B09_SA_Amendment_2_140D8021R0010_0002.pdf

(x)

140D8021R0010 x x

1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted ; or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO BE

RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR

OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted , such change may be made by letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

x

Boise ID 83706

D47

Suite 200 300 East Mallard Drive Acquisition Services Directorate Interior Business Center, AQD

D47

Boise ID 83706 300 E. Mallard Dr., Suite 200 Division 4/ Branch 4 Interior Business Center, AQD

08/27/20210002

13. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS. IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required) is not extended.is extended, Items 8 and 15, and returning

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended , by one of the following methods: (a) By completing

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

FACILITY CODE CODE

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

CODE

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., street, county, State and ZIP Code)

7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6)CODE 6. ISSUED BY

PAGE OF PAGES

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.3. EFFECTIVE DATE2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

1. CONTRACT ID CODE

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

08/13/2021

CHECK ONE A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority) appropriation data, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not is required to sign this document and return __________________ copies to the issuing office.

ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

The purpose of this amendment is to correct Exhibit E-3 Aircraft Information Form to correspond to B6.21.2. Cargo Basket - (min 72 inches)

Period of Performance: 03/01/2022 to 02/28/2027

Contact Information: janice_haener@ibc.doi.gov for questions.

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

15C. DATE SIGNED 16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR 16C. DATE SIGNED

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer)

Janice Haener

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 11/2016)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

Previous edition unusable

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9 A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Solicitation 140D8021R0010 Mesa Verde National Park

Table of Contents

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

SECTION A – REQUIREMENTS AND PRICING

A1.ITEM REQUIREMENT:

A2. PRICING WORKSHEET

A3. ADDITIONAL PAY ITEMS SCHEDULE

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

PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

B8 FUEL SERVICING VEHICLE EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS (REQUIRED FOR LOWER 48 STATES OPERATIONS ONLY)

B9 PILOT REQUIREMENTS AND AUTHORITY

B10 PILOT QUALIFICATIONS

B11 PERSONNEL DUTY LIMITATIONS

B12 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS’ DUTY AND FLIGHT LIMITATIONS

B13 MECHANIC REQUIREMENTS

B14 MECHANIC QUALIFICATIONS

B15 MECHANIC DUTY LIMITATIONS

B16 FUEL SERVICING VEHICLE DRIVER REQUIREMENT AND QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED FOR LOWER 48 STATES OPERATIONS ONLY) 32

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 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

CONTRACT CLAUSES

52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

52.211-11 LIQUIDATED DAMAGES-SUPPLIES, SERVICES, OR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (SEPT 2000)

52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS – COMMERCIAL ITEMS – ADDENDA

52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS-COMMERCIAL ITEMS.

(JUL 2021)

52.216-18 ORDERING (AUG 2020)

52.216-19 ORDER LIMITATIONS (OCT 1995)

52.216-22 INDEFINITE QUANTITY (OCT 1995)

52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

52.217-9 -- OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000)

52.222-42 -- STATEMENT OF EQUIVALENT RATES FOR FEDERAL HIRES (MAY 2014)

1452.201-70 AUTHORITIES AND DELEGATIONS (SEP 2011)

ADDENDA TO DIAR 1452.201-70 COTR/PI/SAFETY MANAGER & ADVISOR

1452.203-70 RESTRICTIONS ON ENDORSEMENTS (JUL 1996)

1452.228-71 AIRCRAFT AND GENERAL PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE (MAR 1989)

GENERAL CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

C1 INVOICES - AIRCRAFT USE REPORT (AUR)

C2 ELECTRONIC INVOICING AND PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS – INVOICE PROCESSING PLATFORM (IPP) (APR 2013)

C3 CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

C4 AIRCRAFT INSURANCE

C5 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE

C6 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM (DEC 2015)

C7 PREWORK MEETING

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

C8 PERSONNEL CONDUCT

C9 SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION

C10 MISHAPS

C11 ECONOMIC PRICE ADJUSTMENT – FUEL (LOWER 48 ONLY)

CONTRACT PERIOD AND RENEWAL

C12 CONTRACT PERIOD

C13 EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

C14 OPTIONAL EXTENSION OF EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

AVAILABILITY REQUIREMENTS

C15 AVAILABILITY REQUIREMENTS

C16 SCHEDULE OF OPERATIONS AND REACTION TIME

C17 MAINTENANCE DURING AVAILABILITY PERIOD

C18 UNAVAILABILITY AND DAMAGES

MEASUREMENTS AND PAYMENTS

C19 DAILY AVAILABILITY

C20 FLIGHT TIME

C21 MOBILIZATION/DEMOBILIZATION

C22 ON CALL USE OUTSIDE THE EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD/EXTENSION

