70T05026R5900N005 Questions and Answers Set 1.pdf

Question Number

RFP Section RFP Paragraph RFP Page Number

RFP Question TSA Response

1 N/A N/A N/A Is there any incumbent/recompete or this is a brand-new project? If yes, could you please provide us with their award number or even if the customer bought similar services in the past. This is a brand new requirement and the potential airports currently have federal staff.

70T05026R59 00N005.pdf

I.2.6.6 Financial Capability & Business Stability and Compliance (Volume

VI) 51

Section I.2.6.6 Financial Capability & Business Stability and Compliance (Volume VI) has multiple footnote references (i.e., [1]) but there does not seem to be a footnote in the document that corresponds to that reference.

The same footnote is referenced 4 times in this section. Please provide the footnote reference, or explain where it might be found. Footnotes were included in error. Change will be reflected in an forthcoming amendment

3 RFP I.2.5.1 45-48

Per the solicitation "All Phase 1 volumes must be submitted before the proposal due date and time indicated on the solicitation cover sheet." Will the Government confirm that only Track 1, Phase 1 is due on 7/23/26 and that Track 1, Phase 2 and Track 2 will only be due upon Offeror downselect?

Yes, only Phase 1 volumes must be submitted before the proposal due date and time indicated on the solicitated cover sheet. Individual task order RFPs will be released after Phase 1 evaluation.

4 RFP I.2.5.1.E 49 Will the Government allow font smaller than 10 pt for graphics as long as legible? No.

5 RFP I.2.5.1 45

Will the Government allow Offeror's to submit an Executive Summary for Phase 1 to introduce the Offeror and overall approach to Gold+ to enable a comprehensive and focused addressing of Factor 1 and Factor 2 requirements? No.

I.2.5 Proposal Format and Submission I.2.5.1 Page 45

I.2.5.1 indicates: Proposals shall be electronically submitted via email to both POCs listed above, no later than by July 23, 2026, 1:00 pm EDT Eastern Time. Could you please confirm that only the Phase 1 response is due July 23, 2026, 1:00 pm EDT Eastern Time? Confirmed.

7 I.2.5.1 I.2.5.1 45

The solicitation references both a two-phase and three-phase evaluation approach in different sections. Please clarify whether the evaluation will consist of two phases (Technical/Past Performance, then Price) or three distinct phases, and provide the definitive evaluation sequence.

The solicitation is a two phase process, Phase 1 provide an advisory down select followed by Phase 2 awards (IDIQ/Initial orders).

8 Section B B.1 4 Please provide a comprehensive list of all airports and TSA facilities currently within scope of the Gold+ IDIQ, including any facilities that may be added during the ordering period. This information will be released at the task order level.

9 Section B B.2 4 Please clarify the anticipated mix of FFP, T&M, and Cost-Reimbursable task orders. What percentage of total contract value is expected under each contract type?

All task orders will be firm-fixed price with a cost-reimbursable CLIN for TSA directed travel.

10 PWS 1.5.2.1 8

Is there a minimum contract guarantee or minimum order quantity for IDIQ awardees? If so, what is the guaranteed minimum value per awardee? The minimum guarantee is $5000 for all IDIQ awardees.

11 Section B B.3 5 Please clarify how Aviation Transportation Security Act (ATSA) requirements affect pricing structures and whether separate labor categories are required for ATSA-covered positions.

Offerors must adhere to ATSA minimum compensation. Required pricing templates will be released with each individual task order RFP. There are four ATSA-covered screening labor categories.

12 Section H H.3 27 What specific financial documentation is required to demonstrate financial capability? Please clarify acceptable forms of evidence (audited financials, bank letters, bonding capacity, etc.).

Please refer to I.2.6.6 Financial Capability & Business Stability and Compliance (Volume

VI)

13 Section H H.6 28 Is there a maximum percentage of work that may be subcontracted? Does the limitation apply at the IDIQ level or individual task order level?

Subcontracting requirements are defined in the Request for Proposal (RFP), the vendor is required to develop, submit, and adhere to the subcontracting plan requirements outlined in the RFP.

14 Section H H.7 31 Please clarify small business subcontracting goals and whether separate goals apply to each socioeconomic category (SDVOSB, HUBZone, WOSB, 8(a)).

Subcontracting goals are in the "Small Business Subcontracting/Utilization Plan" under section I.2.6.6.

15 Section H H.8 32 Will proposals leveraging SBA Mentor-Protégé arrangements receive evaluation credit? If so, under which factor? No.

Gold+ 70T05026R5900N005 Questions and Answers Set 1

16 Section I I.2 82 Please provide the complete list of Key Personnel positions required. For each position, clarify minimum qualifications, education requirements, and whether substitution is permitted post-award.

Please review PWS section 1.4.2.2 Key Personnel for this information. As specified, further detail will be shared at the task order level as applicable.

17 Section H I.2 TBD What is the maximum page length for Key Personnel resumes? Should resumes address specific evaluation criteria or follow a prescribed format?

Resumes do not count to overall page count. Highlighting the relevant information for the contract scope; in line with best industry practice.

18 PWS 3 21

Please describe expectations for workforce transition, including whether incumbent employees must be offered right of first refusal and applicable Service Contract Act implications. Current federal employees must be offered first right of refusal. See FAR 52.207-3.

