A17_JA_Sole_Source_Ignition_Switches_Redacted_1.pdf

removed while the switch is in a mid-position, meaning a magneto may remain ungrounded. This creates a hazard of an accidental engine start during propeller movement, even by hand.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Accident Identification Number:

ERA18LA199, describes a fatal accident in which a pilot lost his life due to undetected wear of an ignition switch and key. Additionally, DOI Safety Alert (SA) 25-02, identifies a significant safety hazard in which an ignition switch was inadvertently set to the right magneto rather than the off position, a condition that could have resulted in the loss of life.

Due to the critical and urgent nature of this requirement, the Government has determined that it is in its best interest to award this procurement on a sole source basis to a qualified small business vendor with demonstrated experience procuring and delivering similar aviation components. The selected vendor utilizes the required ignition switches in its aircraft. They are familiar with the technical specification and delivery protocols necessary to ensure successful and timely fulfillment of the requirement. The replacement switches and keys are essential to maintaining aircraft availability, operational efficiency, and overall fleet safety. A timely acquisition is critical to avoiding mission disruption, minimizing the risk of mechanical failure, and mitigating known safety hazards associated with aging or defective ignition systems.

6. Market Research.

Knowledgeable government personnel from OAS were consulted about this need. OAS personnel have extensive knowledge on this particular item and the market conditions in their region.

Mandatory sources of supply were reviewed in accordance with FAR Part 8, including GSAAdvantage and other applicable sources. These reviews confirmed that the required ignition switches and matching keys are not available through any mandatory supply sources.

Accordingly, this acquisition will proceed as a sole source, brand name procurement based on results of market research.

Research indicates that the required ignition switch currently utilized on the Cub Crafters FAA FAR Part 23 certified requirements of OAS. Although Cub Crafters is not the original manufacturer, they serve as an authorized distributer of this FAA/PMA approved ignition switch, which is suitable for installation in OAS CC-18 aircraft and other legacy fleet aircraft. In addition, it utilizes a double-cut key which minimizes the risk of confusion with legacy keys already in the field.

Cub Crafters has a demonstrated history of successfully delivering aviation products and is uniquely positioned to ensure accurate ordering, configuration and delivery. Based on these factors, Cub Crafters is the only known source reasonably available to provide the exact brand-name ignition switch and keying solution required to meet

Cub Crafters, Inc. has an active registration in SAM and is a small business under NAICS code 336413, which has the same size standard as this requirement.