11-9009 Next Generation Solicitation Conformed Final Jan 19 2012.pdf

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

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 350)

RATING PAGE OF PAGES

1 143

2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3. SOLICITATION NUMBER

AG-024B-S-11-9009

4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION

SEALED BID (IFB)

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

5. DATE ISSUED

11/30/2011

6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NUMBER

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., BLDG. 106, SUITE 1100

BOISE, ID 83705-5354

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

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and (See Section L.6) copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 7, or if hand carried, in the depository located in FOREST SERVICE CONTRACTING OFFICE until 4:00 PM (C.O.B.) local time 02/15/2012

(Hour) (Date)

CAUTION - LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All Offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

10. FOR

INFORMATION

CALL:

A. NAME

MATTHEW D. OLSON

B. TELEPHONE (NO COLLECT CALLS) C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

mdolson@fs.fed.us

AREA CODE

(208)

NUMBER

387-5835

EXT.

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

(X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S) (X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S)

PART I – THE SCHEDULE PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

X A SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM 1 X I CONTRACT CLAUSES 8

X B SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS 14 PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

X C DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK/STATEMENT 20 X J LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 61

X D PACKAGING AND MARKING 1 PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

X E INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 2

X K REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND

OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

X F DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE 3

X G CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA 3 X L INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS 8

X H SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 2 X M EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD 3

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 withi n 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 s et opposite each item, delivered at the designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule .

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

(See Section I, Clause No. 52-232-8)

10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 20 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 30 CALENDAR DAYS (%) CALENDAR DAYS (%)

14. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMEND-

MENTS (The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors and related documents numbered and dated):

AMENDMENT NO. DATE AMENDMENT NO. DATE

15A. NAME AND

ADDRESS

OF OFFER-

OR

CODE FACILITY 16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER

(Type or Print)

NINE DIGIT DUNs NUMBER: .

15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER 15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS IS

DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE – ENTER SUCH

ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

17. SIGNATURE 18. OFFER DATE

AREA CODE NUMBER EXT.

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:

10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) ( ) 41 U.S.C. 253 (c) ( )

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS

SHOWN IN (4 copies unless otherwise specified)

ITEM

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

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

28. AWARD DATE

IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition is unusable

STANDARD FORM 33 (REV. 9-97)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

Solicitation No. AG-024B-S-11-9009 U.S. Forest Service Exclusive Use Next Generation Fixed-Wing Airtanker Services National Office

SECTION A – SOLICITATION /CONTRACT FORM

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKING

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

SECTION G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

SECTION H – SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES

PART III LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

SECTION J – LIST OF EXHIBITS

PART IV – REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION K – REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER STATEMENTS OF

OFFERORS OR RESPONDENTS

SECTION L- INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS OR RESPONDENTS

SECTION M – EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION A – SOLICITATION /CONTRACT FORM

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

B-1 SCHEDULE OF ITMES .................................................................................... B-3 B-2 OFFERED AIRCRAFT AND ASSOCIATED DATA ....................................... B-12

B-3 OFFERORS MAY QUALIFY THEIR OFFER BY INDICATING THE MAXIMUM

NUMBER OF ITEMS WILLING TO ACCEPT IN THE FIRST, SECOND AND

THIRD YEARS................................................................................................ B-12

B-4 AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS.......................................... B-12

B-5 AIRCRAFT/RETARDANT TANK(S) ............................................................... B-13 B-6 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS ............................................................................. B-13 B-7 BASIC COVERAGE ....................................................................................... B-13

B-9 STANDBY HOURS ......................................................................................... B-14 B-10 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE ....................................................................... B-14

B-11 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION........................................................................ B-14

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

C-1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT .................................................................................. C-1

C-2 CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVALS ............................................................ C-1 C-3 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY ...................................................... C-2

C-4 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................... C-2 C-5 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE ............................................................................ C-3

C-6 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED AVIONICS SYSTEMS ...................................... C-6 C-7 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT SECURITY ..................................................... C-6 C-8 OPERATIONS .................................................................................................. C-6

C-9 CONTRACTOR’S ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES ......................... C-10