19 PWS 1.7.1.1 17

Please provide the current inventory of Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) that will be provided to the contractor, including equipment age, condition, and maintenance history.

The current inventory of government furnished equipment (GFE), including details on equipment age, condition, and maintenance history, will be provided at the task order level for each individual airport. TSA will provide the last 12 months of historical maintenance performance to include age, operational availability, number of relevant critical and non-critical failures, number of non relevant critical and non-critical failures and parts usage.

20 PWS 1.6.2.7 17

What Government Furnished Information (GFI) and data will be provided? Please clarify timing of GFI delivery relative to task order start dates.

The Government will provide government furnished information (GFI) and data as applicable to each task order, which may include program documentation, policies and standards, architecture and interface artifacts, performance data, tool and system access, and required templates. Core GFI will be provided as early as practicable following task order award and in any case prior to the contractor’s need-by date to support performance. Task-order-specific GFI and any updates will be provided on a schedule coordinated with the contractor and documented in individual task orders, subject to availability and applicable security or access requirements..

PWS 1.5.2.1 9

Please describe contractor access requirements and responsibilities for the Access Control List (ACL) system, including required training and certification.

ACL is an acronym for the acceptable capabilities list, it is the official list of approved screening equipment and technologies that third-parties may donate or bail to the agency for security operations. https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/capability-acceptance-process

22 PWS 1,4,2,3 6

What security clearance levels are required for Key Personnel at IDIQ award versus task order award? Are interim clearances acceptable?

Facility Security Secret Clearance is required at both the IDIQ and TO level. See Attachment 1 Performance Work Statement section 1.3.1.2

23 PWS 1.2 2

Please provide the current Transportation Security Equipment (TSE) inventory list, including equipment types, quantities by location, and expected refresh schedule during the contract period.

This information will be provided at the task order level for each individual airport, detailing equipment types and quantities by location. The expected refresh schedule should be proposed by industry as part of their submission, and each approach will be evaluated by TSA during the proposal review process.

Section H H.10 34 Please provide the complete cybersecurity requirements, including NIST framework compliance levels, FedRAMP requirements for cloud services, and incident reporting timelines.

This information will be provided at the task order level for each individual airport, and may vary by equipment inventory. Generally, compliance with the risk management framework requires implementation of NIST security control families or FedRAMP certified cloud services.

25 Section H H.11 35 What Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) handling requirements apply? Please clarify marking, storage, transmission, and destruction requirements.

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) handling requirements—including marking, storage, transmission, and destruction—are specified in the applicable Homeland Security Acquisition Regulations (HSAR) clauses provided with the contract, as well as in the contract’s terms and conditions. TSA contracts will also include a “TSA-RQMTS Sensitive Security Information” provision outlining the safeguarding of SSI, and may require SSI training within 60 days of contract execution. Offerors and contractors must follow all contract-specified requirements, complete necessary training, and ensure proper vetting and use of DHS NDAs (Form 11000-6). The types of CUI and specific handling instructions will be identified in the contract PWS or terms and conditions, and the SSI program office will serve as the primary point of contact for CUI-related questions. Additional best practices and

26 Section H H.12 38 Do any services under this IDIQ involve ITAR-controlled technical data or defense articles? If so, please identify affected task areas and compliance requirements.

TSA does not anticipate any services under this IDIQ involving International Traffic of Arms Regulations-Controlled Technical Data or Defense Articles.

27 Section H H.13 39 Please provide specific insurance coverage requirements, including minimum coverage amounts for general liability, professional liability, cyber liability, and workers compensation. See page seven of the RFP. Insurance requirements defined at the Task Order level

28 Section H H.14 TBD The solicitation indicates certain permits and licenses are TBD. Please clarify which permits/licenses the contractor must obtain versus those provided by the Government. Defined at the Task Order level.

29 PWS 3.1 202

For task orders where place of performance is listed as TBD, what is the anticipated geographic distribution? Will contractors be required to maintain regional presence? Specific airport locations will be released at the Task Order level.

30 PWS 3.2 22

What percentage of work may be performed remotely versus on-site at TSA/airport facilities? Does this vary by labor category or task type? All work will be performed on-site at the TSA/airport facility for each Task Order

31 I.2.1 I.2.1 42

The solicitation specifies a 50MB file size limit for email submissions. Given the complexity of required volumes, please confirm whether multiple emails are permitted or if an alternative submission method is available for larger files.

Multiple emails are acceptable to provide all required information/documentation required in the RFP.

32 I.2.2 I.2.2 42 The solicitation instructions reference solicitation number formatting for email subject lines. Please confirm the exact required format and whether the number shown in examples contains a typographical error. No specific format required.

Will TSA offer site visits to current performance locations prior to proposal submission? If so, how should offerors request participation?

Site visits will be available at the task order solicitation phase. Offerors can request participation at that time.

Given the scope and complexity of this procurement, will TSA consider extending the proposal due date? If questions result in significant amendments, will additional time be provided? No

Please clarify the recency requirement for past performance references. Must contracts be completed within the last 3 years, or are ongoing contracts with 12+ months of performance acceptable? Ongoing contracts are acceptable within the stated last three years.

What criteria will TSA use to determine relevancy of past performance? Please clarify whether subcontract experience will be rated equally to prime contract experience.