C23 ADDITIONAL PAY ITEMS (FROM SCHEDULE OF ITEMS)

C24 GOVERNMENT MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES

SECTION C EXHIBITS

SECTION D – INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS AND EVALUATION OF OFFERS

D1 GENERAL INFORMATION

D2 NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (NAICS) CODE AND SMALL BUSINESS SIZE STANDARD

INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS--COMMERCIAL ITEMS (52.212-1 JUN 2020) TAILORED

D3 OFFERS

D4 OFFER CONTENTS

D5 PERIOD FOR ACCEPTANCE OF OFFERS

D6 LATE SUBMISSIONS, MODIFICATIONS, REVISIONS, AND WITHDRAWALS OF OFFERS

EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

D7 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL ITEMS 52.212-2 (OCT 2014) (TAILORED)

D8 EVALUATION FACTORS

D9 TECHNICAL CAPABILITY

D10 ORGANIZATIONAL SAFETY

D11 PAST PERFORMANCE

D12 TOTAL EVALUATED PRICE (TEP)

D13 TRADEOFF ANALYSIS AND CONTRACTOR SELECTION

D14 INQUIRIES REGARDING THE SOLICITATION

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

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

52.203-98 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH ENTITIES THAT REQUIRE CERTAIN INTERNAL CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENTS—

REPRESENTATION (FEB 2015)

52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT

(OCT 2020)

52.204-26 COVERED TELECOMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT OR SERVICES-REPRESENTATION (OCT 2020) 52.209-2 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH INVERTED DOMESTIC CORPORATIONS – REPRESENTATION (NOV 2015)

52.209-5 CERTIFICATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (AUG 2020)

52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (OCT 2018)

52.209-10 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH INVERTED DOMESTIC CORPORATIONS (NOV 2015) 52.209-11 REPRESENTATION BY CORPORATIONS REGARDING DELINQUENT TAX LIABILITY OR A FELONY CONVICTION UNDER ANY

FEDERAL LAW (FEB 2016)

52.212-3 –OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS-COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FEB 2021)

52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

52.229-11 TAX ON CERTAIN FOREIGN PROCUREMENTS—NOTICE AND REPRESENTATION (JUN 2020)

52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (SEP 2006) (DEVIATION)

1452.215-71 USE AND DISCLOSURE OF PROPOSAL INFORMATION - DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (APR 1984)

SECTION E EXHIBITS

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

AC Advisory Circular AD Airworthiness Directive AMS Aviation Management System A&P airframe and powerplant 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 CFR Code of Federal Regulations CO Contracting Officer COR Contracting Officer’s Representative COTR Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative CFR Code of Federal Regulations 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 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

IAT interagency aviation training IBC Interior Business Center ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization ICS intercom system IFR instrument flight rules IP Institute of Petroleum IPP Invoice Processing Platform MMSB Manufacturer’s Mandatory Service Bulletins NFPA National Fire Protection Association NTSB National Transportation Safety Board NWCG National Wildfire Coordinating Group OAS Office of Aviation Services 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 RFP Request for Proposals RPM revolutions per minute SFI Safety Foundation Incorporated STEP Single-skid, Toe-In and Hover Exit/Entry Pro-cedures TBO time between overhaul TERO Tribal Employment Rights Ordinances TSO technical service order UL Underwriter’s Laboratory USDA United States Department of Agriculture VFR visual flight rules VNE velocity never exceed VOX voice activation VSWR voltage standing wave ratio

SECTION A – PRICING AND REQUIREMENTS

SECTION A – REQUIREMENTS AND PRICING

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

The intent of this solicitation is to obtain fully Contractor operated and maintained exclusive use light helicopter ser-vices in support of Government fire suppression and natural resource missions for the National Park Service (NPS) in Mesa Verde National Park, Hesperus, Colorado. This contract has a Base Year with four 1-year Option Years.

A1. ITEM REQUIREMENT:

ITEM DESCRIPTION

Aircraft Required: One light helicopter as specified in Section B.

Crew Compliment Required: Pilot-in-Command (PIC) with relief pilot, fuel service vehicle driver with relief driver, and mechanic with relief mechanic. The Contractor may provide a me-chanic that is also the fuel service vehicle driver.

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

Minimum Helicopter Requirements:

Seating: Five (5) insured passenger seats not including pilot, but including copilot seat in an aircraft, normally single pilot operated.