C-10 PERSONNEL ................................................................................................. C-10

C-11 RESERVED………………………………………………………………………….C-11

C-12 SUSPENSION AND/OR REVOCATION OF PILOT/MECHANIC ................... C-15

C-13 RANDOM DRUG TESTING ............................................................................ C-15

C-14 SUBSTITUTION OR REPLACEMENT OF PERSONNEL, AIRCRAFT, AND

EQUIPMENT .................................................................................................. C-16 C-15 ADDITIONAL AIRCRAFT AND PERSONNEL............................................... C-16 C-16 FLIGHT HOUR AND DUTY LIMITATIONS .................................................... C-16

C-17 ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND SAFETY

(SEE EXHIBIT 11 – SYNOPSIS OF SAFETY PROGRAM) ........................... C-18

C-18 MISHAPS ....................................................................................................... C-18 C-19 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT ...................................................... C-19 ii

SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKING ............................................................ D-1

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E-1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998) E-1

E-2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE ................................................................. E-1 E-3 PROFICIENCY FLIGHTS ................................................................................. E-2 E-4 AIRCRAFT SECURITY INSPECTIONS ........................................................... E-2

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F-1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCES (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998)F-1

F-2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (AGAR 452.211-74) (FEB 1988) ......................F-1

F-3 CONTRACT AND PERFORMANCE PERIODS ................................................F-1

F-4 POST SEASON USE PERIOD ..........................................................................F-3 F-5 OPTIONAL USE PERIOD .................................................................................F-3

SECTION G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G-1 PAYMENT PROCEDURES .............................................................................. G-1

G-2 FLIGHT TIME MEASUREMENT ...................................................................... G-1 G-3 PAYMENT FOR FLIGHT .................................................................................. G-1 G-4 PAYMENT FOR AVAILABILITY/UNAVAILABILITY ....................................... G-2

G-5 PAYMENT FOR EXTENDED STANDBY ......................................................... G-2

G-6 REIMBURSEMENT FOR MOBILIZATION AND DEMOBILIZATION COSTS . G-2

G-7 PAYMENT FOR OVERNIGHT ALLOWANCE (PERSONNEL) ........................ G-2

G-8 MISCELLANEOUS COSTS TO THE CONTRACTOR ..................................... G-3

G-9 PAYMENT FOR FUEL – US GOVERNMENT AIR CARD PROGRAM ............ G-3

SECTION H – SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H-1 CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION (AGAR 452.224-70) (FEB 1988) ..... H-1

H-2 POST AWARD CONFERENCE (AGAR 452.215-73) (NOV 1996) .................. H-1

H-3 COMMERCIAL FILMING AND VIDEOTAPING ............................................... H-2

PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES

I-1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-2) (FEB 1998) .. I-1

I-2 UPDATES OF PUBLICLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION REGARDING

RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (FAR 52.209-9) (JAN 2011) .............................. I-2

I-3 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT

(FAR 52.217-9)(MAR 2000) ............................................................................... I-3

I-4 STATEMENT OF EQUIVALENT RATES FOR FEDERAL HIRES

(FAR 52.222-42) (MAY 1989) ............................................................................. I-3

I-5 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE .......................................................... I-4

I-6 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE ........................................................................... I-4 iii

I-7 EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION (FAR 52.222-54) (JAN 2009) . I-4

I-8 ATTACHMENTS TO STATEMENTS OR WORK/SPECIFICATIONS ................ I-8

(AGAR 452.211-73) (FEB 1988) ........................................................................ I-8 I-9 INSURANCE COVERAGE(AGAR 452.228-71) (NOV 1996) ............................. I-8

PART III LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

SECTION J – LIST OF EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT 1 – BASIC AIRCRAFT EQUIPMENT AND FIRE EQUIPMENT .................... J-2

EXHIBIT 2 – STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY PROGRAM ................................................ J-3 EXHIBIT 3 – AVIONICS ............................................................................................. J-13 EXHIBIT 4 – FLIGHT EQUIPMENT ........................................................................... J-20

EXHIBIT 5 – FIRST AID KIT AERONAUTICAL ......................................................... J-21

EXHIBIT 6 – SURVIVAL KIT – AERONAUTICAL (LOWER 48 AND ALASKA) ....... J-22

EXHIBIT 7 – AIRCRAFT MARKINGS ........................................................................ J-24 EXHIBIT 8 – LOAD REFERENCE CHART ................................................................ J-25