Relevancy is determined by recenecy, scope and size. Offerors may submit information on key management personnel, and work performed as part of a team or joint venture, and other previous reincarnation of its current organization. References (or summaries) shall include work done by the applicable segment of the firm (division, group, and unit) relevant to this solicitation, and not the firm in general. The offeror shall clearly define what entity performed the work if other than the prime contractor’s past performance is submitted.

37 Section B CLIN 0002 4 Please clarify how CLIN 0002 is to be priced and structured, including the basis for pricing (e.g., fixed-price, cost-reimbursement, or hybrid) and any required cost breakdowns.

Please refer to Attachment 41 Gold Performance Metrics – Incentives tab for details. As noted in the RFP, the combined total of the FFP and incentives may not exceed the overall contract ceiling. Any required cost breakdowns should follow the instructions in the solicitation.

38 Section B CLIN 0002A 4 Please clarify how incentive amounts under CLIN 0002A are to be reconciled and invoiced, including the timing of incentive calculations and supporting documentation requirements.

Incentive amounts under CLIN 0002A will be calculated based on the contractor’s performance against specified metrics at the intervals defined in the contract (e.g., monthly or quarterly). Supporting documentation submitted with each invoice must demonstrate that all required metrics were met throughout the entire performance period being invoiced.

39 Section B TBD 4 Please clarify how the $12.9B IDIQ ceiling is allocated across CLINs, tracks, and performance periods, and whether there are individual track or CLIN ceilings. $12.9B is the IDIQ ordering ceiling and is not allocated to a specific CLIN.

40 I.2.7.2 2 59 How will FCE account for technology?

FCE is the contract ceiling for each task order/ BPA award for Gold+. All awards will be at or below this amount.

41 I.2.7.2 2 59 Will TSA and/or the airport also outline what technology upgrade/enhancements required within the task order?

TSA may specify certain technology upgrade or enhancement requirements within the task order based on operational needs or regulatory standards; however, contractors are also expected to propose technology modernization plans as part of their submissions, which will be evaluated for alignment with TSA objectives and airport priorities.

42 52.212-2 2 64 Will TSA require the contractor to replace existing technology at the time said technology is at end of life at both checkpoint and checked baggage screening locations?

Under the Gold+ vision to accelerate innovation and the adoption of new technology, TSA expects contractors to proactively propose and implement technology enhancements rather than waiting for equipment to reach end of life. The industry is encouraged to drive the pace of modernization, and each contractor’s approach to technology refresh and upgrades will be evaluated as part of the proposal review process.

43 1.2.5. 1.2.5.1.B. 47

Track 1 & 2, Factor 1 Cost Efficiency states "Proposed prices must be entirely compatible with the technical quote and consistent with the pricing requirements listed in this solicitation."

_ In which section are the pricing requirements listed in this solicitation? (e.g. Document, Section, Page) Pricing requirements will be included with Phase 2.

44 1.2.5. 1.2.5.1.B. 47

No page restriction, pricing portion (excel sheet) shall be completed and submitted.

Is TSA providing the excel spreadsheet or are we developing our own? Task order excel spreadsheet will be released after the Phase 1 Evaluation.

45 PWS 1.5.2.1

Turnkey Tech Solutions

PWS Page 8-9

TSA discusses solutions that are on the ACL or have been tested and approved by TSA for use. Would this include equipment that has been certified but not qualified by TSA? An example would be EDS equipment that has been certified and deployed worldwide, but not on the EDS QPL which as not been open for a few years.

Would TSA consider equipment that has been certified by ECAC and deployed operationally outside of the U.S.?

TSA will only accept equipment that has met TSA’s standards and is listed on the acceptable capability list (ACL) or approved by TSA through established testing processes. Equipment that has been certified but not qualified by TSA, including systems certified by ECAC and deployed operationally outside the U.S., will not be accepted without further assessments.

The baggage qualified products list (QPL) is expected to reopen in FY28, and TSA may work with Gold+ vendors on test site designation to support future qualification efforts.

1.2.5, 1.2.6 and 1.2.7

Proposal Format and Submission, Phase 1 and 2: General Vol Reqs 45-49

Can TSA provide a more complete definition of the Tracks and Phases? e.g. is Track 1 just to achieve the IDIQ qualification and Track 2 is focused on airport specific requirements? What is the timing for submittal of Phase 2;

do any or all the volumns need to be submitted with the Phase 1 documents on July 23, 2026?

Phase 1 will result in an advisory down select and then an amendment to the solicitation with the Phase 2 airport specific RFP. Phase 2 documents are not to be submitted with Phase

1. Phase 2 Track 1 is to achieve the IDIQ qualification and Phase 2 Track 2 will be for specific airport task order awards.

47 Section B B.1 4

Given all of the unknowns including hardware developments over 10 years that may not even exist right now (or may not currently be on the TSA's ACL), how can Offerors propose Firm Fixed Price pricing given the limitations stated in FAR 16.202-2?

TSA recognizes the challenges of proposing firm fixed price (FFP) pricing for a 10-year period given potential future developments in technology and the evolving Acceptable Capabilities List (ACL). Offerors are expected to base their pricing proposals on currently available technology, anticipated upgrades, and reasonable projections, as well as to include a technology refresh approach that addresses how future advancements will be managed.

48 Section B

B.2 CLIN 0002A

Incentives 5 Is the 12% incentive payments included in each Task Order's FCE ?

