Airtanker_Master_11_21_07.pdf

Exclusive Use Fixed-Wing Airtanker Services U.S. Forest Service, National Office

OFFEROR’S COPY

(Ref. 48 CFR 1)

Issuing Office:

U.S.Forest Service National Interagency Fire Center – Contracting Jack Wilson Building 3833 S. Development Avenue Boise, ID 83705-5354

Offers Are Solicited For:

Exclusive Use Fixed-Wing Airtanker Services

Solicitation No:

AG-024B-S-07-0016

Issued Date:

This solicitation can be downloaded from the following Internet site: www.fedbizopps.gov

IMPORTANT – NOTICE TO OFFEROR

Information and instructions for submission of offers are contained in the attached Solicitation as indicated below:

SF-33, Solicitation Offer and Award

Section L, Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors or Quoters

Section J, List of Exhibits

Before mailing your offer, please recheck the following:

Does your offer set forth full, accurate, and complete information as required by this solicitation including Attachments, Exhibits and acknowledgement of any amendments that were issued?

Have you rechecked your figures, including calculations on your worksheet?

Have you received your Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number and complied with the Central Contractor Registration requirements of FAR 52.212-1?

Have you completed the annual representations and certifications via the Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA) website at http://orca.bpn.gov ?

Have you completed, signed, and enclosed all required documents?

Offerors may call Colleen Hightower for information about this solicitation at (208) 387-5695.

“The policy of the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, disability, family status, and/or political affiliation.” Persons believing they have been discriminated against in any Forest Service related activity should write to: Chief, Forest Service, USDA, P. O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 i

SECTION A – SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

Standard Form 33

Part I THE SCHEDULE Section B – Supplies or Services and Price/Costs – Specific Information to Offerors Section B - Supplies or Services and Price/Costs – Bid Pages

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES

B-1 Schedule of Items B-2 Offered Aircraft B-3 Offerors may qualify their offer by indicating the maximum number of items willing to accept B-4 Aircraft Performance Specifications B-5 Aircraft/Retardant Tank(s) B-6 Flight Crewmembers B-7 Basic Coverage B-8 Standby Hours B-9 Extended Standby Rate B-10 Additional Information

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/WORK STATEMENT

C-1 Scope of Contract C-2 Certifications and Approvals C-3 Government Furnished Property C-4 Aircraft Requirements C-5 Aircraft Maintenance C-6 Contractor Furnished Avionics Systems C-7 Aircraft and Equipment Security C-8 Operations C-9 Contractor’s Environmental Responsibilities C-10 Personnel C-11 AKI Upgrade Training C-12 Suspension and/or Revocation of Pilot/Mechanic C-13 Random Drug Testing C-14 Substitution or Replacement of Personnel, Aircraft, and Equipment C-15 Additional Aircraft and Personnel C-16 Flight Hour and Duty Limitations C-17 Accident Prevention and Safety C-18 Mishaps C-19 Personal Protective Equipment

SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKINGS

Intentionally Left Blank

SECTION E – INSPECTIONS AND ACCEPTANCE

E-1 Clauses incorporated by Reference (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998) E-2 Inspection and Acceptance E-3 Aircraft Security Inspections

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F-1 Clauses Incorporated by References (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998) F-2 Period of Performance (AGAR 452.211-74) (FEB 1988) F-3 Contract and Performance Periods F-4 Post Season Use Period F-5 Optional Use Periods

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 ii

SECTION G – CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G-1 Payment Procedures G-2 Flight Time Measurement G-3 Payment for Flight G-4 Payment for Availability G-5 Payment for Extended Standby G-6 Reimbursement for Mobilization and Demobilization Costs G-7 Payment for Overnight Allowance (Personnel) G-8 Miscellaneous Costs to the Contractor

SECTION H – SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H-1 Confidentiality of Information (AGAR 452.224-70) (FEB 1988) H-2 Post award Conference (AGAR 452.215-73) (NOV 1996)

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES

I-1 Clauses Incorporated by Reference (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998) I-2 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (FAR 52.222-42) (MAY 1989) I-3 Property and Personal Damage I-4 Economic Price Adjustment (FAR 52.216-4) (JAN 1997) I-5 Extended Standby Rate

PART III – LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

Section J – List of Attachments Exhibit 1 Basic Aircraft Equipment and Fire Equipment Exhibit 2 Continued Airworthiness Program Exhibit 3 Avionics Exhibit 4 Flight Equipment Exhibit 5 First Aid Kit Aeronautical Exhibit 6 Survival Kit – Aeronautical (Lower 48 and Alaska) Exhibit 7 Aircraft Markings Exhibit 8 Load Reference Chart Exhibit 9 Department of Defense Requirements (Alaska) Exhibit 10 Airtanker Flight Crew Training Form Exhibit 11 Airtanker Inspection Form Exhibit 12 Definitions and Abbreviations Exhibit 13 Department of Labor Wage Determination Exhibit 14 Aircraft Records and Manuals

