO CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

RFO 52.212-4(b) Inspection/Acceptance (DEVIATION)(Mar 2026) Equipment Personnel List of Special Use Flight Activities:

Substitute Personnel, Aircraft, or Equipment Reinspection Expenses RFO 52.212-4(k) Taxes (DEVIATION)(Mar 2026)

GENERAL CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

C1 Invoices - Aircraft Use Reports (AUR) C2 Electronic Invoicing and Payment Requirements – Invoice Processing Platform (IPP) (Feb 2021) C3 Contractor Personnel Security Requirements C4 Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) (Dec 2015) C5 Post-Award Conference / Prework Meeting

CONTRACT PERIOD AND RENEWAL

C6 Contract Period

C7 RESERVED

C8 RESERVED

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

C9 Government Representatives & Points of Contact (POCs) C10 Personnel Conduct C11 Safety C12 Mishaps C13 Economic Price Adjustment for Fuel

AVAILABILITY REQUIREMENTS

C14 Availability C15 Schedule of Operations and Reaction Time C16 Maintenance During Availability Period C17 Unavailability and Damages

MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT

C18 Daily Availability C19 Flight Time C20 Mobilization / Demobilization C21 Estimated Additional Flight Hours C22 Additional Pay Items (from Schedule of Items) C23 On Call Secondary Aircraft C24 Government Miscellaneous Charges

Section C EXHIBITS Exhibit 1 Standard Interagency Load Calculations Method and Form Exhibit 2 Helicopter Fuel Consumption and Weight Reduction Chart Exhibit 3 Unacceptable Aircraft Lap Belt and Shoulder Harness Conditions Exhibit 4 Acceptable paint schemes Exhibit 5 First Aid and Survival Kits Exhibit 6 Drawing FS/OAS A-15

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 5 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654

Exhibit 7 Drawing FS/OAS A-16 Exhibit 8 Drawing FS/OAS A-17 Exhibit 9 Helicopter Synthetic Longline Requirements Exhibit 10 Helicopter Like Makes and Model Group Plus Series For Exclusive Use Contracts Exhibit 11 Safety Management System (SMS), Flight Time, ACCIDENT HISTORY, AND FAA Violation Questionnaire (Pre-Award Ver. 6.3 – 2026) Exhibit 12 Transportation Worksheet Exhibit 13 Applicable Wage Determination

SECTION D - INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

D1 General Information D2 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code and Small Business Size Standard D3 Offers D4 Offer Contents

Volume I Offer Volume II Technical Capability Volume III Organizational Safety Volume IV Past Performance

D5 Period for Acceptance of Offers D6 Late Submissions, Modifications, Revisions, and Withdrawals of Offers D7 Evaluation of Quotations D8 Evaluation Factors D9 Technical Capability D10 Organizational Safety D11 Past Performance D12 Total Evaluated Price D13 Tradeoff Analysis and Contractor Selection D14 Inquiries Regarding the Solicitation

SECTION E – OFFEROR’S REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER STATEMENTS

Solicitation Provisions Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference

SECTION E EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT E-1 OFFEROR’S MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

EXHIBIT E-2 HELICOPTER QUESTIONNAIRE

EXHIBIT E-3 HELICOPTER INFORMATION FORM

EXHIBIT E-4 PAST PERFORMANCE INFORMATION SHEET (PPIS)

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 6 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

AC Advisory Circular AD Airworthiness Directive AIRS Aviation Invoice Reporting Support Application AMS Aviation Management System AOM Aviation Operations and Management A&P Airframe and Power-lant APCO Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials AQD Acquisition Services Directorate ASM Aviation Safety Manager ASO Aviation Safety Office ASTM American Society for Testing and Material ATC Air Traffic Control AUR Aircraft Use Report CASTPE Chief, Aviation Safety, Training and Program Evaluations CFR Code of Federal Regulations CO Contracting Officer COR Contracting Officer’s Representative CTCSS Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System DM Degrees/Minutes/Decimal Minutes DOI Department of Interior DOT Department of Transportation ELT emergency locator transmitter EPA Environmental Protection Agency ERG Emergency Response Guidebook EU Exclusive Use FAA Federal Aviation Administration FAR Federal Acquisition Regulations FS Forest Service FTR Federal Travel Regulations GVW Gross Vehicle Weight GPM Gallons per Minute GPS Global Positioning System HIGE Hover-in-Ground Effect HOGE Hover-out-of-Ground Effect

HOGEJ Hover-out-of-Ground Effect, Jettisonable IAT Interagency Aviation Training IBC Interior Business Center ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization ICS Intercom System IFR Instrument Flight Rules IIC Investigator in Charge IP Institute of Petroleum IPP Invoice Processing Platform ISA International Standard Atmosphere MMSB Manufacturer’s Mandatory Service Bulletins NFPA National Fire Protection Association NTSB National Transportation Safety Board NWCG National Wildfire Coordinating Group

