ALLQUESTIONSRevised.pdf

QUESTIONS

AIRTANKER MEETING

AG-024B-S-07-0016

AERO UNION

1. On page 2 and the resulting pricing sheets on pages 3 through 7, it is obviously going to be a challenge predicting the fuel prices for five years although we do accept we need to figure out a way of working together on this. The world situation is volatile and we could be left with extensive increases or at least erratic swings in pricing. How can we mange this together without it becoming an administrative burden? After discussions, we will be going back to the survey and formula for fuel only. Tory Henderson is still looking into the possibility of issuing Government credit cards to all airtankers for the duration of the contract. If this should happen, we will address through negotiations and modifications the contract(s). Solicitation Amended to include formula.

2. We are increasing our fleet of P-3s over the next few years. We intend on having 10 operational P-3s by 2010. Consequently, on page 8, is it permissible to propose 8 aircraft for 2008, 9 for 2009 and 10 for 2010 - 2012? No, although discussions are happening that may effect this decision.

Upper management is looking into the possibility of issuing another 5 year contract, or if not all of the line items are awarded in this RFP, to take out those line items and issuing another RFP in two years to capture new platforms. Clarification, no amendment.

3. On page 11, paragraph C-5 A.3., for clarification, does this include the OLM equipment and GFE such as the FM radio? No. We recommend that the OLM not be required for flight although we accept that there may be a maximum time allowed for the OLM equipment to be off-line. We agree, but we need to know the time frame necessary to fix, so we can approve. Equipment not necessary for flight, but plan to have the equipment soon because data needs to be captured. Are additional systems available? OLM equipment is available – the Government has no problem with supplying this equipment. Clarification, no amendment.

4. On page 12, number 10 at the top of the page states that aircraft shall be weighed within 12-months prior to the start of MAP. Does that mean annually or just prior to the first year of the contract? Prior to first years MAP and every 36 months thereafter. Solicitation Amended to clarify language.

5. On page 13, paragraph C-5.D., we suggest adding to the first sentence “…FAA, Military or OEM documentation.” Our Repair Station allows us to approve OEM and Military parts purchased that lack FAA approval tags? We suggest that, when not commercially available, we are able to use parts that meet criteria of FAA Advisory Circular AC 20-62D and AC 20-142. Agreed – Solicitation Amended.

6. On page 13, paragraph C-5 E., we currently follow a two year cycle but it may be wise to consider a four year cycle for the next contract in five years as we build on our inspection data which may suggest a longer period. We currently perform an annual NDT weep hole inspection per special ultrasonic procedures. Engineering efforts required prior to approval. Clarification, no amendment.

7. On page 14, item E., what does the last sentence mean? It is ambiguous as the first sentence states “shall” and the last states “when possible”. Will be changed in Amendment to read “FAA flight plans should be filed prior to take off when possible.” Also, is the dispatch order the pilot is given for a VFR reposition flight considered as a USFS approved flight plan? Yes. It is assumed the tanker bases will allow pilots internet access in order to go to DUATS to file a flight plan and they will be made aware of this need. Yes. A resource order is an agency flight plan. The Mob guide language may be changed. A repositioning flight is on an agency order. You may file an FAA flight plan while on the ground. Clarification, no amendment.

8. On page 16, item A. requests pilot information upon award. Is this for all pilots or only the ones who haven’t undergone the background investigation? Just for those who have not received MBI. Also, will this be an annual requirement No, only for new pilots and, if so, is there a way of starting early so we are not leaving things to the last minute? You may start as early as necessary if you have the information for the new person. Solicitation Amended.

9. On page 17, number 6, could NAFA be a requirement once every 5 years (once per contract) instead of every 3 years? No Is there a “grandfather clause” for the first year of the contract? No. If the pilot has not attended NAFA in the last three years, they have one year from date of award to attend NAFA.

Would a waiver be considered if a pilot is unable to attend due to no class openings being available? All Airtanker pilots can attend each year, forever. Requirement for Captains. Clarification, no amendment.

10. On page 18, footnote 3 at the top, isn’t “or” missing from the beginning of the statement like footnote 1 for copilots? Yes, will be fixed. Solicitation Amendment.

11. On page 19, paragraph C-11.A.1., are the candidates to be submitted to the

National Fixed Wing Specialist for AKI upgrade training? Send letter to CO and National Fixed Wing Specialist. Clarification, no amendment.