PART IV - REPRESENTATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

Section K– Representations, Certifications, and Acknowledgement

K-1 Certificate of Independent Price Determination (FAR 52.203-2) (APR 1985) K-2 Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence (FAR 52.203-11 (SEP 2005) K-3 Women-Owned Business (Other than Small Business) (FAR 52.204-5) (MAY 1999) K-4 Annual Representations and Certifications (FAR 52.204-8) (JAN 2006) K-5 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Proposed Debarment, and other Responsibility Matters (FAR 52.209-5) (DEC 2001) K-6 Small Business Program, Representations (FAR 52.219-1) (MAY 2004) K-7 Small Disadvantaged Business Status (FAR 52.219-22) (OCT 1999) K-8 Previous Contracts and Compliance Reports (FAR 52.222-22) (FEB 1999) K-9 Affirmative Action Compliance (FAR 52.222-25) (APR 1984) K-10 Certification of Toxic Chemical Release Reporting (FAR 52.223-13) (AUG 2003)

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 iii

PART IV – REPRESENTATION AND INSTRUCTION

Section L – instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors or Quoters

L-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference (FAR 52.252-1) (FEB 1998) L-2 Inquires (AGAR 452.204-70) (FEB 1988) L-3 Type of Contract (FAR 52.216-1) (APR 1984) L-4 Service of Protest (FAR 52.233-2) (SEP 2006) L-5 Authorized Deviations in Provisions (FAR 52.252-5) (APR 1984) L-6 Instructions for the Preparation of Technical and Business Proposals (AGAR 452.215-71) (SEP 1999) L-7 Amendments to Proposals (AGAR 452.215-72) (FEB 1988) L-8 Size Standard and NAICS Code Information (AGAR 452.219-70) (SEP 2001) L-9 Realism in Proposals L-10 Pre-Bid/Pre-Proposal Conference (AGAR 452.237-71) (FEB 1988)

SECTION M – EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

M-1 Evaluation Criteria of Proposals M-2 Contract Award

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 1

OMB Approved No. 9000-0006

SOLICITATION OFFER AND AWARD 1.THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED ORDER RATING PAGE OF

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 350) 1 76 PAGES

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. SOLICITATION NO. 4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION 5. DATE ISSUED 6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE

SEALED BID (IFB) NO. 6300-4

AG-024B-S-07-0016 NEGOTIATED (RFP) November 21, 2007

7. ISSUED BY CODE 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7) U.S. Forest Service - Contracting National Interagency Fire Center 3833 S. Development Ave Boise, ID 83705

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations, "offer" and "Offeror" mean "bid" and "Bidder."

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and 2 copies for furnishing the supplies or services in Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if hand carried, in the depository located in USFS CONTRACTING OFFICE until COB - 4:30 P.M. local time 12/21/2007

(Hour) (Date) CAUTION - LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, 52.215-10. All Offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

10. FOR INFORMATION CALL: A. NAME B. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area code) (NO COLLECT CALLS)

Contracting Officer Colleen Hightower 208-387-5695

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

SEC DESCRIPTION PAGE(S) (�) SEC DESCRIPTION PAGE(S)

PART I - THE SCHEDULE PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSES

A SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM 1 I CONTRACT CLAUSES 31

B SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS 3 PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

C DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK/STATEMENT 10 J LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 35

D PACKAGING AND MARKING 23 PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

E INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 24 K REPRESENTATIVES, CERTIFICATIONS AND 63

F DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE 26 OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

G CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA 28 L INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS 69

H SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 30 M EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD 75

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror) NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within * calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set *See Section K-5.

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT 10 CALENDAR DAYS 20 CALENDAR DAYS 30 CALENDAR DAYS CALENDAR DAYS (See Section I, Clause No. 52-232-8) % % % %

14. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS AMENDMENT NO. DATE AMENDMENT NO. DATE

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of amend-ments to the SOLICITATION for offerors and related documents numbered and dated.

15A. NAME 16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN

AND OFFER (Type or Print)

ADDRESS

OF

OFFEROR

DUNS #______________

15B. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area 15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS 17. SIGNATURE 18. OFFER DATE code) IS DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE - ENTER ax No. SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED 20. AMOUNT 21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN

COMPETITION:

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN ITEM

10 U.S.C. 2304(c) ( ) 41 U.S.C. 142(c) ( ) (4 copies unless otherwise specified)

24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7) CODE 25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 28. AWARD DATE

(Signature of Contracting Officer) IMPORTANT – Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice

NSN 7540_01_152_8064 33-133 STANDARD FORM 33 (REV.4-85)

PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

Part I THE SCHEDULE Section B - Supplies or Services and Price/Costs

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 2

It is the intent of this solicitation to secure a Fixed Price Multi-Year with Economic Price Adjustment contract not to exceed 5-years for the daily availability rate. The flight rate will be an indefinite quantity with no guarantee of flight hours given by the Government. The Government may award a single contract or multiple awards based on the outcome of the evaluation process. The first program year of the resulting contract(s) will be one year from date of award. The solicitation is written to include the requirements for each program year. Award will not be made on less than the first program year requirements. If the Government determines before award that only the first program year requirement are needed, the Government’s evaluation of the price or estimated cost and fee shall consider only the first year. The proposed percentages are the percent of the total cost for each program year to be set aside for the cancellation ceiling and date/period are as follows:

Second Program Year 45% October 1, 2009 Third Program Year 42% October 1, 2010 Fourth Program Year 39% October 1, 2011 Fifth Program Year 36% October 1, 2012

These common averages for the cancellation ceiling were estimated by taking the average of total dollars spent on airtankers in previous years and divided by estimated overhead and pre-season costs plus a percentage of costs anticipated to be amortized over the five (5) year contract period. The date/period of time is established by the agency to coincide with funding availability. It is the contractor’s responsibility to furnish, along with their proposal, documentation supporting any changes in the proposed cancellation ceilings provided. This documentation should be submitted with their proposal under separate cover and will be evaluated and negotiated at time of award. The cancellation ceiling shall not be used as an evaluation factor.