PA Public Address System PA Pressure Altitude PFD Personal Flotation Device PIC Pilot-in-Command PPE Personal Protective Equipment PSD Plastic Sphere Dispenser PSI Pounds per Square Inch PTT Push to Talk RPM Revolutions per Minute SFI Safety Foundation Incorporated STEP Single-skid, Toe-In and Hover Exit/Entry Procedures TBO Time Between Overhaul TERO Tribal Employment Rights Ordinances TSO Technical Service Order UL Underwriter’s Laboratory USDA United States Department of Agriculture USWFS United States Wildland Fire Service VFR Visual Flight Rules VNE Velocity Never Exceed VOX Voice Activation VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio

SECTION A - REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 7 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

SECTION A - REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

A1. ITEM REQUIREMENT

ITEM DESCRIPTION

Designated Base: Homestead, Florida

Exclusive Use Period: May 01-April 30

Aircraft Requirements: One light helicopter as specified in Section B on an exclusive use basis for the entirety of the exclusive use period. One additional light helicopter as specified in Section B on an On-Call basis to be used occasionally as needed during the exclusive use period.**

Crew Compliment Required: Pilot-in-Command (PIC) with relief pilot and fuel service vehicle driver with relief driver.

Fuel Servicing Vehicle Requirement: One vehicle equipped as specified in Section B8.

Minimum Helicopter Requirements:

Seating: Four (4) insured passenger seats not including pilot, but including copilot seat in an aircraft, normally single pilot operated.

Payload: Non-jettisonable payload (HIGE) of 725 pounds at 25 degrees C at 2,500 feet pressure altitude using a pilot weight of 200 pounds, a 25-pound survival kit and fuel for 1.9-hour total.

Powerplant: Turbine engine

Airspeed: 69 knots – Front doors off

Certification: 14 CFR 27

Landing Gear: Skid Type

Configuration: Right Seat PIC

*Note 1: Payload amounts shall be computed using the Government’s Standard Interagency Load Calculation Method and Form. This calculation will also incorporate the Helicopter Fuel Consumption and Weight Reduction Chart (Section C Exhibits), as well as the offered aircraft’s applicable Hover Ceiling Charts, weight and balance report, and equipment list.

**Note 2: There must be at least two aircraft carded under this contract at all times. One aircraft must be available for the entirety of the exclusive use period, and the second aircraft must be available occasionally, as needed by the Government. Advance notice of two weeks will be given when a second aircraft is required.

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 8 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

A2. Schedule Of Services and Prices

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: The contract price shall include all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes and duties as per RFO 52.212-4(k) Taxes (DEVIATION)(Mar 2026).

A2.1 Instructions for Completion of The Following Pricing Schedules:

1. Enter the offeror’s name on each pricing page being submitted. The name should correspond with the name entered on the SF1449 and the 14 CFR 135 holder’s name as established by the certificate holder. (Remittance address information different than that entered on the SF1449 form should be included on the “Offeror’s Miscellaneous Information” page included in Section E.)

2a. Enter the applicable make/model and FAA Registration of the aircraft being offered (minimum of two – see Note 2 in Section A1 above) along with flight rates for all five (5) years. Pricing must be included for all years for the offer to be acceptable.

3. Enter individual FAA registration number(s) of each aircraft where identified.

4. The Pricing Schedule pages included in this document will be made a part of subsequent conformed contract, if selected for award.

5. Complete and submit a separate Pricing Schedule for each aircraft offered. Offers will NOT be evaluated or considered for any item for which all pricing pages are not complete.

6. All pricing shall be in whole dollars only.

7. Complete all shaded areas only.

DESIGNATED REPORTING

BASE

Homestead, FL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD 230 Hours

May 01, 2027 through April 30, 2028

PRIMARY AIRCRAFT FOR

THIS PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model FAA Registration

SECONDARY AIRCRAFT

FOR THIS PRICING

SCHEDULE

Make/Model FAA Registration

OFFEROR NAME

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

EXTENDED AMOUNT

Flight Hours Primary Aircraft

FT Guaranteed*

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Flight Hours Secondary Aircraft (If Ordered)

FT1 Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Estimated Additional Flight Hours (If Ordered)

FT Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Additional pay items Time and Materials (T&M) line item): The additional pay items are a Not-To-Exceed (NTE) amount for funding purposes only and implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule

$10,000.00 NTE

BASE YEAR May 01, 2027 – April 30, 2028

ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

*The Guaranteed number of flight hours will be reduced by the number of flight hours flown by the secondary aircraft. A total of 230 hours, FT and FT1 hours flown combined, is guaranteed.