EXHIBIT 9 – DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE REQUIREMENTS (ALASKA) .............. J-26

EXHIBIT 10 – US GOVERNMENT AIR CARD FUEL PROGRAM ............................ J-30

EXHIBIT 11 – SYNOPSIS OF AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM ............................... J-34 EXHIBIT 12 – DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS .............................................. J-36

EXHIBIT 13 – DEPARTMENT OF LABOR WAGE DETERMINATIONS ................... J-41

EXHIBIT 14 – AIRCRAFT RECORDS AND MANUALS ............................................ J-56

EXHIBIT 15 - AIRCRAFT FLIGHT & MAINTENANCE LOG - SAMPLE - .......... J-57

EXHIBIT 16 – AIRTANKER INSPECTION FORM ..................................................... J-58 EXHIBIT 17 – AIRCREW TRAINING FORM .............................................................. J-60

EXHIBIT 18 – CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION .............................. J-61

PART IV – REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION K – REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER STATEMENTS OF

OFFERORS OR RESPONDENTS

K-1 CERTIFICATE OF INDEPENDENT PRICE DETERMINATION

(FAR 52.203-2) (APR 1985) ............................................................................. K-1

K-2 ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

(FAR 52.204-8) (MAY 2011) ............................................................................. K-2

K-3 CERTIFICATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS

(FAR 52.209-5) (APR 2010) ............................................................................ K-6

K-4 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS

(FAR 52.209-7)(JAN 2011) .............................................................................. K-8

K-5 SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REPRESENTATIONS.

(FAR 52.219-1) (APR 2011) ............................................................................. K-9

K-6 PREVIOUS CONTRACTS AND COMPLIANCE REPORTS

(FAR 52.222-22) (FEB 1999) ......................................................................... K-13

K-7 AFFIRMATIVE ACTION COMPLIANCE (FAR 52.222-25) (APR 1984) ........ K-13

iv

SECTION L- INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS OR

RESPONDENTS

L-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE ...............L-1

(FAR 52.252-1) (FEB 1998) ..............................................................................L-1 L-2 INCREMENTAL FUNDING (48 CFR 3452.232-71) (AUG 1987).......................L-1

L-3 INQUIRIES (AGAR 452.204-70) (FEB 1988) ....................................................L-1 L-4 TYPE OF CONTRACT (FAR 52.216-1) (APR 1984) .........................................L-1 L-5 SERVICE OF PROTEST (FAR 52.233-2) (SEP 2006) ......................................L-2

L-6 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF TECHNICAL AND BUSINESS

PROPOSALS (AGAR 452.215-71) (SEP 1999) ................................................L-2

L-7 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS (AGAR 452.215-72) (FEB 1988) ...............L-8

L-8 REALISM IN PROPOSALS ...............................................................................L-9

L-9 PRE-BID/PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE (AGAR 452.237-71) (FEB 1988) L-9

SECTION M – EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

M-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE .............. M-1

(FAR 52.252-1) (FEB 1998) ............................................................................. M-1 M-2 EVALUATION CRITERIA OF PROPOSALS ................................................... M-1

M-3 EVALUATION METHOD .................................................................................. M-2 M-4 CONTRACT AWARD ....................................................................................... M-3

Part I THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

B-1

It is the intent of this solicitation to secure a Firm Fixed Price Multi-Year contract(s) not to exceed 10-years (5 year base with 5 one year options) for the daily availability rate. The U.S. Forest Service intends to award seven (7) line items for next generation turbine powered airtankers. Line items 1-3 will begin service in calendar year 2012 and will have a base period of five (5) years with five (5) one year options. Line items 4-7 will begin service in calendar year 2013 and will have a base period of five (5) years with four (4) one year options. For each line item awarded the Government will have the option to add an additional four (4) airtankers (two (2) in year two and two (2) in year 3) to the contract for a total potential of 5 airtankers starting in year three of the base contract period. The flight rate will be an unknown quantity with no guarantee of flight hours given by the Government. Proposed aircraft flight rates shall be dry rates with the Government providing fuel through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) AIR Card program. The contractor shall provide a second means of paying for fuel during instances when the DLA card is not accepted. The Government may award a single contract or multiple awards based on the outcome of the evaluation process. Contract(s) shall be awarded in 2012 with the first program year of the resulting contract(s) beginning at the time of award. The solicitation is written to include the requirements for each program year. Award(s) will not be made on less than the first program year requirements. If the Government determines before award that only the first program year requirements are needed, the Government’s evaluation of the price or estimated cost and fee shall consider only the first year. Cancellation of this contract can occur if it is determined that the agency will not have the necessary funds to continue this program. If a cancellation were to occur, contractors would be eligible to receive compensation. The compensation would cover only eligible expenses up to the percentages outlined for the cancellation ceiling (below) in accordance with FAR clause 52.217-2 Cancellation Under Multiyear Contracts (Section I – below). The proposed percentages are the maximum percent of the total cost for each program year to be set aside for the cancellation ceiling and date/period and are as follows:

First Program Year 45% October 1, 2013 Second Program Year 42% October 1, 2014 Third Program Year 39% October 1, 2015 Fourth Program Year 36% October 1, 2016

These common averages for the cancellation ceiling were estimated by taking the average of total projected dollars for next generation airtankers and divided by estimated overhead and pre-season costs plus a percentage of costs anticipated to be amortized over the five (5) year base contract period.

Contractors will not be eligible for compensation if option periods are not exercised. The date/period of time on these contract(s) 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.

Offerors may submit offers for any or all of the line items located in the Schedule of Items for which they wish to be considered. The Schedule of Items allows offerors to bid aircraft for the first year of the contract and the Sub-Clin Items are for offering additional airtankers for years two (2) and three (3) of awarded contract(s). In years two (2) and three (3) of the awarded contract(s), at the discretion of the Government, additional airtankers may be ordered at the Government’s option.

All prices for this solicitation are to be priced out by the offeror(s) for each continuing year.

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

Part I THE SCHEDULE

B-2

After award, the offerors will work to have their offered aircraft ready to perform for the 2012 and 2013 fire season. Based on a later than expected contract award date, line items 1, 2 and 3 will have a postponed MAP 60 days later than shown for 2012. These 60 days will be garnered (accrued) and distributed back over the remaining 5 year base period. Any days beyond this 60 day point will be assessed unavailability and shall be subject to Termination for Default. When the Mandatory Availability Period (MAP) period begins, any awarded Line Item aircraft not ready to perform shall be subject to Termination for Default. MAP opening dates 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 plus or minus 5 days. Changes to the beginning and ending date of the MAP period shall be made and communicated to the contractors by the Contracting Officer (CO) on or before February 20th of the performance year.

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

Exclusive Use Fixed-Wing Airtanker Services National Office

PART I THE SCHEDULE

B-3

B-1 SCHEDULE OF ITMES

Schedule of Items – Year 1

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

1,2 Daily Availability

Rate Hourly Flight

Rate Daily Optional/Post

Use Rate

1 160

May 20, 2012

2 160 June 5, 2012

3 160 June 20, 2012

4 160 April 5, 2013

5 160 April 20, 2013

6 160 April 30, 2013

7 160 May 5, 2013

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

For items 1,2 and 3 the

MAP dates may slide to accommodate a later than expected award date. The projected MAP dates may slide up to 60 days from projected dates above (See page B-2 for details).

Schedule of Items – Year 2

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily Availability

Rate Hourly Flight

Rate Daily Optional/Post

Base 1 160

April 20, 2013

Sub Clin 1B 160

1C 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2013

Sub Clin 2B 160

2C 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2013

Sub Clin 3B 160

3C 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2014

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2014

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2014

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2014

Sub Clin 7B

7C 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-4

Schedule of Items – Year 3

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily

Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2014

1C 160

1D 160

1E 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2014

Sub Clin 2B 160

2C 160

2D 160

2E 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2014

Sub Clin 3B 160

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2015

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

4D 160

4E 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2015

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

5D 160

5E 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2015

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

6D 160

6E 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2015

Sub Clin 7B 160

7C 160

7D 160

7E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-5

Schedule of Items – Year 4

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily

Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2015

1C 160

1D 160

1E 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2015

Sub Clin 2B 160

2C 160

2D 160

2E 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2015

Sub Clin 3B 160

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2016

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

4D 160

4E 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2016

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

5D 160

5E 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2016

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

6D 160

6E 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2016

Sub Clin 7B 160

7C 160

7D 160

7E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-6

Schedule of Items – Year 5

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily

Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2016

1C 160

1D 160

1E 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2016

Sub Clin 2B 160

2C 160

2D 160

2E 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2016

Sub Clin 3B 160

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2017

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

4D 160

4E 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2017

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

5D 160

5E 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2017

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

6D 160

6E 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2017

Sub Clin 7B 160

7C 160

7D 160

7E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-7

Schedule of Items – Option 1 (Year 6)