Payload: Non-jettisonable payload (HOGE) of 900 pounds at 25 degrees Celsius at 7,000 feet pressure altitude using a pilot weight of 200 pounds, a 25-pound survival kit and for 40 minutes of flight plus 20 minutes reserve.

Powerplant: Turbine engine Certification Basis: 14 CFR 27 Airspeed: 130 Knots at 7000 feet and 25 degrees Celsius Landing gear: Skid Type Aft Cabin Doors Equipped with one sliding door installed on side opposite pilot station

Target Helicopter Requirements:

Performance Arriel 2D Engine Enhancements: BLR FastFin® or equivalent system

Dual Hydraulics

Payload: Non-jettisonable payload (HOGE) of 1000 pounds at 25 degrees Celsius at 7,000 feet pressure altitude using a pilot weight of 200 pounds, a 25-pound survival kit and for 40 minutes of flight plus 20 minutes reserve.

PIC position Left Seat PIC

Aft Cabin Doors Equipped with right and left side sliding doors

Cargo Basket Greater than 83 inches with a minimum load capacity of 300 lbs.

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 Exhibits along with the offered aircraft’s applicable Hover Ceiling Charts, weight and balance report and equipment list that you provide.

A2. PRICING WORKSHEET

A2.1 Schedule for Mesa Verde National Park, CO Offerors shall complete the shaded areas below.

DESIGNATED BASE

Ft. Lewis Helibase, Hesperus, CO

EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

15 May 2022 thru 19 September 2022 (Estimated)

AIRCRAFT FOR THIS

PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model FAA Registration

OFFEROR NAME

ITEM

00010

DESCRIPTION

PAY

CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

EXTENDED

AMOUNT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE

Daily Availability

AV

Guaranteed

DAYS

Estimated Flight Hours

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT

HOURS

EXTENSION (Optional)

Estimated Flight Hour

Additional pay items (T&M line item)

See Additional Pay Items Schedule

$20,000.00 NTE

ORDERING PERIOD 01 March 2022 thru 28 February 2023 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

15 May 2023 thru 19 September 2023 (Estimated)

00020

(* if ordered)

ORDERING PERIOD 01 March 2023 thru 29 February 2024 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

15 May 2024 thru 19 September 2024 (Estimated)

00030

ORDERING PERIOD 01 March 2024 thru 28 February 2025 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

15 May 2025 thru 19 September 2025 (Estimated)

00040

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE

Price per day for availability

Price per flight hour

Price per day for availability during extension period

Price per flight hour during extension period

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

ORDERING PERIOD 01 March 2025 thru 28 February 2026 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

15 May 2026 thru 19 September 2026 (Estimated)

00050

ORDERING PERIOD 01 March 2026 thru 28 February 2027 ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL

ITEM 00060 – POSSIBLE 6 MONTH EXTENSION (FAR 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES)

In accordance with FAR 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services the unit prices for daily availability and flight rate shall be the same unit price proposed in the year it is exercised. For evaluation purposes only prices will be based on the 4th option year.

ITEM CODE

EXTENDED AMOUNT

Price per day for availability

Price per flight hour during extension period

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

See Additional Pay Items Sched-ule for Rates $ 25,000 (NTE)

ITEM 00060 – ESTIMATED TOTAL, – 6 MONTH EXTENSION

ESTIMATED TOTAL EVALUATED PRICE FOR ITEMS 00010 THROUGH 00060

* An order placed prior to, or during, the Exclusive Use Period, will include 120 days of AV, at a minimum. Not to be confused w/ Minimum Guarantee (see A2.2)

A2.2 Minimum Guarantee. 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) for the first year (base year) of the contract; however, the guaranteed quantity for daily availability is subject to reductions due to unavailability. The estimated quantity for daily availability during any extension of the exclusive use period is not guaranteed and also is subject to reductions due to unavailability. Immediately after contract award, the Contracting Officer will issue a task order obligating the guaranteed minimum amount.

A2.3 Maximum Quantity. The maximum quantity of services the Government may order under the contract is $6,000,000.00. This amount is not a historical or planned expenditure but set in accordance with FAR 16.504(a)(4).

A2.4 Obligation of Funding. The Contracting Officer will issue a separate task order prior to the exclusive use period 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 In Alaska, fuel will be furnished by the Government. All fuel not otherwise furnished by the Government must be purchased by or charged to the Contractor. The purchase must be approved by the Contracting Officer Representa-tive (COR). Fuel related costs shall be recorded as a line entry (i.e., date, fuel charge, dollar amount, and use-item code fuel charge [FC]), shall be used and shall be supported by paid legible, itemized invoices from the supplier.