12. On page 20, paragraph C-14.D., is this saying that the aircraft doesn’t have to be off a mandated 1 day a week and, if so, how long can this continue? The length of the contract (MAP). They can bid 7-day coverage, but they must have multiple crews to fulfill this requirement. An original proposal must be submitted meeting all the requirements of the solicitation, then an alternate bid can be submitted to propose multiple crews for seven day coverage. Clarification, no amendment.

13. On page 21, paragraph C-16. C.1., does the first sentence mean that the mechanic can work 24-hours and then take 8 hours off or can he only work 16 hours? The mechanic can only work 16 hours. Clarification, no amendment. We would of course observe all safety and working regulations but for clarity it would be good to agree contractually.

14. On page 21, there is nothing addressing mechanics being allowed to fly on repositioning flights or of getting the mechanic back to the aircraft at the end of the day, and any associated costs. We already dealt with this in the current contract so it would be good to address it here again. Agreed. Add Contract language C.7 Mechanics, A mechanic will be assigned to each aircraft. The mechanic will be allowed to fly on all repositioning flights.

At the end of the day, if the contractor requires it, the aircraft will either be returned to the mechanic’s location or at government expense, the mechanic will be taken to the aircraft. Solicitation Amended.

15. On page 26, paragraph F-3.B.(b)a(1)., shouldn’t “or” long dispatches be “for” long dispatches? Will be fixed. Solicitation Amended.

16. On page 28, paragraph G-4, please clarify the parameters for unavailability and how unavailability will be deducted if it occurs? Unavailability will be recorded in hours and minutes each day. This will be subtracted from 9 hours; availability will be paid for the remainder. Solicitation Amended.

17. On page 33, Clause I-4, this clause does not recognize the volatility of fuel specifically, only if our total costs change by 3%. How often would we be expected to notify the CO of changes of 3%? The clause states “written notice within 60 days after increase or decrease.” For example, we have engine reserve costs as part of our flight rate. These costs are not used as soon as they are collected. Sometimes the account is “owed” monies and other times it has excess dollars for future engine replacement. Also, why is there a 10% cap on increases but none on decreases, especially with fuel being so much of a factor? Established by the FAR. Clarification, no amendment.

18. On page 37, paragraphs B and C, were or are the Avenger P-3A Wing Fatigue

Analysis and Damage Tolerance Reports intended to fulfill this requirement for the operator? Also, when do you anticipate the report being released? The report has been released. Clarification, no amendment.

19. On page 37, paragraph D.2., is the government willing to pay for installation costs and calibration flights for contractor supplied OLM systems in the same way it would for the Government supplied system addressed in paragraph D.1.

above? NO! Clarification, no amendment

20. On page 37, paragraph D., the last sentence seems to contradict the requirement to list the OLM on the MEL per items 4 & 5 on page 38. We agree and recommend that the OLM not have to be fully functional for flight. Items 4 & 5 amended. OLM not required on MEL. Solicitation Amended.

21. On page 38, under Contractor’s OLM Program item 5, does the OLM have to be fully operational or can it be on the MEL? Yes This is related to the above question 20. Has to be on MEL – not required for flight. Clarification, no amendment.

22. On page 40, under Communications Systems item 1, is an ELT that is already certified under TSO-C91a acceptable? Yes. Clarification, no amendment.

23. On page 41, the BlueSky AFF system did not track our aircraft in Alaska last year. Is that system acceptable? Yes. Also, does the AFF system need to be operational at all times or are the USFS flight following procedures acceptable when we have an inoperable unit? We request that we are given 1 week on our MEL to get it operational. The system shall be maintained for continued Airworthiness, but an inoperable AFF system shall not exceed 10 days in duration. Solicitation Amended.

24. On page 43, number 11, radar altimeters are extremely accurate in flat terrain but not so much so in the mountains. Although we support it, what is the reason this piece of equipment is being added? Also, wouldn’t this be better installed on the copilot’s side as the captain will be looking outside during drops? Also, the second full sentence “stall” should be “shall”. It is a safety issue, will improve controlled flight into terrain, also will increase drop height accuracy. Indicator or warning light. Solicitation Amended.

25. On page 48, the load reference chart shown is confusing. Why is only Std Day listed along the top? Is the current format acceptable? Revised Chart.

26. On page 49, are all contractors required to submit the DoD forms listed or only for those aircraft that will be based there? Only aircraft based there. Does not apply for temporary aircraft. Clarification, no amendment.

