BLM_T1_Helicopter_140D8021R0007_-_Amendment_1_FINAL_0001.docx

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION A - REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

Solicitation No. 140D8021R0007-0001 BLM/Boise, ID 10

SECTION A – REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

A1 – Schedule of Pricing

The intent of this solicitation is to obtain fully contractor operated and maintained exclusive use helicopter flight services for 120 days to transport qualified non-crewmembers and/or cargo in support of fire and natural resource missions for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The designated base of operations for the aircraft is Boise, Idaho; however, the aircraft will be subject to dispatch anywhere in the Lower 48 United States and Alaska. The exclusive use period is May 15 through September 11 (120 days). The resulting Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract's performance period will be a base year with four (4) one-year option periods. Contractor services include provision of a helicopter, personnel, fuel servicing vehicle, fuel, and all other associated equipment as prescribed in this solicitation.

A1.1 Item Requirement

Designated Base: Boise, Idaho

Aircraft Required: One Type I Heavy (more than 12,500 lb) helicopter.

Mechanic’s Service Vehicle & Fuel Servicing Vehicle Equipment The Contractor must provide one fuel servicing vehicle (fuel truck and trailer combination is acceptable) and one mechanic’s service vehicle for each line item (aircraft) awarded as specified in Section B8.

Bureau: Bureau of Land Management

Period of Performance: May 1, 2022 through April 30, 2027 (if all options are exercised)

Crew Compliment Required: Pilot-in-Command (PIC), Second-in-Command (SIC), Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver(s), Relief PIC, Relief SIC, Relief Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver(s), Primary Mechanic, Secondary Mechanic and Relief Mechanic. Maximum of five contractor personnel at any one time.

Minimum Aircraft Requirements in addition to B6 through B8:

**Note In order to be considered, your aircraft must meet all of these Minimum Aircraft Requirements

Powerplant: Two turbine engines

Airspeed: Capable of 140 knot indicated airspeed at 7,000 feet and 25 degrees C

Landing Gear: Wheeled landing gear with shock absorbing struts.

Door Configuration: Dual aft sliding doors.

Certification: Standard or restricted category airworthiness certificate.

Target Aircraft Capabilities

**Note: The Government has identified target aircraft capabilities that are deemed beneficial to the Government’s mission and may contribute to a higher assessment of Aircraft Capability in proposed aircraft.

Fuel system: Self-sealing fuel tanks incorporating break away valves and lines.

Landing Gear: Rated to absorb over 10 g’s.

Certification: Standard category

(Payload amounts shall be computed by using the Government’s Standard Interagency Load Calculation Method and Form and the Helicopter Fuel Consumption and Weight Reduction Chart included under Section B Exhibits along with the offered aircraft’s applicable Hover Ceiling Charts, weight and balance report, and equipment list that you provide.)

Note: All exhibits applicable to this solicitation are included at the end of Section C.

A2 Schedules of Services and Prices/Costs

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This solicitation contains a schedule for one (1) required aircraft. The Government will select one (1) contractor to award with an annual exclusive use period of 120 days. After the 120-day exclusive use period expires, aircraft services may be extended at the discretion of the Government, the maximum days of Availability that can be ordered by the Government is 180 days, per item, per calendar year.

A2.1 Schedule Boise, Idaho Exclusive Use Period of 120 days.

Offerors shall complete the shaded areas below.

REPORTING BASE

Boise, ID

EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

120 calendar days START DATE: May 15, 2022 END DATE: September 11, 2022

OFFEROR NAME

AIRCRAFT FOR THIS

PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model

FAA Registration #

ITEM

ITEM CODE

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE

Guaranteed days per aircraft subject to availability

DAYS

Price per flight hour for estimated flight hours

FLIGHT HOURS

Price per day for AVAILABILITY During Extension Period

Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

$60,000.00 EST

The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

$10,000.00 EST

BASE YEAR May 1, 2022 – April 30, 2023 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

ANNUAL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

Continuous Period of 120 Days

ITEM

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

EXTENDED AMOUNT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE

2A

Daily Availability

2B

Estimated Flight Hours

FLIGHT HOURS

2C

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per day for AVAILABILITY During Extension Period

2D

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

2E

Additional pay items (T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

$60,000.00 EST

2F

Additional pay items (optional for extension)(T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