Yes, Task Orders are incentive based. To achieve the maximum payment amount, the qualified screening provider must meet the performance requirements for the incentive payment.

Section C, Attachment 1

Attachment 1, 1.2 Overview

Attach 1,

pg. 1

Offerors are proposing a solution for each airport task order with their proposal submission as part of a ten-year firm fixed price contract. From a pricing standpoint, an offeror will adhere to their solution for the task order (labor, equipment, maintenance) over that ten-year period to remain aligned with pricing assumptions and budgeting. Is this TSA's intent to lock in an offeror to the solution provided at task order proposal submission with a firm fixed price contract versus any other contract mechanism that could allow for adopting emerging technology and solutions not known at the time of proposal submission? Task Orders will be firm fixed price.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.4.2.2

Attach 1,

pg. 6

Is the IDIQ Operations/Program Manager to be listed by name in the IDIQ proposal? Is their resume required to be included? Yes.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.4.2.3

Attach 1,

pg. 6

Is there specific guidance on "TSA directed remote image review" that TSA can provide for review in advance of the submission deadline?

Remote image review is included within the overall contract scope; however, the specific requirement to execute this function will be determined by TSA based on operational needs at individual airports or as surge support under a separate future task order. The contractor should ensure the capability to support remote image review when requested in advance by TSA at the task order level.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.4.2.3

Attach 1,

pg. 6 Will the TSA provide specific guidance on "TSA directed remote image review" with each Task Order RFP?

Remote image review is included within the overall contract scope; however, the specific requirement to execute this function will be determined by TSA based on operational needs at individual airports or as surge support under a separate future task order. The contractor should ensure the capability to support remote image review when requested in advance by TSA at the task order level.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.1

Attach 1,

pg. 8

Regarding the statement that "The Offeror shall deliver and install the necessary infrastructure required to support security screening equipment...in accordance with the Checkpoint Requirements Planning guide (CRPG), is it correct to assume that an Offer has the same responsibility for Baggage Screening Equipment? Yes.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.3

Attach 1,

pg. 10

Regarding the statement that the Offeror shall conduct site surveys, prepare installation designs, and coordinate with airport and TSA stakeholders to ensure timely and effective deployment of technology solutions, such surveys (especially for larger capital projects) can be quite expensive and take some period of time to complete.

Does TSA envision that this will occur prior to the award of a specific Task Order award? If so, how does TSA intend to fund such an effort?

TSA does not anticipate requiring offerors to conduct full site surveys or prepare detailed installation designs prior to the award of a specific task order. These activities are expected to occur after task order award and should be included as part of the contractor’s proposed approach and pricing. If TSA determines that a preliminary site assessment is necessary prior to award, TSA will provide guidance on the scope and funding of such efforts at that time.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.3

Attach 1,

pg. 10

Regarding the statement that the Offeror shall conduct site surveys, prepare installation designs, and coordinate with airport and TSA stakeholders to ensure timely and effective deployment of technology solutions, if TSA envisions that this will occur after the award of a specific Task Order award, how can an Offeror realistically create a fixed price proposal beforehand?

Offerors should base their fixed price proposals on the information provided in the solicitation and attachments, using reasonable assumptions and their industry expertise to estimate costs in alignment with the Gold+ vision. Detailed site surveys and installation designs are expected to occur after task order award.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.3

Attach 1,

pg. 10

Regarding the statement that "if existing equipment is to be decommissioned, the Offeror ay be asked to provide the necessary services to decommission, replace, and/or remove, package and ship to a CONUS location determined by the TSA." Such decommissioning costs can be extensive. Will TSA be able to commit to whether a Offeror to be required to so such decommissioning efforts in the specific airport Task Order RFP over the 10 year period of performance of the TO?

TSA will specify in each airport Task Order RFP whether the offeror will be required to perform equipment decommissioning, removal, and shipping services. The scope and extent of these requirements—including any anticipated decommissioning during the 10-year period of performance—will be detailed at the task order level, allowing offerors to account for associated costs in their proposals. If additional decommissioning needs arise during the contract period that were not specified in the original task order, TSA will address funding and scope through contract modifications as appropriate.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.3

Attach 1,

pg. 10

If TSA will not be able to commit to whether a Offeror to be required to so such decommissioning efforts in the specific airport Task Order RFP over the 10 year period of performance of the TO, will the effort be subject to the Change Clause?

If decommissioning efforts are not specified in the original task order RFP and TSA later requires the contractor to perform such services during the period of performance, the contractor can address any such change through the contract’s changes clause 52.243-1 Changes-Fixed-Price.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.6

Attach 1,

pg. 11

Regarding the issue of maintainence, will TSA add the Offeror to TSA's maintenance contracts (especially those that contain proprietary maintenance requirements or are exclusive Original Equipment Manufacturer contracts)?

No, TSA will not add the offeror to any existing TSA maintenance contracts, including those with proprietary or exclusive original equipment manufacturers. The contractor is responsible for providing all required maintenance services under this contract and must enter into any necessary agreements with equipment manufacturers or other parties to fully support the contract scope and ensure compliance with all maintenance requirements.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.6

Attach 1,

pg. 11

Regarding the issue of maintenance, will TSA provide the maintenance corrective and preventive maintenance records for each piece of equipment at a Gold + airport site as part of the Task Order RFP?