27. On page 50, item d. at the top, since we do not know who, or when, will be going to Alaska, do we need to supply you with the names of all our pilots and mechanics to avoid any delays at the time they are dispatched? No.

Clarification, no amendment.

28. On page 55, AKC and AKI are not listed under abbreviations. AKC airtanker co-pilot, AKI initial attack airtanker captain. Solicitation Amended.

29. On page 58, is there a wage determination that we must comply with for employees other than the pilots listed on this one? Yes, this was inadvertently left out of the RFP. Solicitation Amended.

30. On page 72, under C.a.a., is the ATARG detailed price breakdown acceptable?

What is ATARG? – old language. Section L explains what the contractor(s) need to submit for their proposals. The Government reserves the right to ask for certified data. Clarification, no amendment.

31. On page 72, under C.a.b., is this saying that you do not want the supporting details that backup the price breakdown required in a. above? The Government wants to see all the costs that go into these prices for availability and flight rate. Although the Government is not asking for certified pricing at this time, we reserve the right to ask for this information if necessary to justify prices. Do you still want the availability quote rounded up to a number evenly divisible by 9? No. The ABS system implemented to track and pay availability and flight rates does all the calculations for payment. Clarification, no amendment.

32. On page 72, under Cancellation Ceiling paragraph 2.a., are these listed percentages cumulative? No. That is, if the contract was cancelled prior to the third year, would the contractor be paid the listed percentages for years three, four and five? The contractor would only be able to negotiate for costs up to the listed percentage for the year that was not renewed. Clarification, no amendment.

NEPTUNE

1. Page 3: The 180 day contracts— 8 day break in service Question:

a. When is the break, i.e. mid season, contractor preference or government preference? The break shall be generally scheduled in the month of June for all 180 day contracts. No availability shall be paid. MAP will extend out 6 days. Does the aircraft have to take this mandatory break for maintenance, if the company elects not to take? Yes.

b. Does the aircraft return to a maintenance facility or remain in the field? Returns to the company facility.

c. Does the government pay for the trip home and then back to a tanker base? Yes, Government pays

d. Do the 8 days have to be consecutive or can they be scheduled in shorter blocks? Consecutive. Clarification, no amendment.

2. Page 3, B-1 Schedule of Items Daily Optional/Post Use Rate Question:

Is this column requesting the price for Post Season only? Offeror’s will propose one rate for post and optional periods. When there is a need for additional equipment will the price be negotiable? Yes. Clarification, no

3. Page 8 B-4, A(5) Contracted retardant weight Question: The contract did not specify specific retardant download for the P2V. The

P2V ICA doesn’t limit our retardant load is it a Forest Service requirement that the aircraft be downloaded from original retardant load 2450? Yes, P2V maximum load is 2082 gallons retardant, unless analysis shows different.

Page 10 (7) put back in chart from old contract. No changes to the current payload. Solicitation Amended.

4. Page 9, B-9, Page 34, I-5 Extended Standby Rate Question:

The contract extended standby rate computation listed does not cover actual contractor costs for the items listed (1.5 times wage determination, benefits, & 20% overhead/profit). Is this rate adjustable and, if so, on what basis? I-5 is part of the Service Contract Act and will be revised periodically and adjusted when needed. This rate cannot be adjusted by the contractor. These adjustments are based on Wage Determinations issued by Department of Labor.

Clarification, no amendment.

5. Page 11 C-5 A(3)Unless authorized by an approved MEL, aircraft shall not be approved or used if any accessory or instrument is inoperative.

Question:

The FAA allows certain items to be inoperative under Part 91 that are not listed on the MEL. Will the USFS follow FAA Part 91.213(d) Regulations? Yes. Part 91 defines equipment as essential for safety and operational. Clarification, no

6. Page 12; No. 10., Aircraft shall be weighed configured as an airtanker within 12-months prior to the start of the MAP. Page 54; Definition of Empty Weight. Empty weight is determined by actual weight and balance data which was determined by actual weighing of the aircraft within 36 calendar months preceding the start date of the contract, or renewal period.

a. The contract reads aircraft are to be weighed within 12 months prior to MAP, does this mean each year’s MAP? The aircraft must be weighed within 12 months prior to the first year MAP. The aircraft will be required to be weighed every 36 months thereafter. Solicitation Amended.

b. Historically aircraft were only required to be weighed every 36 months, the contract definition of empty weight requires using actual weight within 36 months, should this section be updated to read actual weight within 12 months? Yes.