OPTION YEAR ONE May 1, 2023 – April 30, 2024 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

ANNUAL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

Continuous Period of120 Days

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE

3A

3B

FLIGHT HOURS

3C

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per day for AVAILABILITY During Extension Period

3D

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

3E

Additional pay items (T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

$60,000.00 EST

3F

Additional pay items (optional for extension)(T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

OPTION YEAR TWO May 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

ANNUAL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

Continuous Period of 120 Days

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE

4A

4B

FLIGHT HOURS

4C

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per day for AVAILABILITY During Extension Period

4D

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

4E

Additional pay items (T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

$60,000.00 EST

4F

Additional pay items (optional for extension)(T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

OPTION YEAR THREE May 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

ANNUAL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

Continuous Period of 90120 Days

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE

5A

5B

FLIGHT HOURS

5C

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per day for AVAILABILITY During Extension Period

5D

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

5E

Additional pay items (T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

$60,000.00 EST

5F

Additional pay items (optional for extension)(T&M line item) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

OPTION YEAR FOUR May 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

ESTIMATED TOTAL OF LINE ITEM 0010 (base and all option years)

(Reimbursed as Time & Materials in accordance with FAR 52.212-4 Alt 1)

SCHEDULE

SUB-ITEM

ADDITIONAL PAY ITEMS

PAY ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

APPLICABLE FOR OPERATIONS IN CONTERMIMOUS 48 STATES

SML

SMX

750-1,499 gallons $ 2.45 1,500 or more gallons $ 3.51

(Special Charge)

SC

vi

Per Diem and Subsistence Allowance

PD

A3.1 Funding will not be obligated under the Indefinite-Delivery Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contract, but rather via issuance of task orders when services are required. No services are to be provided without a task order.

A3.2 The Minimum Guarantee under the contract, as required by contract clause 52.216-22, is the total amount for Daily Availability during the Exclusive Use Period (120 days as awarded) under the first year’s task order. However, the guaranteed quantity for daily availability is subject to reductions due to unavailability. The estimated quantity for daily availability during an extension of the exclusive use period is not guaranteed and also is subject to reductions due to unavailability.

A3.3 Exhibits that will be applicable under the contract are included at the end of Section C; exhibits that are only applicable during the solicitation phase of this procurement are included at the end of Section E.

A3.4 The start date for services may be changed by the issuance of a Notice to Proceed in accordance with contract terms & conditions.

A3.5 Only warranted Contracting Officers employed by the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) Interior Business Center (IBC) Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD) are authorized to issue task orders off this contract.

FOR GOVERNMENT USE ONLY – DO NOT WRITE IN THIS AREA

Contracting Officer will complete at time of award and again when fuel adjustments are made Requested and Effective Date This Adjustment

Type Aircraft Type I Helicopter

|X| Jet Fuel |_| Av Gas

Base Price

$4.57

Reference Price

Effective Date

Award date

Source Document

ORIGINAL CONTRACT

Source Document

Difference

$ X consumption rate of

Increase Due

Old Flight Rate

New Flight Rate

Re-established Base Price

** Fuel prices listed below will be used to establish the base fuel price at award.

BELOW INFORMATION SHALL BE COMPLETED BY THE CONTRACTING AGENCY AT AWARD

Aircraft payload is an element of your offer. The hover-out-of ground effect (HOGE) payload that was confirmed for the aircraft identified on the following page is made a part of the contract. Payload is computed using the Section A payload requirement and will be verified at the time of aircraft inspection. Water/retardant bucket sizes accepted for this contract are identified below. Contractor’s Fuel Service Vehicle size relative to number of gallons of fuel the vehicle can carry is identified below.

GOVERNMENT USE ONLY

CONFIRMED HOGE PAYLOAD AMOUNT

PERFORMANCE REFERENCE (FLIGHT MANUAL PAGE/CHART)

WATER/RETARDANT BUCKET CAPACITY REQUIRED

1ST

2ND

FUEL SERVICE VEHICLE SIZE (IN GALLONS)

1ST VEHICLE

2ND VEHICLE (IF OFFERED)

SECTION B – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

B1 Scope of Contract

B1.1 The intent of this single award IDIQ contract is to obtain fully contractor operated and maintained exclusive use helicopter flight services to transport qualified non-crewmembers 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 in this solicitation. Missions may include, but are not limited to, fire suppression, fire monitoring, initial attack, prescribed fire and aerial ignition, law enforcement limited to nonthreatening surveillance and reconnaissance, STEP, hoist and fast rope insertion operations and other administrative and related resource activities. The Government will direct aircraft to support its missions and objectives.