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 9 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

DESIGNATED REPORTING

BASE

Homestead, FL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD 175 Hours

May 01, 2028 through April 30, 2029

PRIMARY AIRCRAFT FOR

THIS PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model FAA Registration

SECONDARY AIRCRAFT

FOR THIS PRICING

SCHEDULE

Primary Aircraft

FT Guaranteed*

**If Ordered

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Flight Hours Secondary Aircraft (If Ordered)

FT1 Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Estimated Additional Flight Hours (If Ordered)

FT Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Additional pay items Time and Materials (T&M) line item): The additional pay items are a Not-To-Exceed (NTE) amount for funding purposes only and implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule

$10,000.00 NTE

YEAR TWO May 01, 2028 – April 30, 2029

ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

*The Guaranteed number of flight hours will be reduced by the number of flight hours flown by the secondary aircraft. A total of 175 hours, FT and FT1 hours flown combined, is guaranteed.

**The entire quantity is guaranteed if an order is placed. Not to be confused with Minimum Guarantee (see A2.2)

Homestead, FL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD 175 Hours

May 01, 2029 through April 30, 2030

PRIMARY AIRCRAFT FOR

THIS PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model FAA Registration

SECONDARY AIRCRAFT

FOR THIS PRICING

SCHEDULE

Primary Aircraft

FT Guaranteed*

**If Ordered

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Flight Hours Secondary Aircraft (If Ordered)

FT1 Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Estimated Additional Flight Hours (If Ordered)

FT Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Additional pay items Time and Materials (T&M) line item): The additional pay items are a Not-To-Exceed (NTE) amount for funding purposes only and implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule

$10,000.00 NTE

YEAR THREE May 01, 2029 – April 30, 2030

ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

*The Guaranteed number of flight hours will be reduced by the number of flight hours flown by the secondary aircraft. A total of 175 hours, FT and FT1 combined hours flown, is guaranteed.

**The entire quantity is guaranteed if an order is placed. Not to be confused with Minimum Guarantee (see A2.2)

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 10 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

DESIGNATED REPORTING

BASE

Homestead, FL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD 175 Hours

May 01, 2030 through April 30, 2031

PRIMARY AIRCRAFT FOR

THIS PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model FAA Registration

SECONDARY AIRCRAFT

FOR THIS PRICING

SCHEDULE

Primary Aircraft

FT Guaranteed*

**If Ordered

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Flight Hours Secondary Aircraft (If Ordered)

FT1 Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Estimated Additional Flight Hours (If Ordered)

FT Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Additional pay items Time and Materials (T&M) line item): The additional pay items are a Not-To-Exceed (NTE) amount for funding purposes only and implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule

$10,000.00 NTE

YEAR FOUR May 01, 2030 – April 30, 2031

ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

*The Guaranteed number of flight hours will be reduced by the number of flight hours flown by the secondary aircraft. A

**The entire quantity is guaranteed if an order is placed. Not to be confused with Minimum Guarantee (see A2.2)

Homestead, FL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD 175 Hours

May 01, 2031 through April 30, 2032

PRIMARY AIRCRAFT FOR

THIS PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model FAA Registration

SECONDARY AIRCRAFT

FOR THIS PRICING

SCHEDULE

Primary Aircraft

FT Guaranteed*

**If Ordered

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Flight Hours Secondary Aircraft (If Ordered)

FT1 Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Estimated Additional Flight Hours (If Ordered)

FT Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS $ $

Additional pay items Time and Materials (T&M) line item): The additional pay items are a Not-To-Exceed (NTE) amount for funding purposes only and implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule

$10,000.00 NTE

YEAR FIVE May 01, 2031 – April 30, 2032

ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

*The Guaranteed number of flight hours will be reduced by the number of flight hours flown by the secondary aircraft. A

**The entire quantity is guaranteed if an order is placed. Not to be confused with Minimum Guarantee (see A2.2)

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 11 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

A2.2 Minimum Guarantee. The Minimum Guarantee under the contract, as required by contract clause FAR 52.216-22, is 230 flight hours, from the Rate Schedule, for the first year (base year) of the contract. Immediately after contract award, the Contracting Officer will issue a task order obligating the guaranteed minimum amount. However, the guaranteed quantity for flight hours is subject to reductions due to unavailability.

A2.3 Maximum Quantity. The maximum quantity of services the Government may order under the contract (ceiling amount) is $4,000,000. This amount is not historical or planned expenditure but set in accordance with FAR 16.504(a)(4).

A2.4 Obligation of Funding. Funding will not be obligated under the Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The Contracting Officer may issue separate task orders for each ordering period covered under the contract. Each task order will obligate funding for the payment of aircraft services.

A2.5 In the Lower-48 states all fuel shall be provided by the contractor and should be included in the flight rate (wet rate).

A2.6 Rates for flight hours shall be in whole dollars. If the unit prices are adjusted during the life of the contract, they will be adjusted to a whole dollar as follows: amounts of 50 cents or less will be rounded down and amounts of 51 cents or more will be rounded up.

A3. Additional Pay Items (Time & Materials IAW RFO 52.212-4 Alt I (DEVIATION)(Mar 2026)

A3.1 Additional Pay Items Schedule

Note: The rates below are applicable for the entire five-year term of the contract.