Certified true copies may be submitted in lieu of the original invoice.

A2.7 Rates for flight hours must 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 SCHEDULE

RATE SCHEDULE FOR ADDITIONAL PAY ITEMS (Time & Material IAW FAR 52.212-4, Alter-nate I)

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

DESCRIPTION PAY

ITEM

Quantity

Extended Standby – Pilot EP Indefinite HOUR $55.00 Extended Standby – Driver Large Truck

ET Indefinite HOUR $39.00

Extended Availability Mechanic EM Indefinite HOUR $55.00 Subsistence Allowance PD Indefinite OVERNIGHT Per FTR Schedule Fuel Servicing Vehicle Mileage SMM Indefinite MILE $ 1.83 Fuel Servicing Vehicle Mileage SML Indefinite MILE $ 2.45 Fuel Servicing Vehicle Mileage SMX Indefinite MILE $ 3.51 Contractor Miscellaneous Costs SC Indefinite EACH Actual Cost

FOR GOVERNMENT USE ONLY – OFFERORS DO NOT WRITE IN THIS AREA

The Contracting Officer will complete at time of award and anytime flight rate adjustments are made.

Lower 48 Only

Make/model of Aircraft Jet Fuel

Requested/Effective Date of Price Adjust-ment

Referenced Fuel Source Locations

Cortez Municipal Airport (KCEZ) (full service) Fuel price obtained from http://www.airnav.com/fuel Phone: 970-565-7458

Base Fuel Price $5.50 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:

http://www.airnav.com/fuel

AIRCRAFT PAYLOAD

THIS TABLE FOR GOVERNMENT USE ONLY – PLEASE DO NOT COMPLETE

Aircraft payload is an element of the offer. The hover-out-of ground effect (HOGE) payload that was confirmed for the aircraft identified on the table below 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 and are based on the HOGE-J payload submitted in the offer and validated by the Government.

Contractor’s Fuel Servicing Vehicle size relative to number of gallons of fuel the vehicle can carry is identified below.

*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 provided in the offer.

GOVERNMENT USE ONLY

CONFIRMED HOGE PAYLOAD AMOUNT

PERFORMANCE REFERENCE (FLIGHT MANUAL

PAGE/CHART)

WATER/RETARDANT BUCKET CAPACITY REQUIRED

1ST Bucket

2ND Bucket

FUEL SERVICE VEHICLE SIZE (IN GALLONS) 1ST VEHICLE 2ND VEHICLE (IF

OFFERED)

SECTION B –TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

SECTION B – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

B1 Scope of Contract B1.1 The intent of this 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 in this solicitation. Missions will include, but are not limited to, short-haul, search and rescue, STEP (single-skid, toe-in, hover entry/exit procedures) landings, fire suppression, fire monitoring, initial attack, prescribed fire and aerial igni-tion, law enforcement limited to nonthreatening surveillance and reconnaissance, and other administrative and related resource activities. Missions may require flight operations to be conducted above 10,000 feet PA but less than 18,000 feet PA for periods of time of up to two-hour duration. Contractors must ensure compliance with applicable FAA regu-latory requirements concerning the use of oxygen. The Government will direct aircraft to support its missions and objec-tives.

B1.2 Operations will be conducted in accordance with applicable FAA regulations, the NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations (NSHO) (formerly IHOG) and the Interagency Aviation Transport of Hazardous Material and other documents referenced in specific sections of the contract. The NSHO and the Interagency Aviation Transport of Hazardous Material 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 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.

B1.4 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.

B1.5 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.

B1.6 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, passengers, and cargo).

B2.2 A Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 135 Air Carrier certificate. These aircraft must be carried on the list required by 14 CFR, Part 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 mini-mum.

B2.4 A 14 CFR, Part 137, "Agricultural Aircraft Operations" certificate.

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

https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides

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 incor-porated by reference; (3) 14 CFR incorporated by reference; (4) aircraft manufacturer's specifications; and (5) other documents incorporated by reference.

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 Lap Belt and Shoulder Harness Conditions Exhibit (see Section C) for examples of lap belt and shoul-der harness conditions that are not acceptable.

B5.4 Military or other similar low visibility paint schemes are unacceptable. The Contracting Officer’s Technical Rep-resentative (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 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.

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 Utility folding aft cabin seating for easy access to a flat cabin floor equipped with tie downs for carriage of bulky cargo.

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

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

B6.14 Personnel access steps for aircraft with a floor height greater than 18 inches to ensure safe entrance and exit from each door.

B6.15 Locking cap(s) on all fuel inlet ports.

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 Main rotor brake.

