Solicitation AG-024B-S-12-9109.pdf

OFFEROR’S COPY

(Ref. 48 CFR 1)

Issuing Office:

U.S. Forest Service, Contracting National Interagency Fire Center 3833 S Development Ave, MS 1100 Boise, ID 83705-5354

This solicitation can be downloaded from the following Internet site: https://www.fbo.gov

Offers Are Solicited For:

Exclusive Use Aerial Survey Light Fixed Wing Aircraft Services - USFS Regions 1 & 4

Solicitation No:

AG-024B-S-12-9109

Issued Date:

04/04/2012

IMPORTANT – NOTICE TO OFFEROR

- Offers will be due on 26 April 2012 @ 4:00 PM Mountain Daylight Time.

- The offeror shall submit the following items in response to this solicitation:

1. SF-1449, blocks 30a-30c: Complete, date, and sign.

2. Fill in the appropriate information requested under section B-2, B-3, and B-10.

3. Provide two (2) copies of your Business/Technical proposal in response to section E-1 of the solicitation. All information on your technical proposal shall be provided via a compact disk or USB thumb drive.

4. Provide your responses to Section E-5 (Representations and Certifications) and E-6 (Certifications Regarding Responsibility Matters) of the solicitation.

THE SOLICITATION PACKAGE SHALL BE RETURNED TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:

U.S. Forest Service, Contracting National Interagency Fire Center Attn: Solicitation No. AG-024B-S-12-9109 Owyhee Building – MS 1100 ATTN: Mr. Jeff McGinley 3833 S. Development Ave.

Boise, ID 83705

No facsimile (FAX) or e-mail offers will be accepted.

Bidders’ questions must be submitted and received by mail, e-mail or fax NLT 20 April 2012. E-mail: jtmcginley@fs.fed.us. Fax labeled as Bidders Questions for Solicitation No. AG-024B-S-12- 9109. Or mail to the address identified above.

Offerors may contact Jeff McGinley for information about this solicitation at 208-387-5350.

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

Previous editions of this form are obsolete. FS-6300-44 (11/79) https://www.fbo.gov/

Solicitation AG-024B-S-12-9109 US Forest Service Exclusive Use Aerial Survey Light Fixed-Wing Aircraft Regions 1 & 4 National Office

TABLE OF CONTENTS

i

SECTION A - SOLICTATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

STANDARD FORM 1449

SECTION B – SCHEDULE OF ITEMS, REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

B-1 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS B-1

B-2 DESIGNATED BASE(S) FOR ITEMS 0001 THRU 0004 B-2

B-3 PROPOSED AIRCRAFT AND AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS B-6