Description Pay Item Code

Quantity Unit Unit Price

Extended Standby EA Indefinite Hour $70.00 Fuel Servicing Vehicle – Mileage

350-749 Gallons SMM Indefinite Mile $3.30

Fuel Servicing Vehicle – Mileage 750-1,499 Gallons SML Indefinite Mile $4.60

Fuel Servicing Vehicle – Mileage 1,500 or more Gallons SMX Indefinite Mile $7.59

Subsistence Allowance (Per Diem) PD Indefinite Overnight Standard or High GSA Rate Special Charge for Miscellaneous Allowable

Expenses (i.e., rental car expenses, tie downs, Dept.

of Transportation fees, etc.)

SC Indefinite Each Actual Cost See C22

A3.2 Aviation Fuel Information

The contract's hourly flight rates are subject to economic price adjustments (EPA) for changes in the price of the Jet Fuel contiguous United States (CONUS) fuel base price (see C13, Economic Price Adjustment-Fuel).

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The hourly flight rates proposed are subject to adjustment, up or down, due to the fluctuation in jet fuel price from the reference below. It is important for the contractor to understand the ramifications of the contract's Economic Price Adjustment clause (see C13). The referenced price below (in this section) should be considered when developing the hourly flight rates offered in your quotation. If the referenced price per gallon for jet fuel changes in accordance with section C13, the Government or contractor is entitled to an adjustment to the hourly flight rates based upon the change in fuel price per gallon and the economic cruise speed and fuel consumption of the contract aircraft. The Contractor agrees to accept price adjustments, up or down, based upon its aircraft fuel consumption information and the current reference price of jet fuel at the time of the adjustment. The adjustments will be made via issuance of a bilateral

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 12 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 modification, which must be agreed to by both parties prior to being fully executed.

Make/model of Aircraft Jet Fuel Requested/Effective Date of Price Adjustment

See Referenced Fuel Source Locations table below

Full service Fuel price obtained from http://www.airnav.com/fuel

Base Fuel Price $ 7.26* Fuel Price at adjustment (also becomes New Base)

Effective Date Date of Award Effective Date

Source Document Original Contract Source Document

Rate Adjustment $ X consumption rate of Increase or

Decrease Due

Current Flight Rates

1st Contract Year:

2nd Contract Year:

3rd Contract Year:

4th Contract Year:

5th Contract Year:

Adjusted Flight Rates

1st Contract Year:

2nd Contract Year:

3rd Contract Year:

4th Contract Year:

5th Contract Year:

*Base Fuel Price will be updated at time of award.

Referenced Fuel Source Locations:

AIRPORT / LOCATION JET FUEL (BASE PRICE)

Everglades Airbase (X51) $6.75 Immokalee Regional Airport (KIMM) $6.24 Naples Municipal Airport (KAPF) $7.81 Miami Executive Airport (KTMB) $8.25

AVERAGE (BASE PRICE) $7.26

DATE FUEL PRICES OBTAINED 10/23/2026

SECTION B – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 13 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

SECTION B TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

B1 Scope of Contract

B1.1 The intent of this solicitation and resultant contract is to obtain fully contractor operated and maintained exclusive use helicopter flight services to transport personnel and/or cargo in support of Government natural resource missions. Contractor services include provision of a helicopter, personnel, fuel servicing vehicle, fuel, and all other associated equipment as prescribed herein. Missions will include, but are not limited to resource, search and rescue, law enforcement limited to nonthreatening surveillance and reconnaissance, and other administrative and related resource activities.

B1.2 Law enforcement missions include but are not limited to, transporting Federal personnel to a law enforcement location, low-level reconnaissance or surveillance flying, and prisoner transport. Law enforcement officers will fly with loaded firearms on-board the aircraft and may enter areas of potential contraband activity. Firearms will be transported in accordance to policy and guidance contained in the NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations (NSHO) and Interagency Aviation Transport of Hazardous Material. Each of these documents may be found at the following link; https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides The pilot and air crew will jointly conduct risk assessments for all missions to determine the risk and hazards. No mission will be flown that presents an unacceptable level of risk.

B1.3 The Government and Contractor must establish an effective working relationship to successfully complete this contract. The Contractor’s employees’ cooperation, professionalism, and positive attitude toward accomplishment of the mission and aviation safety are an integral element of this relationship.

B1.4 The Government has interagency and cooperative agreements with other Federal and State agencies and private landholders and may dispatch aircraft under this contract for such cooperative use.

B2 Certifications

The Contractor must hold and keep current all of the following required certificates and must ensure that contract aircraft are operated and maintained in compliance with those certificates at all times:

B2.1 A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Carrier or Operating Certificate which authorizes the Contractor to operate in the category and class of aircraft and under flight conditions required by this contract (e.g., rotorcraft, visual flight rules (VFR) day/night, passengers, and cargo) in the contiguous United States and Alaska.

B2.2 A Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 135 (14 CFR Part 135) Air Carrier Certificate. These aircraft must be carried on the list required by 14 CFR 135.63 or Operations Specifications Part D, "Aircraft Listing," as appropriate.