Yes, TSA will provide available corrective and preventive maintenance records for each piece of equipment at a Gold+ airport site as part of the task order RFP or as government furnished information (GFI) during the task order proposal process. This information is intended to help offerors assess equipment condition and develop accurate maintenance plans and pricing.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.5.2.6

Attach 1,

pg. 11

Regarding the issue of maintenance, will TSA provide the age of each piece of equipment at a Gold + airport site as part of the Task Order RFP?

Yes. TSA will provide the last 12 months of historical maintenance performance to include age, operational availability, number of relevant critical and non-critical failures, number of non relevant critical and non-critical failures and parts usage.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.7.1.2

Attach 1,

pg. 17

Regarding Transition Out, If the Offeror is to remove their equipment, how can that be done without disrupting ongoing operations if the key checkpoint screening equipment (like Automatic Screening Lanes) and/or the key baggage screening equipment is the Offerors?

TSA will ensure that transition out plans between the outgoing and incoming parties address timing, coordination, and collaboration to prevent any disruption to ongoing operations. If key screening equipment is owned by the offeror, TSA may require a phased transition and close coordination between all parties to maintain continuous security screening services throughout the equipment removal and replacement process.

Section C, Attachment 1 Attachment 1, 1.7.1.2

Attach 1,

pg. 18

Regarding the statement that the Offeror shall demonstrate a financial mechanism to fund continued screening services for a minimum of 180 days, will this be an allowable cost for the Offeror to include in their pricing? Will the TSA FCE reflect this additional cost?

No, the FCE will not reflect any additional cost associated with establishing or maintaining the 180-day financial reserve. The offeror must independently demonstrate this financial mechanism as a condition of contract performance, without reimbursement from TSA.

63 Section C Responsibilities Not stated in RFP

Who actually owns any capital equipment purchased during the course of a 10 year Gold + Task Order: the Offeror, TSA, or the airport? The offeror.

64 Section C

Contingency and/or continuity of operations 7

Would an exercising of the surge capability that requires the "dramatic' increase in staffing requirements warrant an equitable adjustment under the Change Clause? TSA monitors increases and decreases in throughput and makes adjustments as needed.

Part II Contract Clauses, Section E E.1.(c)(2) 13

How can an Offeror ensure they have adequately addressed the required technical aspects for Phase 2 if we don't have the requisite TSA SOPs? TSA MD's and SOPs shall be released with the task order RFPs.

66 Section H H.3 27

Section H.3 of the Gold+ IDIQ RFP does not have the specificity of the SPP IDIQ in terms of the rules for meeting the TSA's minimum compensation requirements. How is an Offeror supposed to submit a responsive pricing for the Phase 2 without such H.3 information? Pricing will be evaluated at the task order level in Phase 2.

67 Section H H.13 38 What specific roles does TSA envision being accomplished by "Associate Contractors?"

Associate contractor clause is to ensure offeror understands TSA may use contractors for efforts to support Gold+. CO will coordinate expectations with Gold+ contractor if and when that is necessary per H.13 INTERRELATIONSHIP OF ASSOCIATE

CONTRACTORS (JUNE 2024).

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.5 45

In order to be awarded an IDIQ, does a Offeror have to submit only a Phase 1 proposal or both a Phase 1 and Phase 2 proposal?

Offerors are required to submit a Phase 1 proposal and 1 of 2 tracks in Phase 2 once released.

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.5 45

If an Offeror only needs to submit a Phase 1 proposal now, how will the Offeror be deemed qualified to bid on TO after the initial airport TO?

TSA will notify offerors of their rating for Phase 1 once evaluations are complete prior to the release of Phase 2.

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.5 45

Please confirm if a "Small Business Subcontracting/Utilization Plan" is required for submission in Phase 1 Financial Capability & Business Stability and Compliance (Volume VI). No

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.5.1B 47 What is the difference between the Track 1: Factor 1 - Cost Efficiency versus Track 2: Factor 1 Cost Efficiency?

Track 1 is for IDIQ only, Track 2 is for vendors interested in competing for the initial task order awards.

Proposal Format and Submission

1.2.5.1B, I.2.7.1 and Phase 2 Rating 47, 58, 63

If the purpose of Phase 2, Track 1: Factor 1 - Cost Efficiency is to determine whether a Offeror is qualified to be awarded an IDIQ (re: I.2.7.1) then why shouldn't it be part of Phase 1 (i.e., Phase 1, Volume VII, Cost Efficiency)? Phase 1 will result in an advisory down select.

Table I.2.5.2 –

VOLUME

DESCRIPTIO

NS &

REQUIREME

NTS Table I.2.5.2 46

Table I.2.5.2 has no compliance documents, reps & certs, or other attachments required to be submitted for the Phase 1 Volumes I-VI. Please confirm this is correct.

The compliance documentation is required as part of the Phase 2 Track 1 and Track 2 proposals.

Table I.2.5.2 –

VOLUME

DESCRIPTIO

NS &

REQUIREME

NTS Table I.2.5.3 47

Table I.2.5.3 includes reference to an excel sheet that must be included for Track1: Factor1 - Cost Efficiency and Track 2: Factor 1 - Cost Efficiency. Please provide this pricing excel sheet. Will be released in Phase 2.