B-4 PILOT REQUIREMENTS B-7

B-5 FOREST AERIAL DETECTION SURVEY HISTORICAL DATA B-8

B-6 FUEL PRICE BASIS B-8

B-7 REQUIRED AVIONICS SYSTEM B-8

B-8 AUTHORIZED ORDERING B-8

B-9 MISSION FLIGHT PROFILE B-9

B-10 AIRCRAFT PICTURES B-9

SECTION C - DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/EXHIBITS

C-1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT C-1

C-2 GENERAL CERTIFICATIONS C-1

C-3 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY C-1

C-4 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS C-1

C-5 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE C-4

C-6 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT SECURITY C-5

C-7 AVIONICS REQUIREMENTS C-6

C-8 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED AVIONICS SYSTEMS C-6

C-9 AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS C-22

C-10 OPERATIONS C-22

C-11 PERSONNEL C-26

C-12 CONDUCT AND REPLACEMENT OF PERSONNEL C-27

C-13 SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF PERSONNEL C-28

C-14 SUBSTITUTION OR REPLACEMENT OF PERSONNEL, AIRCRAFT, AND EQUIPMENT C-28

C-15 RELIEF PILOT C-28

C-16 FLIGHT HOUR AND DUTY LIMITATIONS C-29

C-17 ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND SAFETY C-30

C-18 MISHAPS C-30

C-19 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) C-31

C-20 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE C-32

C-21 PRE-USE INSPECTION EXPENSES C-33

C-22 RE-INSPECTION EXPENSES C-33

C-23 INSPECTIONS DURING USE C-34

C-24 CONTRACT PERIOD AND RENEWAL OPTION C-34

C-25 AUTHORIZED ORDERING ACTIVITIES C-34

C-26 ORDERING PROCEDURES C-34

C-27 DESIGNATED BASE(S) AND MANDATORY AVAILABILITY PERIOD C-35

C-28 NON-PERFORMANCE DURING THE MANDATORY AVAILABILITY PERIOD C-35

C-29 OPTIONAL PERFORMANCE PERIOD C-36

C-30 POINT OF HIRE C-36

C-31 ASSIGNED WORK LOCATION(S) C-36

ii

C-32 PAYMENT FOR ORDERED STANDBY C-36

C-33 PAYMENT FOR FLIGHT C-37

C-34 PAYMENT FOR CANCELLED, DELAYED OR SHORT DURATION FLIGHT C-38

C-35 TRANSPORTATION OF RELIEF PILOT(S) AND ADDITIONAL PILOT COSTS C-38

C-36 PAYMENT FOR SUBSTITUTE OR REPLACEMENT AIRCRAFT C-38

C-37 ADDITIONAL AIRCRAFT AFTER CONTRACT AWARD C-38

C-38 FOOD AND DRINK C-38

C-39 MISCELLANEOUS COSTS TO THE CONTRACTOR C-38

C-40 PAYMENT FOR OVERNIGHT ALLOWANCE C-39

C-41 PAYMENT PROCEDURES C-39

C-42 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM (CPARS) C-40

C-43 EXCISE TAXES C-40

C-44 DEFINITIONS C-40

C-45 ABBREVIATIONS C-44

C-46 WAGE DETERMINATION C-46

PERFORMANCE BY GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED PILOT C-50

SECTION D - CONTRACT CLAUSES

D-1 CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE D-1

D-2 ADDENDUM TO 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS -

COMMERCIAL ITEMS D-1

D-3 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL ITEMS D-1

D-4 UPDATES OF PUBLICALLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION REGARDING

RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS D-7

D-5 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES D-7

D-6 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT D-7

D-7 STATEMENT OF EQUIVALENT RATES FOR FEDERAL HIRES D-8

D-8 ECONOMIC PRICE ADJUSTMENT CONTRACT FLIGHT RATES D-8

D-9 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE D-9

D-10 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT

STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS COMMERCIAL ITEMS D-10

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS – COMMERCIAL ITEMS E-1

E-2 EVALUATION-COMMERCIAL ITEMS E-2

E-3 AWARD PROCESS E-3

E-4 LIGHT FIXED WING MISSION SAFETY BRIEFING BULLET TOPICS E-3

E-5 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS-COMMERCIAL ITEMS E-4

E-6 CERTIFICATIONS REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS E-18

E-7 SERVICE OF PROTEST (FAR 52.233-2) (SEP 2006) …………………………………………………………….. E-22

E-8 FY 2012 APPROPRIATIONS RESTRICTIONS ON USE OF FUNDS TO ENTER INTO

FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS WITH CORPORATIONS CONVICTED OF A FELONY

OR DELINQUENT WITH TAXES - 02/03/2012 …………………………………………….. E-

EXHIBIT 1 - PAST PERFORMANCE INFORMATION E-22

EXHIBIT 2 - SAFETY AND TRAINING E-23

iii

EXHIBIT 3 - SUMMARY OF ACCIDENTS E-25

EXHIBIT 4 - SYNOPSIS OF SAFETY PROGRAM E-26

EXHIBIT 5 - LIGHT FIXED WING MISSION SAFETY BRIEFING BULLET TOPICS E-28

EXHIBIT 6 – PILOT EXPERIENCE INFORMATION E-299

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

1. REQUISITION NUMBER

2. CONTRACT NO.

3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

AG-024B-S-12-9109

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE

DATE

04/04/2012

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME

JEFFREY T. MCGINLEY

b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

Phone (208) 387-5350

FAX (208) 387-5384

8. OFFER DUE DATE/

LOCAL TIME

04/26/2012

4:00 PM MST

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: 100% FOR:

U.S. FOREST SERVICE, CONTRACTING

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER

OWYHEE BUILDING – MS 1100

3833 S DEVELOPMENT AVE

BOISE, ID 83705-5354

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(EDWOSB)

NAICS: 481211

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

8 (A)

SIZE STANDARD:

1500 Employees

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TON UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

See Block 9

17a. CONTRACTOR/ CODE FACILITY 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

OFFEROR CODE

ALBUQUERQUE SERVICE CENTER

INCIDENT BUSINESS – CONTRACTS

101B SUN AVENUE, NE

ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87109

TELEPHONE NO. NINE-DIGIT DUNS NO. .

17b CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN

OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW

IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

SEE SECTION B (ATTACHED)

AERIAL DETECTION SURVEY EXCLUSIVE USE

LIGHT FIXED WING AIRCRAFT SERVICES

USFS REGIONS 1 & 4

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN 1 .

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

HEREIN.

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. _________________ __ OFFER

DATED _______________ . YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK

5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET

FORTH HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNED (Type or pr int) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or pr int)

JEFFREY T. MCGINLEY

31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 5/2011)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

SECTION B

SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES

B-1

THE FOLLOWING PAGES CONTAIN THE INDIVIDUAL SCHEDULE OF ITEMS. PLEASE NOTE

THAT EACH ITEM MAY BE PROPOSED INDIVIDUALLY OR ANY COMBINATION OF ITEMS. THIS

IS A COMMERCIAL ITEM SOLICITATION AND AWARD MAY BE MADE TO MULTIPLE

OFFERORS IN ACCORDANCE WITH FAR CLAUSE 52.212-1.

B-1 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

This is a contract for Forest Health Protection (FHP) Aerial Detection Survey Light Fixed Wing fully operated and maintained aircraft services on an exclusive use basis. Aircraft shall meet the requirements of this schedule and the specifications included herein.

Awards will not be made for aircraft not considered suitable for the Government’s needs, or at costs determined to be unreasonable. Materially unbalanced proposals between the base year and option year may be rejected.

Furnish Fixed Wing Aircraft fully operated and maintained on a Firm Fixed Price basis, meeting the requirements of this schedule and the specifications for operation at the designated base and Mandatory Available periods shown below. Contract service is intended primarily for Regions 1 and 4 FHP Aerial Detection Survey.

B-2

B-2 DESIGNATED BASE(S) FOR ITEMS 0001 THRU 0004

ITEM NO. 0001 Aerial Detection Survey Light Fixed Wing Services, Heber City, Utah

Designated Base: Item #0001 – Heber City, Utah

Location: Heber City Municipal Airport, 40-28.541357N / 111-26.296017W

Mandatory Availability Period: June 25 – September 30, 2012 Net Days: 68

A tentative schedule will be provided at the pre-work meeting prior to the start of the Mandatory Performance Period. During the Mandatory Performance Period, the aircraft shall be available at the designated base within 12 hours’ notice from time of order. Weekend usage is not normal but may occur with 12 hours prior notification.

The Offeror warrants that the price(s) offered do not include any contingency amount for price adjustments provided in Section D-8 - Economic Price Adjustment.

Aircraft will be available for use Monday through Friday, excluding holidays with occasional Saturday usage with a 12 hour advance notification.