B2.3 A 14 CFR Part 133, Rotorcraft External Load Operations Certificate which authorizes Class B loads, as a minimum. The contract aircraft must be carried on the list required by 14 CFR Part 133.27(a) (Operations Specifications Part D, "D085 Aircraft Listing").

B2.4 A 14 CFR 137, Agricultural Aircraft Operations Certificate. These aircraft must be carried on the list required by 14 CFR Part 133.27(a) (Operations Specifications Part D, "Aircraft Listing").

B2.5 The contract aircraft must have a Standard Airworthiness Certificate. Installation of any equipment required by this contract must be FAA-approved.

B3 Order of Precedence (Specifications)

In the event of inconsistencies within the technical specification, the following order will be used in such resolution: (1) typed provisions of these specifications; (2) USWFS Aviation Operations and Management (AOM) supplements and/or exhibits incorporated by reference; (3) 14 CFR incorporated by reference; (4) aircraft manufacturer's specifications; and (5) other documents incorporated by reference.

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 14 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

B4 Contracts

B4.1 The Contractor must maintain a complete, current copy of the contract, modifications, and task orders (if applicable) in each contract aircraft throughout the performance period.

B4.2 The pilot must have task order information (i.e. task number, performance period) in his/her possession prior to any flights under this contract and make this information available to government representatives on request.

B4.3 Electronic copies of contracts and task orders may be used. However, the contractor is responsible for ensuring that the documents are uploaded on an appropriate viewing device (e.g., laptop or tablet), which must be charged and made available at the aircraft for reference by government representatives upon request. Further, the contractor must agree to hold the government harmless for any inadvertent or accidental damage to the device.

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

B5 Condition of Equipment

The Contractor-furnished helicopter, fuel servicing vehicle, and all other required equipment must be operable, free of damage, and in good repair. Aircraft systems and components must be free of leaks, except where specified by the manufacturer.

B5.1 Prior to inspection and acceptance, the Contractor must permanently repair or replace all windows and windshields that have been temporarily repaired (stop drilling is considered temporary). All windows and windshields must be maintained at all times and must be clean and free of scratches, cracks, crazing, distortion, repairs, or tinting which hinders visibility.

B5.2 The aircraft interior must be clean and neat with no unrepaired tears, rips, or other damage. The exterior finish, including the paint, must be clean, neat, and in good condition. Any corrosion must be within manufacturer or FAA acceptable limits.

B5.3 Lap belt and shoulder harness assemblies shall be in acceptable condition as determined by the Government. See the Unacceptable Aircraft Lap Belt and Shoulder Harness Conditions Exhibit (see Section C) for examples of lap belt and shoulder harness conditions that are not acceptable.

B5.4 Military or other similar low visibility paint schemes are unacceptable. The AOM Technical Inspector may approve high visibility enhancements.

B6 Aircraft Equipment Requirements

The Contractor must provide one fully compliant helicopter that is equipped as shown below for each item:

B6.1 A complete set of current aeronautical charts covering the expected area of operations.

Note: Electronic flight bags are acceptable if authorized by the FAA in the company’s operation specifications.

B6.2 One digital hour meter installed in a location visible by the pilot and front seat observer while seated. The meter must be wired in series with a switch on the collective control, and a switch activated by engine or transmission oil pressure or by equivalent means, to record flight time only.

B6.3 Free air temperature gauge.

B6.4 One set of individual lap belts for each installed seat.

B6.5 Double strap shoulder harness with automatic or manual locking inertia reel for each front seat occupant. Shoulder straps and lap belts must fasten with one single-point metal-to-metal, quick-release mechanism. Heavy-duty (military-style) harnesses with fabric loop connecting the shoulder harness to the male portion of the lap belt buckle are acceptable.

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 15 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

B6.5.1 Shoulder harnesses equipped with inertia reel (either single-strap or double-strap) for each aft cabin occupant. Shoulder harness straps and lap belts must fasten with a single-point, metal-to-metal, quick-release mechanism.

B6.6 Reserved

B6.7 Fire extinguisher(s), as required by 14 CFR Part 135, must be a handheld bottle, minimum 2-B:C rating, mounted and accessible to the flight crew while seated. (See the fire extinguisher maintenance instructions in Section B29.)

B6.8 Dual controls for initial pilot performance evaluation. (May also be required for interim or recurrent pilot performance evaluations at the option of the Government.)

B6.9 Aircraft lighting for night operation in accordance with 14 CFR Part 91.205(c), including instrument lights.

B6.10 Flight instruments for low visibility flight conditions, including gyroscopic bank and pitch indicator (ADI), directional gyro, vertical speed indicator and rate of turn indicator or skid/slip indicator or inclinometer.

Note: In lieu of these listed instruments, a single, new generation electronic instrument providing combined data meeting at minimum the following TSO's: C3e, C4c and C113A.

B6.11 A strobe light (with either a white, or half-white/half-red lens) or a flashing LED (red or white), mounted on top of the aircraft or otherwise visible from above, with an independent activating switch. A red strobe or rotating beacon does not satisfy this requirement.