7. Page 15 C-9,Contractor’s Environmental Responsibilities

Do all Forest Service tanker base facilities have an EPA approved Storm Water Pollution Preventive Plan (SWPPP) established that contractors should follow if a spill occurs? Yes. All bases are required to have. We will add the wash down language from the old contract to this new solicitation. Solicitation Amended.

8. Page 17 C-10 C(7) Proof of annual simulator training

a. Are there minimum simulator requirements (ie. full motion, desk top computer)? FAA requires the use of approved professional flight simulator companies. FS and BLM pilots are required to attend annual flight simulator training. Do we still have to attend the professional flight simulator training? Yes, you will receive credit for experience, not necessary under the new contract, with the exception of Part 61.58(a) or equivalent.

b. Is there a minimum amount of time required in the simulator? Normally 6 hours in simulator, 10 hours classroom training. Clarification, no

9. Page 21 C-16 C(6), Mechanic Duty Time

If a Mechanic is not "assigned" to an airtanker do the duty day limitations apply?

No. Relief Guy is driving 10 hours to aircraft (floaters, drivers) not in contract, for safety issue – yes. If mechanic works for the company, then the 16 hour duty day is required. Clarification, no amendment.

10. Page 26; paragraph F-3 B. (b) Extended Standby Hours of standby in excess of the first 9-hours may be ordered by the CO but shall not exceed 14-hours.

Question:

a. Flight crews are limited to 14 hours, mechanics 16-hour duty days. How will maintenance personnel be addressed for extended standby? They will be paid the same as a flight crew member. They can work more than 14 hours, but will only be paid for 14. When two mechanics are assigned to an airplane for the contract item duration, does Extended Standby pay apply to both? The contract pays for only one assigned mechanic.

b. In the past there was some confusion from several COR’s about what constituted an “authorized” Flight Crewmember is the assigned mechanic(s) entitled to Extended Standby pay? Yes, but only one mechanic. We will work on educating our CORs. Clarification, no amendment.

11.Page 33, I-4 Economic Price Adjustment Question:

Does this section pertain to fuel costs? If so, if the contractor experiences an increase in fuel rates greater than 3%, is it allowable to document and submit the costs for reimbursement? Yes, Page 2, Section B, states “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.” I suggest you read the clause very carefully. FAR 216-4, (c) (3) states “There shall be no adjustment for any change in rates of pay for labor (including fringe benefits) or unit prices for material which would not result in net change of at least 3 percent of the then-current total contract price.” Added back formula for fuel costs only. Solicitation Amended.

12. Page 37; paragraph C. 1., The Contractor shall obtain documentation of manufacturer support (or FAA equivalent) for maintenance of the original aircraft while under contract to the US Forest Service.

Question: Please define FAA equivalent? Yes, individually certified by FAA, and depends on the application. Clarification, no amendment.

13. Page 37; D Equipment for conducting aircraft Operational Load Monitoring (OLM).

a. When will the operators receive the OLM equipment? Will be scheduled after award.

b. Should the cost of labor for installation of the provided OLM equipment be bid in the availability number or invoiced separately? GFE, do not add cost to availability cost. Installation has been subcontracted to SEI. Recoverable costs for installations – SEI. Performance issue with the company has been addressed and company is now under new management. Equipment will stay in the aircraft for the time being – SEI still on contract for one more year.

c. Is there a timeframe for the installation schedule? To be determined After Award. Clarification, no amendment.

14. Page 38; The Contractor’s OLM program should: Item 4. Define which parts or measured parameters shall be required on the aircraft’s Minimum Equipment List

(MEL).

Question:

Items 4 and 5 both reference the MEL, please clarify how the MEL is used with respect to the OLM program? Both should be on the MEL, although not required for flight. Clarification, no amendment.

15. Prior to awards if there is a need for technical or financial clarification does the government intend to open discussions with offers?

Yes, in accordance with FAR 52.215-1 (f) (4), Instructions to Offeror – Competitive Acquisition is included in reference in this solicitation and which states:

“The Government intends to evaluate proposals and award a contract without discussions with offerors (except clarifications as described in FAR 15.306(a)). Therefore, the offeror's initial proposal should contain the offeror's best terms from a cost or price and technical standpoint. The Government reserves the right to conduct discussions if the Contracting Officer later determines them to be necessary. If the Contracting Officer determines that the number of proposals that would otherwise be in the competitive range exceeds the number at which an efficient competition can be conducted, the Contracting Officer may limit the number of proposals in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated proposals.” Clarification, no amendment.