ITEM #0001

Heber City, Utah

Mandatory Performance Period Hourly

Flight Rate

Ordered Standby

Hourly Rate*

Optional Period Hourly Flight Rate**

Additional Pilot

Hourly Rate

Home Base for Optional

Period

Base Year (May 10, 2012

Thru May 9, 2013)

Option Year 1 (May 10, 2013

May 9, 2014)

Option Year 2 (May 10, 2014

May 9, 2015)

Option Year 3 (May 10, 2015

May 9, 2016)

Option Year 4 (May 10, 2016

May 9, 2017)

*Note the current definition of ordered standby used in this contract is not equivalent to the definition used in previous contracts. See C-32 Payment for Ordered Standby.

**Optional Use Rate will not be used in the evaluation of proposals.

B-3

ITEM NO. 0002 Aerial Detection Survey Light Fixed Wing Services, Boise, Idaho

Designated Base: Item #0002 – Boise, Idaho

Location: Boise, Idaho Airport, 43-33-51.7000N / 116-13-22.3000W

Mandatory Availability Period: June 25 – September 30, 2012 Net Days: 68

A tentative schedule will be provided at the pre-work meeting prior to the start of the Mandatory Performance Period. During the Mandatory Performance Period, the aircraft shall be available at the designated base within 12 hours’ notice from time of order. Weekend usage is not normal but may occur with 12 hours prior notification.

The Offeror warrants that the price(s) offered do not include any contingency amount for price adjustments provided in Section D-8 - Economic Price Adjustment.

Aircraft will be available for use Monday through Friday, excluding holidays with occasional Saturday usage with a 12 hour advance notification.

ITEM #0002

Boise, Idaho

Mandatory Performance Period Hourly

Flight Rate

Ordered Standby

Hourly Rate*

Optional Period Hourly Flight Rate**

Additional Pilot

Hourly Rate

Home Base for Optional

Period

Base Year (May 10, 2012

B-4

ITEM NO. 0003 Aerial Detection Survey Light Fixed Wing Services, Missoula, Montana

Designated Base: Item #0003 – Missoula, Montana

Location: Missoula, Montana International Airport, 46-54-58.7000N / 114-05-26.0000W

Mandatory Availability Period: June 25 – September 30, 2012 Net Days: 68

A tentative schedule will be provided at the pre-work meeting prior to the start of the Mandatory Performance Period. During the Mandatory Performance Period, the aircraft shall be available at the designated base within 12 hours’ notice from time of order. Weekend usage is not normal but may occur with 12 hours prior notification.

The Offeror warrants that the price(s) offered do not include any contingency amount for price adjustments provided in Section D-8 - Economic Price Adjustment.

Aircraft will be available for use Monday through Friday, excluding holidays with occasional Saturday usage with a 12 hour advance notification.

ITEM #0003

Missoula, Montana

Mandatory Performance Period Hourly

Flight Rate

Ordered Standby

Hourly Rate*

Optional Period Hourly Flight Rate**

Additional Pilot

Hourly Rate

Home Base for Optional

Period

Base Year (May 10, 2012

B-5

ITEM NO. 0004 Aerial Detection Survey Light Fixed Wing Services, Missoula, Montana

Designated Base: Item #0004 – Missoula, Montana

Location: Missoula, Montana International Airport, 46-54-58.7000N / 114-05-26.0000W

Mandatory Availability Period: June 25 – September 30, 2012 Net Days: 68

A tentative schedule will be provided at the pre-work meeting prior to the start of the Mandatory Performance Period. During the Mandatory Performance Period, the aircraft shall be available at the designated base within 12 hours’ notice from time of order. Weekend usage is not normal but may occur with 12 hours prior notification.

The Offeror warrants that the price(s) offered do not include any contingency amount for price adjustments provided in Section D-8 - Economic Price Adjustment.

Aircraft will be available for use Monday through Friday, excluding holidays with occasional Saturday usage with a 12 hour advance notification.