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily

Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2017

1C 160

1D 160

1E 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2017

Sub Clin 2B 160

2C 160

2D 160

2E 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2017

Sub Clin 3B 160

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2018

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

4D 160

4E 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2018

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

5D 160

5E 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2018

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

6D 160

6E 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2018

Sub Clin 7B 160

7C 160

7D 160

7E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-8

Schedule of Items – Option 2 (Year 7)

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily

Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2018

1C 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2018

2C 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2018

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2019

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

4D 160

4E 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2019

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

5D 160

5E 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2019

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

6D 160

6E 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2019

Sub Clin 7B 160

7C 160

7D 160

7E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-9

Schedule of Items – Option 3 (Year 8)

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily

Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2019

1C 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2019

2C 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2019

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2020

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

4D 160

4E 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2020

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

5D 160

5E 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2020

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

6D 160

6E 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2020

Sub Clin 7B 160

7C 160

7D 160

7E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-10

Schedule of Items – Option 4 (Year 9)

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily

Availability Rate

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2020

1C 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2020

2C 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2020

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

Base 4 160 June 5, 2021

Sub Clin 4B 160

4C 160

4D 160

4E 160

Base 5 160 June 10, 2021

Sub Clin 5B 160

5C 160

5D 160

5E 160

Base 6 160 June 20, 2021

Sub Clin 6B 160

6C 160

6D 160

6E 160

Base 7 160 June 30, 2021

Sub Clin 7B 160

7C 160

7D 160

7E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-11

Schedule of Items – Option 5 (Year 10)

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date

Daily Availability

Rate Hourly Flight

Rate Daily Optional/Post

April 20, 2021

1C 160

Base 2 160 May 5, 2021

2C 160

Base 3 160 May 20, 2021

3C 160

3D 160

3E 160

On or about, ± 5 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

B-12

B-2 OFFERED AIRCRAFT AND ASSOCIATED DATA

Offered Aircraft

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

Payload a Normal

Operating Wt.

Cruise

(KTAS)

b

Hourly Fuel Consumption

(a) Payload conversion is made at an average of 9 pounds per gallon of fluid. Exact payload for each individual aircraft will be computed from documented weight and balance data. The target volume is 3000 to 5000 gallons of payload. Aircraft with 3000 gallons or more shall be evaluated higher over those aircraft offered with less capacity, and shall be considered first when determining award of Line Items. If there is a limited number of aircraft offered with 3000 to 5000 gallons capacity, aircraft with lower capacities shall be considered for award. The minimum acceptable payload for this solicitation is 2400 gallons.

(b) Cruise speed is computed at 12,000 feel MSL, at maximum payload, with power as required to maintain best speed without exceeding manufacturer or FAA operating limitations. Aircraft proposed shall be capable of 300 knots (KTAS) with maximum payload at Flight Level 180 as demonstrated by performance charts.

B-3 OFFERORS MAY QUALIFY THEIR OFFER BY INDICATING THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF

ITEMS WILLING TO ACCEPT IN THE FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD YEARS.

(a) Maximum Number of Items: ______________ year one

(b) Maximum Number of Items: ______________ year two

(c) Maximum Number of Items: ______________ year three

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. ______________ (Estimated Weight)

2. Flight crew. _____________ (Estimated Weight)

3. 2½ hours of fuel computed at the cruise speed specified in B-2. ______________ (Estimated Weight)

B-13

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

______________ (Estimated Weight)

5. Contracted retardant weight (payload). __________ (Weight using 9 pounds per gallon)

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

(b) Takeoff and Landing

1. Offered aircraft in accordance with the manufacturer’s normal 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 for the takeoff configuration.