Care should be taken to provide separate Technical and Business/Price proposals in accordance with the solicitation instructions in Sections L & M.

Offerors may submit offers for any or all of the line items located in the Schedule for which they wish to be considered.

Government reserves the right to award all or none of the items in the Schedule of Items.

Mandatory Availability Period (MAP) opening date will change based on calendar year date designation from year to year.

The MAP will commence “on or about” the designated date contained in the contract Schedule of Items. Changes to the beginning and ending date of the MAP period shall be agreed upon by the CO and the Contractor.

Unlike past solicitations, all prices for this solicitation are to be priced out by the offeror(s) for each continuing year. To this end, the Economic Price Adjustment formula included in previous solicitations has been deleted. We instead have included FAR 52.216-4 Economic Price Adjustment – Labor and Material. This clause is limited to allow the contractor(s) to recoup any fluctuation in the price of labor, gasoline, and/or transportation charges upon submission of the required documentation, per the clause. The daily availability rate and the hourly flight rate are subject to adjustment under the clause.

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 3

B-1 Schedule of Items

Schedule of Items – Year 1 Item

Number Tanker

N-Number Tanker #

(If assigned) Tanker

Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

1 180 2 Feb 15th 2 180 2 Feb 25th 3 180 2 Feb 25th 4 180 2 Mar 1st 5 180 2 Mar 1st 6 160 Mar 15th 7 160 Mar 15th 8 160 Apr 1st 9 160 Apr 1st 10 160 Apr 15th 11 160 Apr 15th 12 150 May 1st 13 150 May 1st 14 150 May 1st 15 140 May 15th 16 140 May 15th 17 140 May 25th 18 140 May 25th 19 140 Jun 1st 20 140 Jun 1st 21 140 Jun 1st 22 140 Jun 15th 23 140 Jun 15th 24 140 Jun 15th 25 120 Jun 25th 26 120 Jun 25th

1 On or about, ± 3 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its Day Off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

2 Only on 180 Day contract - an 8-day break in service for maintenance during the MAP will be scheduled by the Government.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 4

Schedule of Items – Year 2

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

1 180 2 Feb 15th 2 180 2 Feb 25th 3 180 2 Feb 25th 4 180 2 Mar 1st 5 180 2 Mar 1st 6 160 Mar 15th 7 160 Mar 15th 8 160 Apr 1st 9 160 Apr 1st 10 160 Apr 15th 11 160 Apr 15th 12 150 May 1st 13 150 May 1st 14 150 May 1st 15 140 May 15th 16 140 May 15th 17 140 May 25th 18 140 May 25th 19 140 Jun 1st 20 140 Jun 1st 21 140 Jun 1st 22 140 Jun 15th 23 140 Jun 15th 24 140 Jun 15th 25 120 Jun 25th 26 120 Jun 25th

1 On or about, ± 3 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its Day Off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

2 Only on 180 Day contract - an 8-day break in service for maintenance during the MAP will be scheduled by the Government.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 5

Schedule of Items – Year 3

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

1 180 2 Feb 15th 2 180 2 Feb 25th 3 180 2 Feb 25th 4 180 2 Mar 1st 5 180 2 Mar 1st 6 160 Mar 15th 7 160 Mar 15th 8 160 Apr 1st 9 160 Apr 1st 10 160 Apr 15th 11 160 Apr 15th 12 150 May 1st 13 150 May 1st 14 150 May 1st 15 140 May 15th 16 140 May 15th 17 140 May 25th 18 140 May 25th 19 140 Jun 1st 20 140 Jun 1st 21 140 Jun 1st 22 140 Jun 15th 23 140 Jun 15th 24 140 Jun 15th 25 120 Jun 25th 26 120 Jun 25th

1 On or about, ± 3 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its Day Off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

2 Only on 180 Day contract - an 8-day break in service for maintenance during the MAP will be scheduled by the Government.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 6

Schedule of Items – Year 4

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

1 180 2 Feb 15th 2 180 2 Feb 25th 3 180 2 Feb 25th 4 180 2 Mar 1st 5 180 2 Mar 1st 6 160 Mar 15th 7 160 Mar 15th 8 160 Apr 1st 9 160 Apr 1st 10 160 Apr 15th 11 160 Apr 15th 12 150 May 1st 13 150 May 1st 14 150 May 1st 15 140 May 15th 16 140 May 15th 17 140 May 25th 18 140 May 25th 19 140 Jun 1st 20 140 Jun 1st 21 140 Jun 1st 22 140 Jun 15th 23 140 Jun 15th 24 140 Jun 15th 25 120 Jun 25th 26 120 Jun 25th

1 On or about, ± 3 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its Day Off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

2 Only on 180 Day contract - an 8-day break in service for maintenance during the MAP will be scheduled by the Government.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 7

Schedule of Items – Year 5

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

1 180 2 Feb 15th 2 180 2 Feb 25th 3 180 2 Feb 25th 4 180 2 Mar 1st 5 180 2 Mar 1st 6 160 Mar 15th 7 160 Mar 15th 8 160 Apr 1st 9 160 Apr 1st 10 160 Apr 15th 11 160 Apr 15th 12 150 May 1st 13 150 May 1st 14 150 May 1st 15 140 May 15th 16 140 May 15th 17 140 May 25th 18 140 May 25th 19 140 Jun 1st 20 140 Jun 1st 21 140 Jun 1st 22 140 Jun 15th 23 140 Jun 15th 24 140 Jun 15th 25 120 Jun 25th 26 120 Jun 25th

1 On or about, ± 3 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its Day Off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

2 Only on 180 Day contract - an 8-day break in service for maintenance during the MAP will be scheduled by the Government.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 8

B-2 Offered Aircraft

Offered Aircraft Tanker

N-Number Tanker #

(If assigned) Tanker

Make/Model

Payload 1 Normal

Operating Wt.