ITEM #0004

Missoula, Montana

Mandatory Performance Period Hourly

Flight Rate

Ordered Standby

Hourly Rate*

Optional Period Hourly Flight Rate**

Additional Pilot

Hourly Rate

Home Base for Optional

Period

Base Year (May 10, 2012

B-6

B-3 PROPOSED AIRCRAFT AND AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS (Shown by an X in the Block)

Vendor Aircraft Information

Item No. Make/Model/Year N#

HP -

note (a)

Fuel -note (b)

Useful Load

Pax Avionics – note (c)

Item No. Make/Model/Year Top Cruising Speed Slowest Safe Cruising Speed

(a) If turbo-charged indicate by adding a “(T)” after the entry. If turbo-prop indicate by adding a “(TP)” after the entry.

(b) Fuel consumption expressed in gallons per hour at 65% power, at 5000 feet MSL, at ISA, as stated in Aircraft Flight Manual.

(c) Indicate avionics type. Refer to section C under avionics requirements for types and definitions. Enter R for reconnaissance, AT1, AT2, AT3, and AT4 for air tactical types 1 through 4.

(d) Aircraft must have a minimum 900 lbs. useful load.

B-7

AIRCRAFT ITEMS 0001 0002 0003 0004

Single Engine – 4 Place (Minimum) X X X X

Single Engine – 6 Place

Single Engine – 6 Place with min. 285 hp rating

Large Cargo Doors

Multi Engine – (# of seats: __4__)

High Wing X X X X

Low Wing

Turbocharged/Turboprop X X

Jet

Has a minimum top cruise speed of 130 kts X X X X

Can fly survey speed of 80 kts in mountainous terrain

X X X X

Pressurized*

Non-Pressurized*

Air Tactical Type 1

Air Tactical Type 2

Air Tactical Type 3

Air Tactical Type 4

Resource Reconnaissance (See C.8 (b) for additional avionics requirements)

X X X X

Fire Surveillance/Reconnaissance

Flight meter displaying actual flight time in hours and tenths (squat switch or air switch)

Survival Kit (Year Around) X X X X

*Note: In Pressurized and non-pressurized aircraft, pilots shall meet 14 CFR Part 135.89 Standards.

B-4 PILOT REQUIREMENTS (Shown by an X in the Block)

PILOT REQUIREMENTS

(Authorizations may be obtained after award)

Relief Pilot(s) Required

PPE required (see C-19) X X X X

Mountain Remote Authorization

Fire Surveillance/ Reconnaissance

Air Tactical Coordination (Air Attack)

Mountainous Terrain Reconnaissance (Non-Fire) X X X X

B-8

B-5 FOREST AERIAL DETECTION SURVEY HISTORICAL DATA

The Government does not guarantee any flight hours under this contract. For informational purposes provided below is the estimated total number of flight hours flown under the previous contracts

FOREST AERIAL DETECTION SURVEY HISTORICAL DATA – Items 0001 thru 0004. (Total hours flown for all four items)

Item # Flight Hours

Flight Hours

Flight Hours

Flight Hours

Flight Hours

Total Flight Hours

0001- Heber City, UT

230.75 216.31 247.35 229.34 280.89 1,204.64

0002- Boise, ID

303.11 320.07 258.92 194.58 219.03 1,295.71

0003- Missoula, MT

278.14 281.59 302.88 261.52 274.42 1,398.55

0004- Missoula, MT

262.05 259.89 247.46 204.21 233.68 1,207.29

B-6 FUEL PRICE BASIS

The following stated fuel prices are the basis for economic price adjustment of the fuel portion of the flight rate, as stated in the Economic Price Adjustment clause (D-8) of this contract clause of this contract. Established fuel prices for all items are:

(a) $5.96/gallon for 100 LL Avgas

(b) $5.63/gallon for Jet A

Note: Only aviation grade fuels are acceptable for aircraft under this agreement.

B-7 REQUIRED AVIONICS SYSTEM

The avionics system listed in Section C, paragraph C-8 (b) and option #4 are required for this contract.

B-8 AUTHORIZED ORDERING

The following office(s) or individuals are authorized to order services under this Contract.