Table I.2.5.2 –

VOLUME

DESCRIPTIO

NS &

REQUIREME

NTS Table I.2.5.3 47

To properly prepare submit a proposal including pricing, will TSA be providing additional site specific information for the sample airport or be providing a site visit to gather more detailed information? This is critical to proposing airport specific solutions. Airport information and site visits shall be offered at the task order level.

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.5.1(M) 50, 42

Para (M) states that "All Phase 1 volumes must be submitted before the proposal date and time indicated on the solicitation cover sheet." Does that mean that all Phase 1 volumes are to be submitted before the July 23, 2026 1:00 PM EDT due date stated in 1.2.5.1 on page 45? If so, when specifically are the Phase 1 volumes due? Yes. Phase 1 proposals are due by 7/23/2026 at 1PM EDT.

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.7.1 58

How exactly does the Track 1 Pricing become a decision point for IDIQ award when it is not listed as part of the Volume content for Phase I? Pricing will be evaluated in Phase 2.

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.7.1 58 Please verify that the sample pricing model is based on the Hypothetical Airport Information. Correct.

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.7.1 58 Is the Offeror's sample pricing submission to be Certified?

Offerors are not to submit a response to the sample task order. Pricing will be evaluated at the task order level in Phase 2.

Proposal Format and Submission 1.2.7.1 58

How can the government evaluate the sample pricing model to ensure that the proposed prices are complete and reasonable when key information (such as the TSA staffing requirements/SOPs, detailed information on the expected service life of the cited checkpoint and baggage equipment, the long term capital improvement plans of the hypothetical airport, etc.) is not provided?

Offerors are not to submit a response to the sample Task Order. Pricing will be evaluated at the task order level in Phase 2.

52.212-2 Evaluation - Commercial Products and Commercial Services Phase 1 Rating 62

The Phase 1 Rating does not include any information regarding the Phase 2 Track 1 Factor 1 Cost Efficiency.

Give this, how can the Track 1 Pricing Information become a decision to for IDIQ award? Phase 1 does not include pricing.

52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting (g) joint venture 77

After the award of the IDIQs, will two or more subsequent IDIQ holders who then form a JV be allowed to propose on an airport TO as a singular prime contractor? Only entities that hold an IDIQ contract may propose to future task orders.

52.219-14 Limitations of Subcontracting (g) joint venture 77 Para g references paragraph (e ), but there is not paragraph (e ). Please advise. Will correct with forthcoming amendment.

Attachment 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample

What does the 10-Year Estimated Contact Value include? 2

Attachment 1 Performance Work Statement Section 1.3.1.7 Facilities and Office Space states that, "The Offeror shall be responsible for obtaining and funding any office, administrative, warehouse or staff support space (including break rooms and locker areas) required to support Gold+ operations." Attachment 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample states that, "Real estate is a pass-through cost." Please confirm which is accurate and what real estate is a pass through costs versus offeror funded space.

Each individual airport has its own arrangements regarding real estate and support space.

Specific requirements and whether certain real estate costs are pass-through or offeror-funded will be detailed at the task order level.

Attachment 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample

What does the 10-Year Estimated Contact Value include? 2

How does TSA expect to accommodate changes to the minimum labor rates calculated annually if the cost estimate is factoring in a 1.6% labor rate increase annually? Will requests for equitable adjustments be considered as the TSA labor rates increase as is current practice in the SPP?

TSA will update minimum compensation rates yearly and will review requests for adjustment based on those updates.

Attachment 42 Airport Task Order Summary - Sample

Checkpoint Equipment Summary: 3

Please confirm if TSA will provide any additional information related to the screening location size for equipment configuration consideration. This will advise proposers what solutions are possible for the airport. A complete list of Airport specific information will be released at the task order level.

87 Section I I.2.5.1 / I.2.5 Tables I.2.5.2 & I.2.5.3 45-50

Section I.2.5.1 gives a single due date of July 23, 2026, 1:00 PM EDT, and lists both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 volume tables under it. The note at the end of the section then says only that Phase 1 volumes must be submitted by that date. Phase 2 Track 2 is tied to Airport 1, which is listed as TBD with no FCE released. Can the Government confirm Phase 2 Track 1 and Track 2 volumes are submitted at a later date, after TSA evaluates Phase 1 and identifies Airport 1 with its FCE? If Phase 2 Track 1 and/or Track 2 are due July, 23 can the Government afford vendors an extension? Can the Government confirm Phase 2 Track 1 (IDIQ) price materials, FCE, and government assumption file will be provided at a later date, or are vendors to use File 42- Airport Task Order Summary-Sample to price an IDIQ price.

Phase 2 will have a different due date and will be established at release of the task order RFPs.

88 Section I 52.212-2(a) Phase 1 / Phase 2 61

Phase 1 proposals receive a rating of High, Some, or Low Confidence. The RFP does not say whether a minimum rating is needed to move to Phase 2 or whether every Phase 1 offeror proceeds. Will there be a down-select after Phase 1, advisory or formal, and if so what rating is required to continue?

There will be an advisory down-select in Phase 1 notifying offerors of their confidence rating. There is no minimum rating. It will be up to the offerors to make the decision to move forward or not.

89 Section I 52.212-2(a) / I.2.7.1- I.2.7.2

58-59,62-

The RFP says Track 1 pricing is the decision point for IDIQ award and describes Track 2 as not mandatory but the only way to win the first order. Is an IDIQ award based on Phase 1 confidence and Track 1 pricing alone, with Track 2 competed only by offerors pursuing the first task order? Are offerors that receive an IDIQ position required to submit to Track 2 opportunities?