B6.12 High visibility, pulsating, forward-facing, conspicuity lighting.

B6.13 High visibility markings on main rotor blades as specified by the Acceptable Paint Schemes Exhibit (See Section C).

B6.14 High-skid-type landing gear if manufactured for make and model.

B6.14.1 Fixed Flotation Landing Gear (available to be installed when requested by the government).

B6.14.2 Skid type landing gear equipped with emergency pop-out floats (available to be installed when requested by the government).

B6.15 Personnel access steps for aircraft with a floor height greater than 18 inches to ensure safe entrance and exit from each door.

B6.16 Locking cap(s) on all fuel inlet ports.

B6.17 Cabin heater and window defogger.

B6.18 Wire strike protection system (mechanical). If manufactured for the make and model of helicopter.

B6.19 Main Rotor Brake.

B6.20 Cabin doors which may be removed or opened in flight.

B6.21 Cargo compartment, internal and external capable of accommodating 58-inch-long shovels, rakes, and other tools as specified below:

For internal:

B6.21.1 15-cubic-foot baggage compartment within the aircraft fuselage specifically designed to carry cargo separate from the cabin.

Note: Requires rear bulkhead modification required on some models of aircraft.

B6.22 Cargo restraint system for aircraft manufactured with a parcel/storage area behind the rear passenger seats.

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 16 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

B6.23 An accessory power source consisting of an MS 3112E-12-3S three-pin connector, accessible in the cabin. Pin B must be airframe ground; pin A must be +28VDC (for 28-volt aircraft); and pin C must be +14VDC (for 14-volt aircraft). The circuit must be protected by a 5-amp circuit protection.

B6.23.1 Two USB power sources, accessible in the aft cabin, for charging small electronic devices such as cell phones, iPads, etc.

B6.24 A first aid kit containing items specified in the First Aid and Survival Kits Exhibit (see Section C) must be carried aboard the aircraft on all flights.

B6.25 A survival kit containing items specified in First Aid and Survival Kits Exhibit (see Section C) must be carried aboard the aircraft on all flights and must be included in weight and balance/load calculations.

B6.26 A convex mirror for the pilot to observe the sling load.

B6.27 One keeperless cargo hook that may be loaded and locked in a single motion with one hand and is rated at the maximum lifting capacity of the aircraft. This hook must incorporate both an electrically activated release and a secondary mechanically activated release. The electric release must be activated by a switch on the cyclic. The switch must be guarded/protected to minimize the possibility of inadvertent activation. The secondary mechanical release must incorporate a hydraulically activated release if available for the make and model of helicopter. (See the cargo hook maintenance requirements in Section B29).

B6.28 Cockpit-mounted external load indicator with readout of weight carried on the cargo hook.

B6.29 Reserved

B6.30 Reserved

B6.31 A remote operating switch for remote hook clearly marked for "open" and "closed" and mounted on the collective control to avoid confusion with the airframe cargo hook release. The switch must be of a different design and must be mounted so as to not easily be confused with the RPM Control [Beep Range] switch.

B6.32 Part number MS 3101E-24-11S, nine-pin connector, for use as the power source for a remote cargo hook. Pin D must be airframe ground. Pin E must be switched 28VDC, protected by a manually operable, 50-amp circuit breaker. The water bucket/tank open switch must also activate this circuit.

B6.32.1 A lanyard to support the connector and mounted within 12 inches of the cargo hook.

B6.32.2 This connector must have multiple circuit capacity sufficient to provide power and control for Contractor-furnished equipment. The longline remote hook, fixed tank, or water bucket must be wired through this connector- Wiring diagrams for various equipment configurations are available from the: USWFS Aviation Operations and Management 300 E. Mallard Drive, Suite 200 Boise, ID 83706 or USDA Forest Service, 3833 S. Development Avenue Boise, ID 83705-5354.

B6.33 One remote cargo hook with related cabling and release system complying with the following specification:

B6.33.1 Electrically activated remote cargo hook that may be loaded and locked in a single motion with one hand and that is rated at the maximum lifting capacity of the aircraft.

B6.33.2 The remote hook must be protected by a metal ring or cage that does not interfere with the use or function of the hook.

B6.33.3 Synthetic rope meeting the requirements of the Helicopter Synthetic Longline Requirements Exhibit (see Section C).

B6.33.4 Two ropes are required; one each in 50 and 100- foot lengths.

B6.33.5 Electrical cables must be protected from pinching by hooks or shackles and from damage caused by stretching of the line. The electrical wire must be long enough at the aircraft cargo hook end to prevent a swinging load from unplugging the electrical connector.

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 17 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

B6.33.6 All fabrication and installation methods must comply with 14 CFR 133 and Advisory Circular 43.13–1B.

B6.33.7 Operating switch for the remote hook. (See B6.31 for specification. Only 1 switch required).