Cruise

(KIAS) 2

Hourly Fuel

Consumption

1 Payload computed in gallons. Retardant weight is computed at 9.3 lbs per gallon

2 Cruise speed is based on maximum payload onboard utilizing cruise power or maximum speed restriction by the STC. Cruise speed is computed at 5, 000 feet MSL at 55% METO power converted to knots indicated airspeed KIAS) for reciprocating powered airtankers, and for turbine power airtankers, at power as required to maintain best speed without exceeding manufacturer or FAA operating limitations.

B-3 Offerors may qualify their offer by indicating the maximum number of items willing to accept.

Maximum Number of Items: ______________

B-4 Aircraft Performance Specifications

A. Aircraft performance data shall be computed using the aircraft normal operating weight determined by the following weight factors:

1. Aircraft empty weight in mission configuration.

2. Flight crew.

3. 2½ hours of fuel.

4. Miscellaneous Contractor/Flight Crew items carried aboard the aircraft.

5. Contracted retardant weight.

6. Weight penalty placed on the aircraft by the FAA for the tank installation (if applicable).

B. Takeoff and Landing

1. Offered aircraft shall in accordance with the manufacturers Takeoff configuration (using appropriate performance charts) shall be capable of accelerating on all engines to take-off safety speed and lift-off within 80% of the effective runway. Take-off safety speed is defined as the manufacturers or FAA-approved lift-off speed, or if these are not available, 115% of power-off stall speed.

2. The minimum acceptable airtanker payload is 1,800 gallons of retardant. Retardant weight is computed at

9.3 lbs per gallon. The airtanker shall be expected to carry its maximum retardant payload unless conditions, as determined by the Airtanker Pilot (AKP) require a download.

3. For takeoff operations over a congested area, offered aircraft shall meet accelerate-stop requirements.

Aircraft shall be capable of accelerating on all engines to the manufacturer’s or FAA approved decision speed, experience a failed engine, and either continue to accelerate to take-off with a failed engine within the remaining runway, or come to a complete stop on the runway. If decision speed is not available, take-off safety speed shall be used in determining accelerate-stop requirements.

4. The accelerate-stop distance is no greater than the length of the runway plus the length of the stopway (if present). For ex-military or restricted category airplanes, a stopway is a safety asset, but cannot be used in the accelerate-stop calculation. (14 CFR 1.1)

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 9

5. In the event of a cancelled or aborted mission, the load will be jettisoned. The aircrew shall make the final decision as to whether or not the aircraft will not land loaded. At any time during an emergency or when adverse conditions make safe landing uncertain the pilot may drop all or part of the load as the pilot deems necessary. (Section G-3, F.)

B-5 Aircraft/Retardant Tank(s)

A. Offered aircraft shall be Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) approved within 30-days prior to the MAP.

B. C-130A aircraft shall not be considered for this contract.

B-6 Flight Crewmembers

Flight crewmembers shall be qualified, current, proficient, and approved for their assigned crew position.

B-7 Basic Coverage

6-Days ON & 1-Day OFF

B-8 Standby Hours

Crew and Aircraft must standby the first 9-hours of the day ordered by the Government.

B-9 Extended Standby Rate

Hours of standby in excess of the first 9 hours may be ordered by the Government. Rate is $41.00 per hour per authorized Flight Crewmember. The maximum total daily hours will not exceed 14. (See Section I-4)

B-10 Additional Information

Additional information required to be submitted with your Proposal is contained in Section L, Instructions to Offerors- Competitive Acquisition (FAR 52.215-1) (JAN 2004)

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/WORK STATEMENT

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 10

C-1 Scope of Contract

A. It is the intent of this solicitation and any resultant contract to secure a Fixed Price Multi-Year with Economic Price Adjustment contract not to exceed 5-years for Fixed-Wing Airtanker(s) services fully operated by qualified personnel and equipped to meet specifications of this contract. Primary use of airtankers will be for initial attack of wildfires. During the MAP the airtanker shall be made available for the exclusive use of the government.

B. Airtankers will be assigned annually an Administrative Base for contract management oversight only and dispatched nationwide.

C. All services provided under this contract shall be performed in a safe and efficient manner. Contractors shall use all reasonable means to support safety awareness and adherence to established FAA standards and procedures as well as adherence to the USFS Aviation Management 5700 Manual by all personnel engaged in airtanker operations. The USFS Aviation Management 5700 Manual can be obtained at the following internet address under publications: http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/aviation/av_library/index.html

D. Contract personnel shall conduct themselves in a professional and cooperative manner in fulfilling this Contract.

C-2 Certifications and Approvals

A. Aircraft shall conform to the approved type design, be maintained and operated in accordance with Type Certificate (TC) requirements and applicable Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) except those requirements specifically waived by the CO. The aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with their FAA approved maintenance program.