16. Who is the technical advisor for reviewing the operators ICA - FAA will approve the ICA. The USFS or its agent will approval for this solicitation. Clarification, no amendment.

Additional Questions:

17. Page 14: 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.

Clarification/Question:

Our pilots receive inconsistent answers from dispatches to this question. Can you please clarify; does the AFF replace flight following with the FAA? The National Mobilization Guide explains the policy each year. Language changed for 2007.

Kathy will visit with dispatch to change the language back. The AFF agency shall not relieve the flight crew of speaking with FAA regarding filing of flight plans.

Clarification, no amendment.

18. Page 14: Retardant Drops— Airtankers shall not arrive over a fire earlier than 30-minutes before official sunrise or no later than 30-minutes minutes prior to official sunset.

Clarification/Question:

a. “Prior to” has been replaced with “after,” is that intentional? What is the difference between “before” and “prior?” Standard language from previous contract will be put back in solicitation. Solicitation Amended.

b. Please define “civil twilight.” FAA defines.

19. Page 15: (2) c 1, 2 Aircraft Mechanic— Authorization Clarification/Question What is the difference between “shall” and “will” All should read “shall.” Shall means it is required/mandated. Solicitation Amended.

20. 4. Page 15: (2)f.5, Other personnel- Ferry Flights

Clarification/Question:

What does “other personnel” have to do with the contractors Authorized Initial Attack Training Pilot? Formatting, 4 will become g in Amendment. Solicitation Amended

21. Page 17 : C-10 (C6), Personnel— Proof of completion of the NAFA course every 3 years Question:

Will Captains be given waivers the first contract year (2008) for this requirement due to scheduling conflicts as a result of other job duties assigned? All captains who have not attended NAFA within the last three years will have one year from date of award to attend. Clarification, no amendment.

22. Page 18: D (G-2), Initial Attack Training Pilot— Airtanker operators are responsible for establishing written procedures for accomplishing IA training requirements during mission operations.

Question:

Are there recommended guidelines or a syllabus for the written procedures that operators can follow? No, they should be company and aircraft specific.

Clarification, no amendment.

23. Section J, Exhibit 2 Continued Airworthiness Program, Pg 38, If we have a Government Furnished OLM system do we need to address the section on pg 38 under title "The Contractor's OLM Program should:" The equipment currently provided under a separate Forest Service contract generally meet the guidance criteria stated in Exhibit 2. The OLM equipment collects the data, however the contractor needs to have a plan that describes how they will use the data in their maintenance program and their CAP. Clarification, no amendment.

MINDEN

B-1

1. How was the 8-day break in service for the 180-day contracts derived?

Daily Optional rate is specified as the Post Use Rate. Answered above.

Page 8 In chart B2

2. Footnote 1. Payload computed in gallons. Retardant weight is computed at 9.3 lbs per gallon. Max payload of tankers approved under IATB criteria section VI, pre 2006, will be downloaded 15%. Answered above.

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.

3. Are there other airframes that will not be considered for a contract? - None designated

How can new airframes be contracted during this contract cycle? Proposed at the beginning, provision in solicitation to Modernize fleet. Vendor needs to have a contract.

How will modern aircraft be compared financially with older airframes? How deep is the incentive to modernize aircraft? Forest Service must have a need and funding to bring in new platforms. Forest Service will be working with Washington Office to gather funding for acquiring new technology for more efficient and capable aircraft with less risk for alternatives to older aircraft. This needs to be recognized at Department level. Clarification, no amendment.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 10 C-3 Government Furnished Property

ADD

4. C. Contractors will be provided suitable areas to wash and maintain the aircraft.

Answered above.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 13 C-7 C. Examples of Unacceptable disabling systems are:

1. Locked door/windows; and/or

2. Fenced parking areas.

5. Isn’t the BAe-146 door locks good for one system? What rational should we consider for acceptable security systems? Dual locking systems are required, just locking the doors is not an acceptable solution. Clarification, no amendment.

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

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

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 16 C-10 Personnel

7. Is the Pilot Minimum Background Investigation a one-time requirement? Yes, already covered previously. Clarification, no amendment.

C. Airtanker Pilot-In-Command (AKP) Minimum Requirements, Page 16

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 equivalency 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).

Why only 121 equivalency in the simulator?