B7 Avionics Requirements

B7.1 General

B7.1.1 The Contractor must provide, install, and maintain the following systems in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and the installation and maintenance standards of Section B7. Detailed avionics systems performance requirements are listed in Avionics Operational Test Standards (copies available upon request from OAS Avionics, or the most recent list may be found online at: https://www.nifc.gov/resources/NIICD/niicd-documents.

B7.2 Avionics Installation and Maintenance Standards

B7.2.1 Strict adherence to the recommendations in the following FAA Advisory Circulars is required: AC 43.13-1B Chapter 11, "Aircraft Electrical Systems," and Chapter 12, "Aircraft Avionics Systems”; AC 43.13-2B Chapter 1, "Structural Data," Chapter 2, "Communication, Navigation, and Emergency Locator Transmitter System Installations," and Chapter 3, "Antenna Installation."

B7.2.2 All avionics systems requiring an antenna must be installed with a properly matched, aircraft-certified antenna, unless otherwise specified. Antennas must be polarized as required by the avionics system and must have a voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) of 3.0 to 1 or better.

B7.2.3 Although the contract aircraft may not be certified for flight under instrument flight rules (IFR), the aircraft's static pressure system, altimeter instrument system, and automatic pressure altitude reporting system must be maintained in accordance with the IFR requirements of 14 CFR Part 91.411 and inspected and tested every 24 calendar months, as specified by 14 CFR Part 43, appendices E and F.

B7.2.4 Transmitters shall not open squelch on, or interfere with, other AM or FM transceivers in the aircraft which monitor different frequencies. So-called “Transmit Interlock” functions shall not be used with communication transceivers.

B7.2.5 All installed transceivers must be placarded with designations matching the transmitter/receiver controls on the installed audio control system(s).

B7.3 Communications Systems

B7.3.1 One automatic-fixed Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), certified under TSO-C126b (or newer) which must be installed in a conspicuous or marked location, and meet the same requirements as those detailed for aircraft in 14 CFR 91.207 (excluding section f). If not powered by its own, integral battery, the ELT remote switch/light must be powered by unswitched aircraft power. ELT antennas must be mounted externally to the aircraft unless installed in a location approved by the aircraft manufacturer. TSO-C126b and newer ELTs require documentation of current registration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), or the national civil aviation authority with which the aircraft is registered.

B7.3.2 One panel-mounted VHF-AM (VHF-1) aeronautical transceivers, each with a minimum of 760 channels covering 118.000 to

136.975 MHz. The transceivers must have channels selectable in no greater than 25 kHz increments and a minimum of 5 watts carrier output power. The transceivers’ operational controls must be mounted so they are readily visible and accessible to the pilot. Although not required by Federal Aviation Regulations, the aircraft’s radio call sign (normally the aircraft registration number) must be displayed on the instrument panel, in view of the flight crew.

B7.3.3 One P25-compliant VHF-FM transceivers. Transceiver (FM-1) must provide selection of narrowband analog (12.5 kHz) or narrowband digital (12.5kHz) operation on each of a minimum of 100 channels. Each transceivers’ operational controls must be located and arranged so that the pilot and observer/copilot when seated, have full and unrestricted movement of each control without interference from clothing, the cockpit structure, or the flight controls.

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 18 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

B7.3.3.1 The transceiver’s operational frequency range must include the band of 136.0000 MHz to 173.9975 MHz. The operator(s) must be able to program any usable channels within that band, along with any required CTCSS tones, National Access Codes (NAC’s), or Talk Group ID’s (TGID’s), while in flight. The transceiver must also incorporate a separate, programmable GUARD receiver, with accompanying GUARD transmit capability. Unless instructed by the Government for use on a specific project, all frequencies programmed for use under this Contract must be in the narrowband analog mode.

B7.3.3.2 Carrier output power for the transceiver must be 10 watts nominal value (original design specification). The transceiver must be capable of displaying receiver and transmitter operating frequency, alpha-numeric channel labels, and must provide both receiver and transmitter activation indicators for MAIN and GUARD. Simultaneous monitoring of both MAIN and GUARD receivers is required. Scanning of the GUARD frequency is not acceptable.

B7.3.3.3 Prior to acceptance under this contract, the transceiver must be programmed with the narrowband analog GUARD receive and transmit frequencies of 168.625 MHz, with a 110.9 Hz CTCSS tone on transmit only.

B7.3.3.4 The following VHF-FM aeronautical transceivers are known to meet the above requirements:

• See https://www.nifc.gov/resources/NIICD/niicd-documents for a complete, current listing of approved radios.

B7.3.3.5 Each required VHF-FM transceiver must be equipped with a conveniently located programming port, to facilitate programming via a government-owned laptop computer. The port(s) must be protected from accidental damage via contact, be hard-wired to the transceiver(s), not require switching of any cables for utilization, and must be conveniently located for ease of use. The Contractor must also furnish appropriate cables of adequate length, and/or any necessary adapters, to interconnect the aircraft programming ports to the serial and/or USB port(s) of the Government laptop computers as required.