B1.2 During the exclusive use period and any subsequent extension, aircraft furnished shall be subject to the exclusive use and control of the Government 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

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 aviation safety and accomplishment of the mission 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.

B1.5 This aircraft may be dispatched to Alaska. Because deployment to Alaska usually requires transit through Canada, all required contractor personnel must possess current passports. For the Alaska-specific equipment and/or operational requirements, refer to the Alaska Supplement Exhibit (see Section C).

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, firefighters and cargo) in the conterminous United States and Alaska.

B2.2 A Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 135 (14 CFR 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. (Part D listing is not applicable to restricted category aircraft offered)

B2.3 A 14 CFR 133 Rotorcraft External Load Operations Certificate, which authorizes Class B loads, as a minimum.

B2.4 A 14 CFR 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operations Certificate.

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

B2.5.1 Restricted category aircraft offered must be certified under 14 CFR 21.25 (b) (2) “Forest and Wildlife conservation”.

B2.6 Left seat pilot-in-command (PIC) required. The Contractor is required to have the appropriate FAA approvals for left seat operations. The Contractor must have CFR 14 Part 133 approval for left seat operation, and external load operations.

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) DOI Office of Aviation Services (OAS) supplements and/or exhibits incorporated by reference; (3) 14 CFR incorporated by reference; (4) aircraft manufacturer's specifications; (5) other documents incorporated by reference.

B4 Contracts

B4.1 The Contractor must maintain a complete, current copy of the contract and all modifications 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. Following receipt of a printed task order, the pilot will carry a hard copy of the task order in the aircraft.

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 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 Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR) 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 copilot 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.

B6.6 Single or double strap shoulder harnesses for each aft cabin occupant (w/inertia reel if available). All shoulder harness straps and lap belts must fasten with a single-point, metal-to-metal, quick-release mechanism.

B6.7 Fire extinguisher(s), as required by 14 CFR 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 Reserved

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

B6.10 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.

B6.11 High visibility, pulsating, forward-facing, conspicuity lighting.

B6.12 High visibility markings on main rotor blades as specified by the Acceptable Paint Schemes Exhibit.

B6.13 Reserved .

B6.14 Reserved

B6.15 Equipped for closed circuit refueling with locking cap(s) or dust covers on fuel inlet ports (if manufactured for the model of aircraft offered.

B6.16 Cabin heater and window defogger.

B6.17 Wire strike protection system (mechanical). (Note: If manufactured for the make and model of helicopter.)

B6.18 Reserved

B6.19 Reserved

B6.20 Cabin floor protection. Helicopters shall have floor protection (thickness not to exceed ½”) that allow for installation of all passenger seats and access to all factory floor anchor points.

B6.21 Reserved

B6.22 FAA approved internal cargo restraint system.

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.

B6.24 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 Reserved

B6.27 One 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. (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 One collapsible, variable capacity water/retardant bucket. See the Water Bucket Use Procedures Exhibit (see Section C). The bucket must have a manufacturer's capacity adjustment commensurate with the maximum lifting capability (HOGE-J) of the contract aircraft at 5,000 feet pressure altitude (PA), 30˚ Celsius with two 200-pound pilots, 25-pound survival kit, and 1.5 total hours of fuel. The bucket must be capable of being operated with all increments of the longline; i.e., 50, 100, 150 feet.

B6.29.1 The bucket must be equipped with power fill capability allowing the bucket to be filled from shallow water sources. Example: SEI Powerfill Snorkel System (or equivalent)

B6.30 A second collapsible, variable capacity water/retardant bucket. See the Water Bucket Use Procedures Exhibit (see section C). The bucket must have a manufacturer's capacity adjustment commensurate with the maximum lifting capability (HOGE-J) of the contract aircraft at 7,000 feet PA, 25˚ Celsius with two 200-pound pilots, 25-pound survival kit, and 1.5 total hours of fuel. The bucket must also be capable of being operated with all increments of the longline; i.e., 50, 100, 150 feet.