After phase 1 down select notifications a pricing element will be provided for Track 1 IDIQ level award and optional track 2 task awards for airport(s).

90 Section I I.2.5.2 / I.2.5.3 Tables 46-49

Every technical factor in both phases says "Part 1: Provide up to 5 pages," but no Part 2 is described anywhere.

Can the Government confirm technical volumes are capped at 5 pages, or are additional parts intended? Several Track 2 entries read only "pages" with no number. Can the Government state/confirm the exact page limit for each Track 2 technical factor volumes, or will these vary by opportunity? All technical volumes are capped at 5 pages. Instructions will be provided for Phase 2.

91 Section I 52.212-2 Phase 1 Factor 1 / I.2.6.1 50,61

Factor 1 assigns lower ratings to speculative or undeveloped technologies that lack a realistic transition path.

PWS 1.5.2.1 allows phased deployment of emerging technologies through agreements such as CRADAs. Will a capability that is not yet on the ACL be evaluated and scored accordingly under Factor 1, or does Factor 1 credit only ACL-listed and TSA-approved capabilities?

A capability that is not yet on the ACL will be evaluated and scored under Factor 1 based on the realism and credibility of its proposed transition path, including its maturity, likelihood of achieving TSA approval, and the clarity of its phased deployment plan. While Factor 1 gives the strongest credit to ACL-listed and TSA-approved capabilities, emerging technologies may still receive consideration if the proposal demonstrates a realistic, well-supported plan for achieving approval and operational deployment. Speculative or undeveloped technologies without a clear transition path will receive lower ratings.

Attachment 1

(PWS) 1.5.2.2 10

The PWS calls for future interoperability with TSA’s Threat Recognition System (TRS). Is TRS interoperability required at the start of performance or treated as a later milestone? Will TSA provide a current TRS specification or roadmap as GFI so offerors can scope the work? Where TSA has not yet finalized the TRS specification, will an inability to interoperate be treated as a performance deficiency?

additional functionalities under the construct of open architecture. Thus providing a platform for engagement with industry to develop a capability once and implement across the fleet. The intent for TRS interoperability is to ensure solutions are being developed and deployed with open architecture principles in place (leveraging open standards and ensuring interoperability), connectivity of equipment is through a high-speed network, and where modifications to infrastructure are being made the necessary power and server space are available. At the equipment level the focus is on 1) implementation of common data formats with the use of Digital Imaging and Communication in Security (DICOS) v03 as outlined in the TSA DICOS v03 Specification for Computed Tomography-based Systems or applicable requirements for other technologies; 2) implementation of the open interface protocols outlined in a TSA provided Interface Control Documents (ICDs), for those technologies where an ICD has been provided, or applicable open interface protocol where a TSA ICD has not been provided; and 3) highspeed network connectivity (e.g. minimum of 10GbE).

Attachment 1

(PWS)

1.5.2.2 10

The Screening Reference Architecture, Enterprise Architecture artifacts, and TechSP are listed as GFI to be provided on request or with the solicitation package. Will TSA release these during the Phase 1 question and proposal period, under SSI or CUI handling as needed, so offerors can build a sound technical approach? If not, will they be provided only after award or at the task order stage?

This information will be provided at the Task Order level for each individual airport, detailed by equipment types and by location.

Attachment 1 (PWS) 1.3.1.6 Data Rights 5-Apr

The PWS gives the Government rights in data generated under the contract and applies FAR 52.227-17 to algorithm software produced under the contract. Does this reach pre-existing proprietary AI or ML algorithms that are incorporated into the solution, or only algorithms first developed under the contract? Will TSA consider a limited-use license for pre-existing proprietary algorithm IP in place of standard government-purpose rights?

Pre-existing data may be provided as limited rights data or restricted rights software with the permission of the Government.

Attachment 1

(PWS)

1.6.2 / Performance Requirements Summary 14-Dec

Specific thresholds, AQLs, and detection standards are SSI and are not in the IDIQ package. Offerors cannot build sound staffing and financial models in Phase 1 without some sense of these numbers. Will TSA release non- SSI ranges, risk bands, or order-of-magnitude figures for the key performance and disincentive metrics, or a non- SSI throughput and staffing planning reference?

Please refer to Attachment 41 Gold Performance Metrics for the information requested.

Offerors are also encouraged to review all attachments included in the solicitation for additional relevant details. Any further information regarding specific thresholds or detection standards is considered sensitive and/or classified and will be shared at a later time, as appropriate.

Attachment 1

(PWS)

Incentive/Disincentive vs FCE ceiling 14-Dec

Phase 2 evaluates total proposed price, including performance incentive, against the FCE, and a price above the FCE is unacceptable. If incentives have to fit under that ceiling, the incentive pool may be illusory. How does the FCE ceiling and the incentive pool interact, and can earned incentives push total contract value above the FCE?

Vendors must propose a total firm fixed price (FFP) and performance incentive pool such that, when combined, do not exceed the total federal cost estimate (FCE) ceiling. Earned incentives cannot push the total contract value above the FCE; both the base price and any incentives paid must fit within the established FCE ceiling.

Attachment 1

(PWS)

1.7.1.1 Transition In /

SF1449 16

The Industry Day Q&A put transition-in at four to six months, with larger airports near the top of that range.

