Questions_and_Answers_0002.pdf

Questions and Answers

1. In section D5.1, it states, “The SF 1449 included in the hard copy must be the original signature.” Since the submissions are electronic, would the Government please confirm that the SF 1449 can be submitted electronically?

Answer: D5.1 was changed in amendment 001. D5.1 SF 1449, Solicitation/Contract/Order for Commercial Items, completed and signed. Original/wet signatures or electronic/digital signatures that have a date and time stamp are acceptable. The SF-1449 needs to be submitted electronically.

2. In section A, the Government stated, “The annual EU period is for 180 days beginning on April 1st and ending on September 27th.” If the period of performance start date is February 1, 2022, does the Government require the aircraft to be fully modified and ready on Feb 1 or April 1?

Answer: The aircraft needs to be ready for inspection by February 01, 2022. This is in accordance with 52.212-4(a) inspection/Acceptance: The inspection will be scheduled to commence as early as 60 days and not later than five days (excluding weekends and holidays) prior to the established reporting date, unless otherwise mutually agreed upon by the COTR and the Contractor.

3. In Exhibit E-1, the Government requires a list of documentation. If the aircraft will be purchased after contract award, does the Government still require this information?

Answer: For aircraft not in possession of the offeror, provide as much of the required documentation as possible. A detailed timeline for aircraft purchase and modification is required per Exhibit E-1.

4. In Exhibit E-1, the Government requires a tail number. If the aircraft will be purchased after contract award, will the Government allow the offeror to insert “Provided After Award”?

Answer: Per Section D10.1.2, “The proposed aircraft(s) (and any proposed aircraft modifications) will become binding if an offer is accepted for award. The offeror shall include a completed Aircraft Questionnaire and Maintenance Form (Exhibit E-1) and supporting documentation for each offered aircraft to be utilized under the contract.” For the requirement of binding the proposed aircraft to the award, a tail number and/or serial number of an aircraft is required.

5. In Exhibit E-1, the Government requires a tail number. Are signed purchase agreements required?

Answer: A signed purchase agreement is an acceptable method of providing the tail number and /or serial number of the aircraft being proposed.

6. In section B.7.7, the Government lists the following requirements: B7.7.1 Garmin G1000 flight deck or B7.7.2 Garmin GTN650/750 GPS/NAV/Comm. Would the Government consider another avionics package?

Answer: As stated in the J&A Other then Full and Open Competition: There is a safety benefit to the Government when pilots can focus on one aircraft and its operations. ASM pilots must memorize standard and emergency operating procedures for any aircraft they fly. If pilots are only operating one, make and model of aircraft over the entire 180-day wildfire season it eliminates the need to learn/memorize operational procedures for multiple aircraft. The aircraft avionics should be as specified in B7 Avionics Requirements.