B6.19 Snow/tundra pads (Note: To be installed when requested by the Government.)

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.

For external:

B6.21.2 Cargo basket. An externally side-mounted basket constructed with tubular frame and expanded metal incorporat-ing a locking lid to secure cargo. Basket must have a minimal length of 72 inches and a minimum load capacity of 250 lbs.

Basket/rack must be quick attach/detach.

All construction methods must be as prescribed by Advisory Circulars 43.13-1B and 43.13-2B or other FAA approval.

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

B6.23 An accessory power source consisting of an MS 3112E-12-3S three-pin connector, accessible in the aft 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 A convex mirror for the pilot to observe the sling load.

B6.27 One keeperless cargo hook (On-Board Systems keeperless cargo hook or equal) 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 shall incorporate both an electrically activated release and a secondary mechanically activated release. The electric release shall be acti-vated by a switch on the cyclic. The switch must be guarded/protected to minimize the possibility of inadvertent acti-vation. 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, visible to the PIC.

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 capa-bility (HOGE-J) of the contract aircraft at 5,000 feet pressure altitude (PA), 30˚ Celsius with a 200-pound pilot, 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.

B6.30 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, 30˚ Celsius with a 200-pound pilot, 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.

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 maxi-mum lifting capability of the helicopter beginning at 5,000 feet PA at 30˚ Celsius extending upward to 7,000 feet PA at 30˚ Celsius and above.

B6.31 A remote operating switch for the water/retardant bucket and/or 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 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 unless the connector is otherwise secured.

B6.32.2 This connector must have multiple circuit capacity sufficient to provide power and control for Contractor-fur-nished 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 OAS Drawing A-16 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 Sec-tion 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.

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)

B6.34 Short-haul configuration. Helicopter to be equipped for short-haul operations that must meet the following spec-ifications:

B6.34.1 Sliding or hinged door on side which can be opened while in flight. Door locks must be provided to ensure that the door remains in closed and open positions. Doors may also be removed from the helicopter to meet these require-ments provided the aircraft manual authorizes such removal.

B6.34.2 Windows available for the spotter to view the surrounding area without the necessity of opening doors.

B6.34.3 Dual external airframe mounted cargo hook system certified for Human External Cargo (HEC) operations.

B6.34.4 A Supplemental Type Certificate (STC’d) rappel fixture (used for short-haul spotter and aerial recon anchor) appropriate to the make and model offered. This anchor must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for continued airworthiness.

B6.34.4.1 If an AS350/H125 series aircraft is offered, a hoist operators anchor point must be installed per section 2.B.2.c and figure (2) on page 23 in the AS350 Service Bulletin No. 25.00.15. This anchor point will be used in lieu of the rappel fixture for the short-haul spotter’s safety harness tether.

B6.35 Internal Litter Kit (Note: Fixed litter kit provisions must be installed. Actual litter to be installed when requested by the Government.)

B6.36 Helicopter flooring must be light weight, not fabric, and easily cleaned. (Note: Bare metal floor with non-slip protective covering is permissible.)

B6.37 Alaska specific equipment requirements. Refer to Alaska Supplement Exhibit (See Exhibit 12).

B6.37.1 The tundra pads will be inspected and must be together with the aircraft for the initial inspection and all subsequent contract renewal inspections.

B6.37.2 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 43.13-1B Chapter 11, "Aircraft Electrical Systems," and Chapter 12, "Aircraft Avionics Systems”; AC 43.13-2B Chapter 1, "Struc-tural 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 are monitoring different frequencies. So-called “Transmit Interlock” functions shall not be used with communication trans-ceivers.

B7.3 Communications Systems. All installed transceivers must be placarded with designations matching the transmit-ter/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 registra-tion 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 transceiver, with a minimum of 760 channels covering

118.000 to 136.975 MHz. The transceiver must have channels selectable in no greater than 25 kHz increments and a minimum of 5 watts carrier output power. The transceiver’s operational controls must be mounted so they are readily https://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/docs/avionics/FSOAS_A24F.pdf 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 Two P25-compliant VHF-FM transceivers. Each transceiver (FM-1, FM-2) 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 unre-stricted 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. Each 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 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 facil-itate 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 conven-iently located for ease of use. The Contractor must also furnish appropriate cables of adequate length, and/or any nec-essary 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 MS3112E12-10S 10-pin connector conveniently located for use by the observer/copilot, and utilizing the contact assignments as specified by drawing FS/OAS A-17 in Exhibit 8.

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 micro-phone 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 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 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 opera-tional 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

B7.3.5.6 If AFF becomes…