8. Could this be rewritten to just comply with the FAA regulations? Answered above.

Clarification, no amendement.

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).

Part 137.53 b (1) Speaks to flight experience and currency in make and model. This requirement is reasonable and valid. The similarities between Ag flying and Large Airtanker flying have began to vanish, so have the pilots with Ag training and experience that might have the desire and the aptitude to move in to the Large Air Tanker field.

Should we require 100 hours in wildfire operations? This is an FAA requirement.

Part 137 requires 100 hours. FS requires 100 hours because flying over congested areas is an FAA requirement. What language prohibits the co-pilot from the responsibility of doing everything the pilot does? Addressed in Section C-8, H.

Clarification, no amendment.

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.

9. What options do we have available to us? Professional simulator training centers.

May we get a CFII to provide a program and use the CE-337 in lieu of a Sim?

AKP only? AKC not required? Captains only. Clarification, no amendment.

C-16 Flight Hour and Duty Limitations C. Mechanics

2. Mechanics will have 2-full calendar days off duty during any 14-day period.

10. 2-24 hour periods are the current rule. Changed back to wording in old contract. Solicitation Amended.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 28 G-4 Payment for Availability

B. The Government will pay daily availability as specified in the Schedule of Items. The maximum amount of availability to be earned per day is the daily availability offered amount.

C. Daily Availability will be computed for the 1st 9-hours of the 14-hour duty day.

11. D. Daily Availability may resume or continue for a maximum of 9 hours due to unavailability accessed during the 1st 9-hours for a successful Government ordered flight. Addressed above. Solicitation Amended.

G-8 Miscellaneous Costs to the Contractor

B. The Government will reimburse the Contractor for any airport use costs the Contractor is required to pay when ordered to operate from an airport other than the administrative base such as airport landing fees, tie-down charges, or other similar type costs. Itemized receipts may be requested by the CO.

12. Landing fees should be covered even at Minden for operational flights.

Request removal of “other than the administrative base”. Solicitation Amended.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 37

13. Who determines if a contractor has a Continued Airworthiness Program? The Forest Service, or its agent, will make the determination for CAP. FAA will still issue certificates.

AG-024B-S-07-0016 November 21, 2007 Page 38

14. The Contractor’s OLM program should:

4. Define which parts or measured parameters shall be required on the aircraft’s Minimum Equipment List (MEL);

(4). Define which parts or measured parameters can be deferred on the aircraft’s Minimum Equipment List (MEL); Answered above. Clarification, no amendment.

5. Define the process used to assure the MEL of the OLM system is fully functional for each flight, including all measured parameters;

...5. Define the selection and rationale of the minimum parameters, required for valid and useful data collection;

6. Identify the specific parameters selected for recording with rationale for their selection. Vendor should know where to put these parameters, not to be decided by Forest Service. If GFE, then the Forest Service would tell them where to put the equipment.

10 TANKER

1. We note that YEAR 1 MAP START DATE as Feb 15th. To clarify does this represent that aircraft will be needed as early as February 15th 2008? Yes, unless the contract is not awarded 30 days prior to first year MAP start. The contractor will have as a minimum 30 days prior to start of MAP to get aircraft ready to perform.

The MAP will be adjusted to ensure the 30 days before performance is given.

Contract award period for the first year is one year from date of award.

Clarification, no amendment.

2. We also note on Page 10 C-2 Certifications and Approvals C – however, is it possible that Part 137 Operator can contract with a 145 Repair. Station versus owning their own 145 Repair Station? No. In the old days, a requirement came from DC, Part 137 have their own 145 Repair station. Does the FAA require a 137 own a 145 Repair Station? NO. Part 121 & 135 operators – does not have to own their own Repair Station. Clarification, no amendment.

3. Page 17 Section D AKP Experience…are there any exemptions (credits) for simulator time for pilots? If FAA approves or allows to log time for instrument or actual simulator time for pilot certification time. Some simulator time can be credited toward the time. Answered above. Clarification, no amendment.

ACO, Susan Lamb

In reading your solicitation, can you please clarify the following:

4. G-7 Payment for Overnight Allowance (Personnel) Item C

It appears that the Airtanker Base is now REQUIRED to buy meals for these personnel, if this is the case, what JC would be used if an active fire is not going on? Also, it if the a/c is ordered on ES for 1 or more hours, meal (dinner) must be provided also?

If the above holds true, will the per diem be reduced for each personnel fed?