B. Contractors shall be currently certificated to meet 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 137(Agricultural

Aircraft Operations). Any aircraft offered shall be listed by make, model, series, and registration number on the Operators Certificates.

C. Operators who hold 14 CFR Part 137 Operators Certificate are required to hold 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Station

Certificate with a limited airframe rating for offered aircraft. In addition, operators who also hold a 14 CFR Part 121 Operating Certificate are required to use 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Stations.

D. Aircraft shall be 14 CFR Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) certified.

E. Any modification or alteration that may alter the San Dimas Technology Development Center (SDTDC) retardant coverage test results shall be approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB).

C-3 Government Furnished Property

A. If Government Furnished Property (GFP) is provided, the Contractor shall be required to sign a property receipt document. Upon Government request, GFP shall be returned to the Government in accordance with GFP (Short Form) FAR Clause 52.245-4 (JUN 2003).

B. The Government will provide a VHF-FM portable radio to be used by the Pilot in Command (PIC) at the assigned work location. (Alaska Only)

C-4 Aircraft Requirements

A. General

Aircraft shall have been issued a Standard or a Restricted Category Airworthiness Certificate and shall meet one of the following:

1. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) that allows for the dropping of retardant on wildland fires (i.e. aerial dispersant of liquids); or

2. Original Equipment Manufacturer’s (OEM) approval for the aircraft to aerial dispersant of liquids and OEM Continued Airworthiness Program in the fire fighting role.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 11

B. Condition of Equipment

1. Contractor-furnished aircraft and equipment shall be operable, free of damage, and in good repair. Fluid leaks shall be within manufacturer’s specified limits.

2. All windows and windshields shall be clean and free of scratches, cracks, crazing, distortion, or repairs, which hinder visibility.

3. The aircraft interior shall be clean and neat.

4. The exterior finish shall be clean, neat, and in good condition. Low visibility paint schemes are unacceptable.

5. If the aircraft has been used to disperse pesticides or herbicides it shall be supplied clean and odor free.

The retardant tank(s) shall be cleaned in accordance with Federal Insecticide Fungicide Rodentacide Act (1969) (FIFRA) Regulations.

6. Propellers having damaged leading edge boots or cut-off leads on the electric boots shall have boots removed and blades inspected and treated for corrosion prior to the pre-use inspection each year.

C. Basic Aircraft and Fire Equipment

(See Section J, Exhibit 1)

C-5 Aircraft Maintenance

1. Aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with all applicable 14 CFR requirements, manufacturer’s Service Bulletins (SBs) or military Time Compliance Technical Order (TCTO) that are a safety of flight item or identified by an Airworthiness Directive (AD) note and shall be complied with during the period of the contract performance.

2. Special equipment and/or modification of the aircraft to meet the specifications of this contract shall be inspected, repaired, and altered in accordance with 14 CFR requirements and manufacturer's recommendations or engineered data and, if required, be FAA approved.

3. Unless authorized by an approved MEL, aircraft shall not be approved or used if any accessory or instrument is inoperative.

4. All "time change" components, including engines, shall be replaced upon reaching the manufacturer’s recommended time, or FAA approved extension if applicable. Aircraft operated with components and accessories on approved FAA TBO extension programs are acceptable, provided the Contractor who provides the aircraft is the holder of the extension authorization (not the owner if the aircraft is leased), and shall operate in accordance with the extension.

5. Contract performance may subject the aircraft engine to frequent smoke, sand, and dust ingestion. All aircraft shall comply with the erosion inspection procedures at the recommended intervals in accordance with the engine operation and maintenance manual for the contracted aircraft.

6. Maintenance of aircraft shall be recorded in accordance with 14 CFR Part 43 and Part 91 including aircraft time-in-service. Aircraft maintenance records shall be in accordance with the FAA Advisory Circular (AC) No. 43-9C as revised.

7. A copy (not the original) of the current maintenance record required by 14 CFR Part 91 shall be kept with the aircraft.

8. A maintenance discrepancy that renders the aircraft unavailable for service requires the CO to be notified and upon repair a “Return-to-Contract Availability” may be issued by the Government.

9. Aircraft records and manuals shall be available to agency inspectors. See Section J, Exhibit 14.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 12

10. Aircraft shall be weighed configured as an airtanker within 12-months prior to the start of the MAP period.

The aircraft shall be weighted following any major repair or major alteration or change to the equipment list which significantly affects the center of gravity of the aircraft.

11. All weighing of aircraft shall be performed on scales that have been certified as accurate within the preceding 24-months of the MAP period. The certifying agency shall be an accredited weights and measures laboratory.

12. An Equipment List shall be compiled for each offered aircraft. Weight and balance records shall be revised each time equipment is removed or installed.

13. The CO shall be notified and a revised weight and balance record shall be submitted to the CO when an aircraft’s empty weight changes by +1% or more.

B. Continued Airworthiness Program

(See Section J, Exhibit 2)

C. Engines and Propellers

1. The maximum time since rebuild or time since overhaul permitted on any engine installed on a contract airtanker shall be:

Reciprocating Pratt & Whitney R-2000 1550 hours R-2800 "B" Series 2100 hours R-2800 "C" Series 2450 hours R-4360 1250 hours Wright R-2600 1250 hours R-3350 2000 hours

Turbojet Not exceed manufacturer's recommendations.

Turboprop Not exceed military or civil approved times or approved extensions.