B6.30.1 The bucket must be equipped with power fill capability allowing the bucket to be filled from shallow water sources. Example: SEI Powerfill Snorkel System (or equivalent)

Note: The bucket combinations provided in B6.29 and B6.30 must provide adjustments that allow the widest range of altitude/temperature combinations (subject to the limitations of the bucket manufacturer’s available sizes) for the maximum lifting capability of the helicopter beginning at 5,000 feet PA at 30˚ Celsius extending upward to 7,000 feet PA at 25˚ Celsius and above. Two (2) variable capacity Powerfill capable gated buckets, each having multiple drop capability, may be used to meet the requirements in B6.29 and B6.30.

B6.31 A remote operating switch for the water/retardant bucket 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] switch.

B6.32 Part number MS 3101E-24-11S, nine-pin connector, for use as the power source for a helitorch or 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. A list of water buckets with required pin wiring can be found in the USDA Forest Service/DOI Office of Aviation Services Drawing A16 Exhibit (see Section C). Wiring diagrams for various equipment configurations are available from the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Aviation Services, 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 specifications:

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 The length of the rope must be readily adjustable from 50 to 150 feet in 50-foot increments.

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.

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

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

B6.34 Dual sliding doors for aft cabin passenger access.

B6.35 Left pilot door modified with bubble for performing vertical reference operations.

B6.36 Alaska specific equipment requirements. Refer to Alaska Supplement Exhibit. (See Exhibit 12)

B6.36.1 The tundra pads, and camera/load monitoring system, as required in Exhibit 12, will be inspected and must be together with the aircraft for the initial inspection and all subsequent contract renewal inspections.

B6.36.2 The FAA certification must be available at the time of agency inspection.

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/NIICD/docs/avionics/FSOAS_A24F.pdf

B7.2 Avionics Installation and Maintenance Standards

B7.2.1 Strict adherence to the recommendations in the following FAA Advisory Circulars is required: AC 43.131B Chapter 11, "Aircraft Electrical Systems," and Chapter 12, "Aircraft Avionics Systems”; AC 43.132B 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 systems, altimeter instrument systems, and automatic pressure altitude reporting systems 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 are monitoring different frequencies. So-called “Transmit Interlock” functions shall not be used with communication transceivers.

B7.2.5 The aircraft must be equipped to meet the Cockpit Voice Recorder and/or Flight Data Recorder requirements of 14 CFR 91.609 or 14 CFR 135.151/135.152. This applies to both Standard and Restricted Category aircraft.

B7.3 Communications Systems

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

B7.3.1 One automatic-fixed Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), certified under TSO-C126 (or newer) which must be installed in a conspicuous or marked location, and meet the same requirements as those detailed for airplanes 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-C126 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 Two panel-mounted VHF-AM (VHF-1, VHF-2) 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 pilots. 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 Two P25-compliant VHF-FM transceivers. Each transceiver (FM-1, FM-2), must provide selection of narrowband analog (12.5 kHz) or narrowband digital operation on each of a minimum of 100 channels. Each transceivers’ operational controls must be located and arranged so that the pilot and /copilot when seated, have full and unrestricted movement of each control without interference from clothing, the cockpit structure, or the flight controls.

B7.3.3.1 Each 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. At least one of the two transceivers 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 each transceiver must be 10 watts nominal value (original design specification). Each 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, at least one 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:

Technisonics: TDFM-136, TDFM-136A, TDFM-136/NV, TDFM-136A/NV, TDFM-136B, TDFM-136B/NV.

Cobham: (formerly NAT) NPX-136D-070.

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/AMD-17 in the exhibits.

B7.3.4.2 One weatherproof, external, broadband antenna covering the 150174 MHz band, with associated RG58A/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 CI177 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 Radio DPH/EPH/GPH series radio through the MS 3112E-12-10S connector in the aircraft. The FS/OAS drawing A-15 in Exhibit 6 is provided as one possible interface.

B7.3.5 One satellite-based aircraft tracking hardware compatible with the government’s Automated Flight Following (AFF) Program (https://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. For questions about current compatibility requirements contact the AFF Program Manager listed under contacts at https://www.aff.gov.