G-7, C. shall read: The airtanker base managers shall provide meals, ice, and drinks at the Government’s expense in order to sustain fire fighting operations. If the crews are required to be on site/base due to potential fire emergencies, or the crew is flying, then adequate meals shall be provided. In addition, extended standby ordered by the Government in excess of 1 hour requires dinner to be provided. Solicitation Amended.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS:

1. Section J, Exhibit 6 – Avionics Need for hot lines (intercom system). (10 Tanker) Language added to contract to address. Solicitation Amended.

2. Pilot applications – update the form. Form not made for the airtanker folks.

Form can not be changed. Requirements that need to be filled out. Forms for pilot background check information cannot be changed. Government forms. Clarification, no amendment.

3. Data collected from OLM system – is this confidential information. Protected password. Find the environment for future use of this information. May be a safety issue. Does not want information to be public access. Dedicated server for this information. Each can access their own data, FS can access all data, but no one else can access each data. Is the data protected against FOIA?

Information may be considered proprietary. Data collected under the contract will be public data????? Data used to build the model. Data is password protected for each company. Are we required to release data under FOIA? Government reports will be releasable, but data is protected. Clarification, no

4. Change the date of the proposal needs to be received in our office with this amendment – possible. Solicitation Amended. Proposal due date will be extended until close of business January 7, 2008.

5. Number of hours for engines – left out of this solicitation - 100 hours. Will discuss. Page 24 in old contract. Language from old contract added into solicitation. Solicitation Amended.

6. Technical Proposal – line items as a minimum. Address the Exhibits. Provide everything in Section L. Air Worthiness Exhibit look at. Are the next 26 line items for the next 5 years. Based on funding – award all 26 items. Opportunity to replace old platforms. Informational. Clarification, no amendment.

7. How is flight time computed? Actual hours and minutes will be recorded for payment. Time input into ABS system. Another question - Not divisible by 9 – no longer needed. Need to spell out payment for flight more in detail. Page 28 top of the Payment for flight – needs to be spelled out. Language added to solicitation. Solicitation Amended.

8. Page 28 Paragraph G.2 (b) Unavailable upon landing, once engines are shut down. Scheduled stop – unavailable. Clarification, no amendment.

Airtanker Base Manager Questions

B-4 Aircraft Performance Specifications (Page 8)

A.5. Contracted Retardant Weight (Does this refer to the actual payload that the aircraft is capable of carrying or the 15% downloaded contract load? Is there a 15% downloading referred to in the contract?) Solicitation Amended. Chart and language from old contract added back in.

B.2. “The airtanker shall be expected to carry its maximum retardant payload unless conditions, as determined by the Airtanker Pilot (AKP) require a download”.

(Does this now mean that airtankers will carry their full 3,000 gallon load (P3A) or 2,450 gallons (P2V)? No more mandatory 15% downloading?) See above, language added back in.

B.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”. (This clause is ambiguous. Does this now mean that the airtankers may land loaded after taking off and being cancelled en route to the incident without jettisoning their load?) See Sections G-3 and B-5 (B.5) for clarification.

B-8 Standby Hours (Page 9) Crew and Aircraft must standby the first 9-hours of the day ordered by the government. (If the first nine hours are regarded as the nine hour availability period, how will the company be paid if the aircraft fails to respond to an incident within the 15 minute get away time for initial attack fires when the aircrew has decided to go to lunch and is unavailable to respond within the 15 minute get away time?) Reference Section

F-3 Contract and Performance Periods, part B. (b) a. Standby (1) (Page 26) and Section C-1 Scope of Contract, part A in regards to primary use of airtankers for initial attack and available for the exclusive use of the government during the MAP. See Section F- 3, B. 2. a. Solicitation Amended.

C-8 Operations

G. Retardant Loading (Page 14)

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”. (Again, if the pilot indicates that they want a full contract load, 3,000 or 2,450, do we load to this standard or to the previous 15% download?) See Chart at B-3 maximum retardant payload (gallons). Solicitation Amended.

H. Retardant Drops (Page 14)

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”.

Should read: “Non-AKI pilots are not authorized to drop retardant on fires unless an LP, ASM or ATGS is over the fire and supervises the drop”. Absolutely not. Language of original solicitation remains unchanged. Clarification, no amendment.