NOTE: The “DIN” type connector receptacle on the front panel of some TDFM-136-series radios is part of an encryption feature and may not function as a programming port connector. This connector can be utilized for channel programming on model TDFM-136A, serial numbers FDA1200 and higher, and model TDFM-136B ONLY.

B7.3.4 Provisions for auxiliary VHF-FM (AUX-FM) portable radio

B7.3.4.1 Interface for installing and properly operating an auxiliary VHF-FM portable radio through the aircraft's audio control system(s). The interface must consist of the appropriate wiring from the audio control system, terminated in an ITT/Cannon type MS3112E1210S 10-pin connector conveniently located for use by the observer/copilot, and utilizing the contact assignments as specified by drawing FS/OAS A-17 (See Section C).

B7.3.4.2 One weatherproof, external, broadband antenna covering the 150-174 MHz band, with associated RG-58A/U (or equivalent) coaxial cable and connector, terminated in a bulkhead-mounted, female BNC connector (type UG-290A), conveniently located for use by the observer/copilot adjacent to the above 10-pin connector (Comant model CI-177 or equal).

B7.3.4.3 Mounting facilities for securely installing the auxiliary VHF-FM portable radio in the cockpit in accordance with the FAA AC 43.13-2B specifications. Locate and arrange the mounting facilities so that a seated observer/copilot has full and unrestricted movement of the radio's controls, without interference from the 18-inch adapter cable, clothing, cockpit structure, or flight controls.

B7.3.4.4 Positive-polarity microphone excitation voltage provided to the AUX-FM system from the aircraft DC power system through a suitable resistor network. A blocking capacitor must be provided to prevent the portable radio microphone excitation voltage from entering the system. Sidetone for the AUX-FM must also be provided (NAT model AA34-300, Premier model PA-34, or equivalent).

B7.3.4.5 The Contractor must provide an auxiliary FM adapter cord assembly to interface the connectors and circuits necessary to operate the BK KNG-P150/KNG-P150S/KNG2-P150 radio through the MS 3112E-12-10S connector in the aircraft. The FS/OAS drawing A-15 (see Section C) is provided as one possible interface.

B7.3.4.6 In lieu of the above AUX-FM requirements, the Contractor may substitute an additional VHF-FM aeronautical transceiver (FM-3) which meets the requirements for the VHF-FM aeronautical transceiver(s) as detailed above.

B7.3.5 Automated Flight Following (AFF) Program

USWFS Exclusive Use Type 3 Helicopter 19 Solicitation #140D0426Q0654 Everglades National Park

B7.3.5.1 One satellite-based aircraft tracking hardware for each aircraft offered, compatible with the government’s AFF Program (https://www.aff.gov). Not all available satellite-based tracking systems are compatible with the Government’s AFF Program, nor meets AFF’s requirements. The contractor must ensure that the aircraft hardware offered is compatible with AFF.gov. For questions about current compatibility requirements, select the “HELP” button at https://www.aff.gov.

B7.3.5.2 The AFF aircraft hardware must be powered by the aircraft’s electrical system, installed per the manufacturer’s installation manual, and operational in all phases of flight. AFF aircraft hardware must utilize as a minimum: Satellite communications, an externally or internally mounted antenna, provide data to the Government’s AFF viewing software, use aircraft power via a dedicated circuit breaker for power protection, and be mounted so as to not endanger any occupant from AFF aircraft hardware during periods of turbulence. Antennas should be placed where they have the best view of the overhead sky as possible. Externally mounted antennas are recommended to improve system performance. Any visual indicators for remotely installed units must be mounted so that they can be easily viewed by the pilot.

B7.3.5.3 AFF communications must always be fully operational in all areas of operation. Contractors working in or accepting dispatches to the State of Alaska, Southern Canada, or Western Canada must have an AFF system capable of being always tracked in these locations. Not all manufacturers’ AFF equipment communication links will operate effectively in all geographic areas.

B7.3.5.4 The contractor must maintain a subscription service through the AFF aircraft hardware provider allowing AFF position reporting for satellite tracking via the Government AFF viewing software. The position-reporting interval must be every two minutes while the aircraft is in flight. The contractor must register their AFF aircraft hardware with the Government through https://www.aff.gov providing complete tail number; manufacturer and serial number of the AFF transceiver; aircraft make and model; and contractor contact information. If the contractor relocates previously registered AFF aircraft hardware into another aircraft, then the contractor must contact the government’s AFF Program making the appropriate changes prior to aircraft use. In all cases, the contractor must ensure that the correct aircraft information is indicated within AFF. The contractor must notify the Government of system changes, scheduled maintenance, and planned service outages

B7.3.5.5 Registration contact information, a web accessible feedback form, and additional information is available at:

https://www.aff.gov.

B7.3.5.6 Prior to the aircraft’s annual contract inspection, the contractor must ensure compliance with all AFF systems requirements.

The contractor must additionally perform an operational check of the system.