B7.3.5.1 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.

B7.3.5.2 AFF communications must be fully operational in all 50 states. Contractors working in or accepting dispatches to the State of Alaska, Southern Canada, or Western Canada must have an AFF system capable of being tracked in these locations at all times. Not all manufacturers’ AFF equipment communication links will operate effectively in all geographic areas.

B7.3.5.3 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 contact the Government of system changes, scheduled maintenance, and planned service outages

B7.3.5.4 Registration contact information, a web accessible feedback form, and additional information is available at: https://www.aff.gov.

B7.3.5.5 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. As a minimum, the operational check must consist of confirming the aircraft being tested is displayed in AFF (indicating it is currently transmitting data to AFF) and that all information displayed in AFF is current. A username and password are required to access AFF. Log on to the AFF website at https://www.aff.gov to request a username and password.

B7.3.5.6 If AFF becomes inoperable/unreliable the aircraft may, at the discretion of the Government, remain available for service utilizing radio/voice system for flight following. The contractor will return the AFF system to full operational capability within 72 hours after the inoperative/unreliable unit is first discovered as defective.

B7.3.5.7 This clause incorporates Specification Section Supplement available at: https://www.aff.gov/contractspecs with the same force and affect as if they were presented as full text herein.

B7.3.6 Satellite Telephone System (SatPhone)

B7.3.6.1 The aircraft must be equipped with one Iridium based SatPhone system whose installation is FAA-approved. The SatPhone handset or remote dialer must be cockpitmounted in a location convenient for use by both the pilot and copilot/observer (Sattalk or equivalent).

B7.3.6.2 The SatPhone must be permanently interfaced to the aircraft’s audio control systems in such a manner that, although access to the handset/dialer may be limited to the cockpit occupants, it may be used via any of the four required positions in the aircraft in the same manner as the aircraft’s radios.

B7.3.6.3 The SatPhone must include a “Speed Dial” capability, which may be pre-programmed with a minimum of six telephone numbers via the cockpit-mounted handset/dialer.

B7.3.6.4 The SatPhone must be equipped with a TSO-C129a L-band antenna mounted atop the fuselage in such a manner as to provide the greatest possible view of the overhead hemisphere.

B7.3.6.5 The SatPhone may be integrated into the AFF system above, either using the same Iridium communicator or having a separate Iridium communicator. If the SatPhone’s communicator is also utilized for AFF, brief interruptions of AFF position reports are acceptable. In this case, the Contractor must ensure that all flight crew personnel are instructed regarding the possible conflict.

B7.4 Navigational Systems

B7.4.1 One permanently installed, panel-mounted global positioning system (GPS-1) utilizing an approved, fixed external aircraft antenna and powered by the aircraft electrical system or an aviation portable GPS unit (Garmin GPSMap 296/396/496 or equivalent) provided the portable unit is securely mounted, is equipped with a remote (i.e., not part of the GPS unit) antenna, and presents information from an overhead orientation (not a drive-along-the-road type), and is powered by the aircraft electrical system. The GPS (permanently installed or portable) must utilize the WGS-84 datum and reference latitude and longitude coordinates in the degrees/minutes/decimal minutes (DM) mode for aircraft positioning. The primary GPS must also have near real-time weather downlink capability.

B7.4.2 A GPS data port connector must be installed for the purposes of external data retrieval by a GIS laptop computer from the above GPS. The connector must be a DB-9F type D sub-connector, must be wired for RS-232C serial format for laptop computers (pin 2=transmit data, pin 3=receive data [if applicable], and pin 5=ground) and must be mounted in a location convenient to the front seat observer. The contractor must also furnish an adapter cable to interface the DB-9F Type D sub-connector to a USB-A connector.

B7.5 Audio Systems

B7.5.1 Two separate audio control systems (which may be combined in a single unit) for the pilot and co-pilot to select receiver audio outputs and transmitter microphone/push to talk (PTT) audio inputs for all installed radios and public address (PA) systems. Each system must also allow the pilot and copilot to independently adjust both the intercommunications system (ICS) and the receiver audio output levels.

B7.5.1.1 Transmitter selection and operation. Separate transmitter selection controls must be provided for both the pilot’s and copilot’s microphone/PTT inputs.