2. 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 shall not be 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)

B-5 AIRCRAFT/RETARDANT TANK(S)

Offered turbine powered aircraft shall be Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) approved at least 45 days prior to the MAP.

B-6 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS

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

B-7 BASIC COVERAGE

Planned coverage is 6-Days ON & 1-Day OFF. Offerors may submit alternate proposals for 7 day coverage.

B-14

B-9 STANDBY HOURS

Crew and Aircraft must standby the first 9-hours of the day ordered by the Government. Crews may be required to remain on site for dispatch.

B-10 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE

Hours of standby in excess of the first 9 hours may be ordered by the Government. Rate is $45.00 per hour per authorized Flight Crewmember plus a mechanic. The maximum total daily hours will not exceed 14. (See Section I-4).

B-11 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

C-1

C-1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT

(a) It is the intent of this solicitation and any resultant contract to secure a Firm-Fixed Price Multi- Year (5 year base) with five (5) one year options contract not to exceed ten (10) years for turbine powered Fixed-Wing Airtanker(s) services fully operated by FAA qualified, FAA current, proficient and approved 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.

(1) Performance of these contract services may involve work and/or residence on Federal property (i.e., National Forests and National Parks, etc.). Contractor’s employees are expected to follow the rules of conduct established which apply to all Government and non- Government personnel working or residing on Government facilities.

(2) Personnel, who perform ineffectively, refuse to cooperate in the fulfillment of the contract objectives, or are unable or unwilling to adapt to field living conditions, or whose general performance is unsatisfactory or otherwise disruptive, may be required to be replaced.

(3) The CO shall notify the offeror of specifics of the unsatisfactory conduct and/or performance by the offeror’s personnel. The determination of unacceptability is at the sole discretion of the CO. When directed by the CO, the offeror shall replace unacceptable personnel.

C-2 CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVALS

(a) Aircraft shall conform to an approved type design, be maintained and operated in accordance with Type Certificate (TC) requirements and applicable Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs). The aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with an FAA approved inspection program and must include an FAA approved Supplemental Structural Inspection Document (SSID), Structural Inspection Document (SID), or Instruction for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) for the airframe structure, as applicable with an ICA and Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) approved by the manufacturer (or equivalent) and the FAA for the airtanker role.

(b) Contractors shall be certificated to meet 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 137(Agricultural Aircraft Operations). Any aircraft operated shall be listed by make, model, series, and registration number on the Operators Certificates.

http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/aviation/av_library/index.html

C-2

(c) Contractors who only hold a 14 CFR Part 137 Operators Certificate are also required to hold a 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Station Certificate with a limited airframe rating for offered aircraft.

Contractors who also hold a 14 CFR Part 121 or Part 125 Operating Certificate may use a single 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Station designated to the CO in writing by the contractor. All maintenance shall be performed under the contractor’s or their designated Repair Station Certificate.

(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).

(f) Any modification or alteration to current contracted fleet, which affects the aircraft performance, flight characteristics, or operational limitations, must be approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board

(IAB).

(g) Airtankers not in existence at the time of offer may be offered provided aircraft and tank system has obtained an approval by the IAB 45 days prior to the beginning of the Mandatory Availability Period (MAP) for the item offered. Airtankers offered under this clause shall be identified by type and ―N‖ number.

C-3 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY

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 FAR Clause 52.245-1 (AUG 2010).

C-4 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS

(a) General

Aircraft must be turbine powered and have been issued a Standard or a Restricted Category Airworthiness Certificate and shall meet 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

Original Equipment Manufacturer’s (OEM) or equivalent approval for the aircraft for aerial dispersant of liquids

2. An OEM or equivalent Structural Integrity Program for the fire fighting role.

Note: Refer to Section J, Exhibit 2 for critical information regarding engineering, maintenance, inspection, and data collection and monitoring required by this contract. Failure to accomplish items and maintain compliance with the requirements identified in this exhibit will result in termination of this contract. The Contractor shall keep and maintain programs necessary to

C-3 assure continued compliance. The development and maintenance of this program is a material part of the performance of the contract. When, in the sole judgment of the CO, the program does not comply the Government shall terminate the contract for cause as provided in the ―Contract Terms and Conditions.‖

(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.