Allison T-56 series Not be operated when efficiency becomes less than 95%.

2. Extensions to Maximum Engine Time Since Overhaul or Rebuild may be requested in writing to the CO for consideration. The request should include provisions for oil sampling, monitoring and evaluating the engines to be extended.

3. "Top" overhauls shall not be considered as an overhaul on any reciprocating engine. A "Hot Section" inspection will not be considered as an overhaul on any turbojet or turboprop engine unless so specified by the manufacturer of the engine.

4. Following engine damage resulting in metal contamination of the engine lubrication system, the following items shall be accomplished before the aircraft is approved for return to service (applicable only to contaminated parts):

a. All engine accessories, except propellers dependent on circulating engine oil pressure for operation, shall be removed and replaced with new, overhauled, rebuilt or serviceable units certified as airworthy by an appropriately-rated person (14 CFR Part 43.3).

b. Propellers using the engine oil system for operation shall have the propeller dome removed and flushed.

c. The engine oil cooler shall be removed and replaced with a new, overhauled or repaired unit which has been certified as airworthy by an appropriately rated FAA Certified Repair Station (CRS).

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 13 d Any additional inspections or maintenance required by either the airframe or engine manufacturer shall be accomplished.

5. Engine/propeller records shall be certified by an appropriately-rated person (14 CFR Part 43.3) or military authority; and shall be made available for inspection upon request. Engines removed from storage (unsealed - 2 years; sealed - 5 years, or greater) shall be inspected for rust and corrosion, compliance with ADs, and attested airworthy by a certified power plant mechanic prior to entering service.

D. Parts

Replacement parts shall have approved FAA documentation. Parts that have been rebuilt, overhauled, inspected, modified, repaired, or tested should have a maintenance release document signed by an appropriately certificated person qualified for the relevant function that signifies that the item has been returned to service.

E. P-3 Aircraft Phase lll Inspection

The 12-year cycle for the dry wing center section plank inspection shall be reduced to a 2-year cycle. This may be revised based upon a complete loads analysis and operational history of the aircraft.

F. Maintenance Flights

A functional maintenance flight shall be performed following overhaul, repair, and/or replacement of any engine, power train, or flight control equipment, and following any adjustment of the flight control systems before the aircraft is returned to service. The flight shall be performed at the Contractor’s expense. Results of the maintenance flights shall be reported to and approved by the USFS Maintenance Inspector before the aircraft is returned to Contract Availability.

C-6 Contractor Furnished Avionics Systems

(See Section J, Exhibit 3)

C-7 Aircraft and Equipment Security

A. The security of Contractor provided aircraft and equipment is the responsibility of the Contractor.

B. Aircraft shall be electrically and/or mechanically disabled by two independent security systems whenever the aircraft is unattended. Deactivating security systems shall be incorporated into preflight checklists to prevent accidental damage to the aircraft or interfere with safety of flight.

C. Examples of Unacceptable disabling systems are:

1. Locked door/windows; and/or

2. Fenced parking areas.

C-8 Operations

Regardless of any status as a public aircraft operation, the Contractor shall operate in accordance with 14 CFR Part 91 and each certification required by this contract unless otherwise authorized by the CO.

B. Pilot Authority and Responsibilities

The PIC is responsible for the safe operation of the aircraft and the safety of its occupants and payload. The Pilot has final authority to determine whether the flight can be accomplished safely and shall refuse any flight or landing which is considered unsafe.

C. Aircraft shall not be refueled or left unattended with the engines running.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 14

D. Flight Equipment

(See Section J, Exhibit 4)

E. Flight Plans

Pilots shall file, open, and operate on a FAA, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), or a USFS approved flight plan for resource ordered flights. Contractor flight plans are not acceptable. Flight plans shall be filed prior to takeoff when possible.

F. Flight Following

Pilots are responsible for flight following with the FAA, ICAO, or in accordance with USFS approved flight following procedures including Automated Flight Following (AFF).

G. Retardant Loading

1. Airtankers shall normally not be loaded with retardant until dispatched to a fire. Off-loading may be authorized by the Government when required for the performance of maintenance or flights not requiring retardant.

2. The PIC is responsible for the weight and balance and shall have the final authority as to the quantity of retardant loaded onto the aircraft.

H. Retardant Drops

1. Qualified Initial Attack Airtanker Pilots (AKI) are authorized to drop retardant on fires without the supervision of a Leadplane (LP) Aerial Supervision Module (ASM), or Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS).

2. Non-AKI pilots are not authorized to drop retardant on fires unless an LP or ASM is over the fire and supervises the drop.

3. Retardants shall be dropped as accurately as possible on the designated target areas of the fire. Minimum drop height is 150 feet above the ground or canopy cover (whichever is higher).

4. Airtankers shall not arrive over a fire earlier than 30-minutes before official sunrise or no later than 30-minutes prior to official sunset unless the following requirements are met:

a. A qualified LP, ASM, or ATGS is on the scene; and

b. Determines that visibility and other safety factors are suitable for dropping retardant; and

c. Notifies the appropriate dispatcher of this determination.

5. Airtankers shall not drop retardant during periods outside of civil twilight. (Alaska Only)

6. Airtankers utilized for AKI pilot training while providing services under this contract are required to have a fully operational set of tank opening controls installed on the Second-in-Command (SIC) control yoke.

These controls shall be labeled appropriately.

7. Only crewmembers authorized by the CO as essential to the mission are authorized to be aboard an airtanker during fire missions.