Period of performance begins September 28, 2026, and Airport 1 is still TBD. What interval between IDIQ award and first task order start should offerors plan for? Please confirm that airport-specific transition timelines covering technology installation, vetting, training, and ATO will be set in each task order rather than fixed at the IDIQ level.

The transition timelines are flexible based on the upcoming needs. As the requirements are more defined, timelines will be communicated.

Proposals must stay valid for 240 calendar days. Adjustments will be made by TSA as needed.

It is required to review price economic adjustments and apply them to applicable labor categories based on the Department of Labor. According to the clause, this should be done yearly.

99 Section I

52.212-2 / PWS

1.3.1.4 61,4

Gold+ calls for a single prime delivering technology, personnel, and operations as one turnkey solution. Where an offeror self-performs the screening workforce and operations through its own operating entity and existing workforce, will that receive evaluation credit under Factors 2 through 4 above an offeror that subcontracts the operator role? Is the prime’s own operator experience scored separately from capability brought in by technology teaming partners?

The goal of the evaluation is based on the entirety of the proposal to meet the requirements of Gold+.

100 Section I

52.212-2 Track 2 Factor 3 / PWS 1.4.2.3, 1.6.2.1

63,6-7,11-

The PWS treats remote image review as a TSA-directed surge obligation, while Phase 2 Track 2 Factor 3 lists off-premise screening among the innovations TSA will evaluate. If an offeror proposes a remote or centralized image-review concept of its own will that earn innovation credit under Track 2 Factor 3, may the concept be presented at the Phase 1 with airport-specific detail held for the task order?

Offerors may present a remote or centralized image-review concept as part of their innovation approach in Phase 1, with the understanding that any proposal submitted at the IDIQ level is expected to be further detailed and tailored to specific airport requirements at the task order level, as applicable.

101 Section I

52.212-2 Phase 2 Track 1/Track 2 Factor 1 / I.2.7.1-I.2.7.2

58-60,62-

The FCE sets the at-or-below price ceiling and is described as covering the full Gold+ scope. Once provided, is the IDIQ FCE a fully loaded figure that includes contractor technology capital and refresh, maintenance of both TSA-owned and contractor equipment, transition, overhead, G&A, and profit, so that a technology-heavy solution can still price at or below it? Or is it built mainly on a Federal labor-equivalent basis? Will vendors be held to ceiling rates provided at the IDIQ level for Task Order competition, or is this a hypothetical scenario for evaluation purposes only?

The $12.9B is the Gold+ IDIQ ceiling and reflects the Gold+ IDIQ maximum award amount for the contract over the next 10 years.

Files 1-9 CM Req/CDRLs;

file 13 TSE Database; PWS §1.5.2.4;

Checkpoint R&R files 021 General General

Does the Configuration Management Plan (L001) and full CDRL suite activate at IDIQ award, or only at task order award for a specific airport?

2 L001 - Configuration Management Plan and the full CDRL suite are activated at the task order award for a specific airport, not at the IDIQ award. These requirements become applicable when a task order is issued and tailored to the needs of the individual airport.

File 33 RTWT Requirements;

file 27 OD Throughput/W ait Times; file 41; Crowd Movement Tech (file 041_Crowd);

ReadySeeGo (file 041_ReadySee Go) General General

Must vendor provide Real Time Wait Time measurement hardware and software, or does TSA provide this infrastructure?

Vendors are responsible for providing real time wait time (RTWT) measurement hardware and software as part of their proposed solution, unless otherwise specified in the task order.

If TSA or the airport authority provides any portion of this infrastructure, it will be detailed in the task order requirements.

Will TSA share the official Federal pay benchmark used in FCE construction? How is ATSA compliance verified?104

The minimum compensation rates will be included in the task order request for proposal, ATSA compliance is verified via affirmative statement from offeror and comparison of compensation rates in proposal to minimums in the task order request for proposal.

File 42 Sample TO labor rates;

RFP pp.58-59 ATSA; file 37 General General

Proposals must stay valid for 240 calendar days from the due date, which runs to roughly mid-March 2027. If Phase 2 Track 2 pricing against Airport 1’s FCE happens later in that window, will TSA allow pricing updates for wage-determination or market changes between Phase 1 and Phase 2, or must the Track 1 sample-task-order pricing checked for the full 240 days?Section I

I.2.4(c) Offer Validity (240 days)

Checkpoint Financial R&Rs files 021 (Jun 2026);

PWS §§1.5.2.3-

1.5.2.4; PGDS

v8.0; T&E Guidebook Rev 6 (file 24) General General

The Airport-Sponsored Checkpoint Financial R&R requires hiring a TSA-approved CDC for equipment movement. Is the Gold+ contractor required to hire and fund a CDC, or may it self-perform checkpoint deployment as a licensed TSE contractor?

If self performing equipment movement or deployment, the Gold+ contractor must use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) certified technicians. They are also responsible for contracting a third party tester as stated in Checkpoint Financial R&R referenced.

Checkpoint Branding (file 032); Machine Branding Guidelines (file 032_machine);

FF&E Guide (file 033); TSA PreCheck TWE (file 032_precheck) General General

The Checkpoint Branding file and Machine Branding Guidelines define specific TSA brand requirements (DHS Blue/Grey colors, approved insignia placements, branding panels, signage).