(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) that are a safety of flight item or identified by an Airworthiness Directive (AD) note 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 mandatory component retirement, replacement or overhaul times shall be adhered to as specified in the OEM Airworthiness Limitations Section or equivalent OEM document.

FAA approved extensions if applicable to items identified in the required Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) required by Exhibit 2, paragraph D are not allowed under any circumstances.

C-4

(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 flight log similar to that required by 14 CFR 135.65(a) shall be kept with the aircraft.

The log will contain the minimum items identified in Sec tion J, Exhibit 14.

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

(9) Aircraft shall be weighed and configured as an airtanker within the 12-months prior to the start of the first year’s MAP period, and every 36 months thereafter. The aircraft shall also be weighed following any major repair or major alteration or change to the equipment list which significantly affects the center of gravity of the aircraft.

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

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

(12) 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.

(13) Contractors may request up to five (5) days of break in service for maintenance during the MAP. These breaks may or may not be consecutive and shall be scheduled with the Government’s concurrence. End dates for the MAP will be adjusted as days are used.

The 5 days are not included in the 160 days of the MAP.

(b) Structural Integrity Program

Refer to Section J, Exhibit 2. This Exhibit contains critical information regarding engineering, maintenance, inspection, and data collection and monitoring required by this contract. Failure to accomplish items and maintain compliance with the requirements identified in this exhibit will result in termination of this contract. The Contractor shall keep and maintain programs necessary to assure continued compliance. The development and maintenance of this program is a material part of the performance of the contract. When, in the sole judgment of the CO, the program does not comply the Government shall terminate the contract for cause as provided in the ―Contract Terms and Conditions.‖

(c) Engines and Propellers

(1) The maximum Time Since Rebuild or Time Since Overhaul (TSR/TSO) permitted on any

C-5 engine installed on a contract airtanker shall not exceed the manufacturer’s approved or recommended times nor be operated when the efficiency becomes less than 95%.

(2) Extensions to maximum engine TSR/TSO must be approved by the FAA, 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.

(3) Each engine shall have at least 100 hours time remaining before any overhaul or hot section inspection at the start of the Pre-Season (Mandatory) or shall be ―backed-up‖ by a substitute engine having more than 100 hours time remaining and installed in a QEC (Quick Engine Change) unit.

Note: QEC unit is defined as the engine complete with engine mount, accessories, and the necessary wiring and tubing assembled in such a manner that it can be installed on the aircraft in a minimum amount of time. A QEC unit need not have the cowling or propeller installed to be a complete unit. Maintenance records that meet 14 CFR Part 91 shall be kept with the QEC unit.

(4) 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.

(5) 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):

(i) 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).

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

(iii) 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).

(iv) Any additional inspections or maintenance required by either the airframe or engine manufacturer shall be accomplished.

(6) 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.

C-6

(d) Parts

Replacement parts shall be approved under 14 CFR 21.8 and shall have FAA, Military or OEM 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) 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 use 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

(1) 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.

(2) Aircraft shall be operated within recommended flight envelope limitations. Aircraft operating in turbulent conditions shall not exceed authorized penetration speeds for the aircraft.

C-7

(c) Loading and Refueling

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

(1) Contractors may propose procedures for hot loading of retardant into their aircraft with supporting information to include a risk based analysis for the Government to consider.

(2) Contractors may propose procedures for simultaneous loading of retardant and refueling with supporting information to include a risk based analysis for the Government to consider.

(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 an agency approved flight plan for resource ordered flights. Contractor flight plans are not acceptable. FAA Flight plans should 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 fully loaded with retardant until dispatched to a fire.

Contractors may propose partial load configurations with supporting information to include a risk based analysis for the Government to consider.

(2) In the event of a cancelled or aborted mission while still on the ground, and if required for maintenance, retardant shall be off-loaded from the aircraft. If off-loading capabilities do not exist, then the load shall be jettisoned in a designated area and cost will be charged to the fire. Contractors shall provide company guidance in their proposal addressing when landing with a partial or full load is acceptable.

(3) In the event of a cancelled or aborted mission after takeoff, a portion or all of the load shall normally 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)

(4) 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

C-8 without the supervision of a Leadplane (LP) Aerial Supervision Module (ASM), or Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS).

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

(…