8. The CO may authorize personnel for performance of work (i.e. ferry flights) to fly aboard airtankers.

I. Additional Crew Members

1. Only those personnel essential to an air attack flight shall be on board the Airtanker during actual fire missions. The only exception shall be the limited authorization of Contractor designated check pilots, Contractor employed aircraft mechanics, Government designated technical inspectors, or Government designated leadplane pilots/trainees. Such authorizations shall be on a limited basis and by approval

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 15 of the Contracting Officer. Persons will be authorized to be on board an airtanker in compliance with FAR

91.313 (d).

Such flights shall be limited to Airtankers having an additional seat (other than the required crew seats) with seat belt, shoulder harness, and intercom connectors.

2. Only the following personnel with listed qualifications and under the conditions as stated may be authorized as an additional crewmember.

a. Chief Check Pilot (Contractor)

1. Shall be Initial Attack qualified.

2. FAA type-rated in the aircraft to be flown.

3. Shall have current designation as Check Pilot from Contractor.

4. Shall have current Agency Qualification Card.

b. Flight Engineer (Contractor)

1. Shall have current authorization from Contractor.

2. Shall have current Agency Qualification Card.

c. Aircraft Mechanic (Contractor)

1. Shall have current authorization from Contractor before riding in aircraft.

2. Will have current authorization from the Contracting Officer or Contracting Officer's Representative.

d. Authorized Aircraft or Pilot Inspector (Government)

1. Will have current authorization from Contractor and Pilot-in-Command before riding in aircraft.

2. Will have current authorization from the Contracting Officer.

e. Authorized Airtanker Lead Plane Pilot/Airtanker Lead Plane Pilot Trainee (Government)

1. Will have current authorization from Contractor and Pilot-in-Command before riding in aircraft.

2. Will have current authorization from the Contracting Officer.

f. Authorized Initial Attack Training Pilot (Contractor)

1. Shall be Initial Attack qualified in the aircraft to be flown.

2. Shall have current designation as Initial Attack Training Pilot from the contractor.

3. Shall have current Agency Qualification Card.

4. Other Personnel - Ferry Flights

Contractor personnel essential to the Airtanker for the performance of the contract work may be authorized in advance by the Contracting Officer to board ferry flights to bases and return when the Airtanker is not dispatched to a fire mission.

C-9 Contractor’s Environmental Responsibilities

A. The Contractor is responsible to ensure that all maintenance, fueling, and flight activities do not cause environmental damage to property or facilities. The Contractor is responsible to clean and rehabilitate areas adversely affected by Contractor activities and shall, whenever practical and possible, utilize solvents and

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 16 cleaning agents that are either biodegradable or consistent with acceptable safety, health and environmental concern practices.

B. The Contractor is responsible for handling and clean-up of fuel, oil, and retardant contamination on airport ramps, retardant sites, parking areas, landing areas, etc., when caused by Contractor aircraft or personnel.

C. The Government may assign an area to be utilized by the Contractor for storage of equipment used in support of Contract performance. Oil, solvents, parts, engines, etc. shall be stored and utilized in a manner consistent with acceptable safety, health and environmental concerns.

D. The Contractor shall immediately report any spill of fuel, hazardous chemical, regulated waste, or hazardous substance to the CO and spill-reporting authority.

C-10 Personnel

A. Pilot Minimum Background Investigations (MBI)

1. Upon award the Contractor shall provide the following information to the Government:

Name (first, middle, last) Date of Birth Place of Birth Social Security Number Contact Phone Number

2. Applicants shall email or fax this information to:

Immanuel West iwest@fs.fed.us 505-563-9991 (fax) 505-563-9211 (office)

3. Once the information is received, the applicant will be provided access to a secure online database to complete SF-85P electronically. Applicants can obtain information about the MBI process at www.usda.gov/da/pdsd/

4. Contract pilots will be permitted to operate aircraft while the initial background investigation is being conducted. Pilots must receive a favorably adjudicated MBI or the pilot shall be removed from the contract.

5. Costs incurred by the Government associated with the background investigation will be reimbursed by the contractor by issuance of a bill for collections for all pilots investigated.

B. Crewmember Approvals

1. Flight crewmembers shall submit a completed Airplane Pilot Qualification Application. At the discretion of the

Government, crewmembers may require a competency and mission proficiency check. The check shall be conducted in a government approved contracted aircraft supplied at no expense to the Government.

2. Upon satisfactory completion of the check, the pilot will be issued an Interagency Pilot Qualification Card documenting the missions each pilot is approved to perform in the aircraft to be flown.

C. Airtanker Pilot-In-Command (AKP) Minimum Requirements

1. Commerical Pilot Airplane Certificate with Instrument rating or an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) with appropriate Category Class and Unrestricted Type Rating for the aircraft to be flown.

2. Valid Class II (or Class I) FAA Medical Certificate.

3. PICs shall meet requirements of 14 CFR Part 61.58(a) instrument currency requirements Part 61.57(c), (d), or (e) proficiency check, or Part 121 equivalency .Part 121 equivelency may be accomplished in FAR part 142 approved simulator as per 61.57 (a)(3), (b)(2), (c)(1) and (d)(1)(ii), and as per 61.58 (e).

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 17

4. PICs shall meet 14 CFR Part 137.53 congested area requirements. (Pilots not meeting this requirement may be issued an AKP card provided the limitation is noted on the card by the Airtanker Pilot Inspector and a qualified AKI is assigned to every mission).