F-3 Contract and Performance Periods (Page 26)

A. Mandatory Availability Period

3. “The aircraft and pilot shall be ready to commence normal operations at 9:00 AM or such time as stipulated by the Government during the MAP”. (In R5 the fire season often continues into the late fall and early winter. Daylight Savings Time often necessitates that we begin our day at 8:00 AM to ensure a 9 hour availability day. Some Airtanker Pilots are adverse to this need and do not want to make the reporting change resulting in only 8 hours of availability. Will the companies support us in this time change or do we need to issue a blanket work order to the companies to ensure compliance?) See Section F-3, A. 3. Will be discussed at pre-works. Clarification, no amendment.

B. Daily Availability Requirements (Page 26)

(b) Personnel

a. Standby (1) “Personnel shall be on standby… The first 9- hours of standby will be considered the base or normal standby hours. During this time, the aircraft shall be immediately available and able to be airborne within 15 minutes…” (Section B-8 of the contract stipulates that the crew must be on standby the first nine hours of the contract. This section stipulates that the crew must be able to be airborne within 15 minutes. Section G-5 stipulates 9 hours required for availability. Section G-7 C.

stipulates that the Airtanker Base Manager shall provide meals, ice and drinks at the government’s expense in order to sustain fire fighting operations or readiness. What job code will we use to provide those meals ensuring that airtankers and crews will be able to meet their 15 minute get away time when there is no ongoing fire? (National Airtanker Availability Job Code, possibly?) This has not been a problem during ongoing fire operations as there is a job code to charge to. It is a problem when the weather and high fire danger indicate a potential for numerous Initial Attack dispatches and aircraft are staged at a tanker base but not assigned to an incident.

Since aircrews are on per diem, will it be sufficient to call in, pick up and bring in take out orders that they order and consume at the base bought with their own money? Or will we still have to pay for lunch with a job code even though their per diem provides for this? Again, if you allow them to leave the base they will not be in a sufficient stand by status to meet Initial Attack 15 minute requirements or the Mandatory Availability Period standby (9 hours) requirements. (Section F-3). If we provide a dining area and we can pick up their take out meals for them shouldn’t this suffice for a lunch break on site and ensure their availability? This also helps provide for an adherence to the National Rotation policy and helps to ensure that an airtanker will not be skipped if they were not available. How do the aircraft contractors feel if one of their aircraft missed an initial attack assignment and flight time or gave up their place in rotation for a meal off site?

See Section F-3, B. 2. a. Solicitation Amended.

G-7 Payment for Overnight Allowance (Personnel) (Page 29)

C. “The Airtanker Base Manager shall provide meals, ice and drinks at the government’s expense in order to sustain firefighting operations or readiness. Extended standby ordered by the Government in excess of one (1) hour requires meals to be provided”. Again if there is no ongoing fire what job code should we use as a default job code for meals? Should these charges be deducted per person from the daily availability for meals provided? See Section G-7, C. new language added. Will be discussed at pre-works. Solicitation Amended.

H-2 Post Award Conference (Page 30)

Is this the same as a pre-work conference and if so will administrative airtanker base managers be invited to attend? (Reference your letter of October 30th, 2007 in regards to pre-work meetings including all interested parties). A post award conference is not the same as a pre-works conference, but I will be meeting with as many base managers as I possibly can for a pre-works to discuss the contract requirements. Clarification, no amendment.

OTHER QUESTIONS & ISSUES

1. There are 26 items up for bid in the new solicitation. To possibly meet this amount is the government going to be looking at Douglas aircraft products possibly? What other aircraft are possibly being considered? This solicitation does not exclude the Douglas aircraft from offering a proposal. The Douglas aircraft will be evaluated the same as all other offerors, in accordance with Section L and M of the solicitation. Clarification, no amendment.

2. Oftentimes during contractual disputes or discussions the pilot refers to the Fixed Wing Specialist as having said (……………). What role does the National Fixed Wing Specialist have in the contract process and where do they fit in into discussions between the COR, CO, Pilot and Company? According to your letter of October 30th, 2007, the CO and Program Manager should be consulted after beginning with the COR.

The National Fixed Wing Specialist is the technical advisor for this program. This is a very important position with considerable influence to this program. The Fixed Wing Specialist will always be included in decisions made for this contract.

Clarification, no amendment.

3. Do timekeepers still need to record the pounds of fuel on board each aircraft for each trip? Who needs this information? How long do we keep it? NO, See Section C-8, G.

2…… “the PIC is responsible for the weight and balance and shall have the final authority…..” Clarification, no amendement.