5. At the CO's discretion, pilot’s shall pass a competency and mission proficiency check in make and model aircraft, conducted over typical terrain.

6. Proof of completion of the USFS Airtanker Pilot Training Program annually and the National Aerial Firefighting Academy (NAFA) course every 3-years.

7. Proof of annual simulator training in standard operating procedures, Crew Resource Management (CRM), Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) prevention, instrument currency, and emergency procedures.

D. AKP Experience

Pilots shall have accumulated the minimum flight hours listed below. Flight hours shall be determined from a certified pilot log. Further verification of flight hours may be required at the discretion of the CO.

Pilot (Total Time) ........................................................................................................................ 1500 hrs

Pilot-In-Command (Airplane) ...................................................................................................... 1200 hrs

Pilot-In-Command Breakdown

An unrestricted type rating in the make and model to be flown. Time shall be accumulated after the issuance of the type rating ............................................................................................ 25 hrs 1

Category (airplane) and class (multi-engine) to be flown ............................................................ 200 hrs

Multi-engine aircraft over 12,500 pounds, if applicable (except for time credit note) time shall be accumulated after receiving type rating) ................................................................................. 100 hrs 2

During preceding 12-months (Airplanes) .................................................................................... 100 hrs 3

Instrument (50-hrs Actual) ........................................................................................................... 75 hrs

Night flying to include at least 3 -akeoffs and landings to full stop during the 90-days preceding annual pilot approval in category and class over 12,500 lbs. ...................................... 100 hrs

Typical terrain (mountain and low-level) ..................................................................................... 200 hrs

During 60 days prior to annual agency Pilot Inspection

In make and model, to include 5 takeoffs and landings performed from the left seat ................. 5 hrs 4

Complete mission training flights by demonstrating and documenting proficiency in dropping a minimum of two full loads of water to a contractor designated mission training pilot.

(See Section J, Exhibit 10)........................................................................................................... 2 hrs

Demonstrate dropping one full load of water in typical terrain under the observation of an Airtanker Pilot Inspector in the make and model of airtanker to be flown ........................................................... as required

1 The 25-hours of PIC required shall have been within the past 5-years with an Unrestricted Type rating in make and model to be flown. Time shall be accumulated after the issuance of the type rating. The time in the make and model to be flown may be reduced to 10-hours provided the pilot holds an Initial Attack (AKI) rating and completes training in maneuvers simulating airtanker operations.

2 Pilots who have flown as SIC in multi-engine airtanker operations may count 50% of that time toward the 100-hours PIC requirement (left seat) to a maximum of 50-hours; or

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 18

3 Performed as Airtanker Pilot during preceding 12-months.

4 Initial Attack Training Pilots (AKTP) may perform the make and model experience requirements from either the (left) and/or (right) seat. Dropping loads (water) for the Airtanker Pilot Inspector shall be demonstrated from both the (left) and (right) seat, with a minimum of 2 full loads total dropped.

E. Airtanker Second-In-Command (AKC) - Requirements

1. Commerical Pilot Airplane Certificate with Instrument and multi-engine rating.

2. Valid Class II FAA Medical Certificate.

3. AKC shall meet requirements of 14 CFR Part 61.55 and 61.56.

4. Proof of completion of the USFS Airtanker Pilot Training Program annually and/or the NAFA course.

Pilot-In-Command (Airplanes) ..................................................................................................... 800 hrs

Pilot hours in the Preceding 12-months ...................................................................................... 100 hrs 1

1 Or performed as an AKC in the past 12-months; or received a Type rating in the make and model to be flown in the past 12-months, or pilots previously designated as AKC but who have not acted in that capacity during previous 36-months, shall demonstrate their ability in flight aboard the aircraft to a designated Airtanker Pilot Inspector during the annual pilot approval process.

F. Flight Engineer (FE)

1. Shall have a current FAA Flight Engineer (FE) Certificate with appropriate rating issued under 14 CFR Part

63 and meet currency requirements of 14 CFR Part 91.529 (b) with a minimum of 5-hours within 60-days prior to the start of contract MAP.

2. Valid Class II FAA Medical Certificate

3. Current authorization from Contractor.

G. Initial Attack Training Pilot (AKTP)

1. Airtanker operators are responsible for nominating Initial Attack Training Pilot(s) within their company.

Contractors shall submit in writing eligible candidates offered to be designated as an AKTP.

2. Airtanker operators are responsible for establishing written procedures for accomplishing Initial Attack training requirements during mission operations. A copy of these procedures shall be provided to the Airtanker Pilot Inspector for review and will be considered when approving Initial Attack Training Pilots. A copy of the procedures shall be forwarded to the Contracting Officer.

3. Candidates shall be current AKI with 2-years experience.

4. Candidate shall demonstrate drop proficiency from the (right) seat of the airtanker to be flown under the observation of an Airtanker Pilot Inspector.

H. Mechanic

1. The contractor shall furnish 1 full time mechanic for each aircraft. The mechanic shall maintain the aircraft in accordance with requirements specified within this contract. The mechanic shall meet the requirements of 14 CFR Part 43.7(b) or 43.7(c).

2. The mechanic shall have 12-months experience in maintaining the category and class of aircraft being flown.

3. Mechanics shall have satisfactorily completed a manufacturer's maintenance course or an equivalent training program for the make and model of aircraft, or have 12-months experience working on similar…