Item # Authorized Ordering Officials

Contracting Officers Representative (COR), Contract Inspectors, and additional individuals as authorized by the contracting officer

Contracting Officers Representative (COR), Contract Inspectors, and additional individuals as authorized by the contracting officer

0003 Northern Rockies Coordination Center (NRCC)

0004 Northern Rockies Coordination Center (NRCC)

B-9

B-9 MISSION FLIGHT PROFILE

The following is for information only. Changes to mission profile occur regularly. Forest Health Protection aerial survey flights occur between 500 to 1,500 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) in mountainous terrain. The emphasis is to allow the surveyor a view of the vegetation out the right side of the aircraft. There are two types of flight patterns used.

Grid flight pattern is flown with two surveyors from one side to the other of a designated area following a GPS route (predetermined heading) with waypoints. The flight path is offset a few miles and the reverse heading is flown to maintain parallel lines. This pattern is repeated until the designated area is surveyed.

Contour flight pattern is flown with one surveyor following topographic contours of drainages and sub-drainages of a watershed. Upon entering the mouth of a drainage, the pilot may fly the left ridge or drainage bottom, depending upon the width of the drainage valley, to the top of the drainage. Then make a right-hand turn and follow the right ridge or drainage bottom to the mouth of the drainage. This pattern continues in the next drainage or sub-drainage until the watershed is surveyed.

B-10 AIRCRAFT PICTURES

Offeror’s shall provide interior and exterior digital photographs of the aircraft in sufficient quantity and quality for the government to determine the general condition of the aircraft inside and out.

The exterior pictures should include the engine, cockpit, wings, and fuselage. The interior should include the instrument panel, seats, and windows.

SECTION C

DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/EXHIBITS

C-1

C-1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT

(a) The intent of this solicitation and any resultant contract is to obtain services on an Exclusive Use basis of light fixed wing aircraft fully operated by qualified personnel and equipped to meet specifications for use in administration and protection of Public Lands in Regions 1 and 4 of the Forest Service. Aircraft may be dispatched to other areas of the United States.

(b) The aircraft furnished may be used for fire support, project, law enforcement, and administrative flights. If the Contractor agrees to perform law enforcement flights, such agreement shall be in writing with the contracting officer.

(c) The Government has Interagency and cooperative agreements with Federal and State Agencies and private landholders. Aircraft may be dispatched under this contract for such use.

C-2 GENERAL CERTIFICATIONS

(a) Contractors shall hold a current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Carrier or Operating Certificate. Aircraft offered shall be listed by make, model, series, and registration number on the Operators 135 Certificate.

(b) Aircraft shall conform to its approved type design, be maintained and operated in accordance with the requirements of the 14 CFR 135 notwithstanding the aviation regulations of the States in which the aircraft may operate except those requirements specifically waived by the Government.

C-3 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY

(a) If Government Furnished Property (GFP) is provided, the Contractor shall be required to sign a property receipt document. Upon Government request, GFP shall be returned to the Government in accordance with GFP (Short Form) FAR Clause 52.245-4 (APR 1984).

(b) The Government will deliver the following items to the Contractor upon arrival at the assigned work location:

Item # Description Quantity

0001 Portable VHF-FM radios with female BNC to appropriate radio antenna adapters (Pomona 3837 (some marked POMONA4160) or equivalent) See Para C-8(c)(6)

2 each

A Supplemental Air Attack kit or a Supplemental Radio kit (Non-Air Attack) (GFE or Contractor furnished) (See Section C-8(e)(2)

(x) or (xi)) See C-8(c)(7)

1 each

C-4 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS

(a) Aircraft Performance Requirements

C-2

(1) Single engine aircraft shall have a power loading of not more than 13.5 pounds per horse power.

(2) Multi engine aircraft shall be capable of at least 200 horse power; per engine; any engine developing less than 240 horse power shall be turbo/super charged.

(3) Each takeoff shall meet aircraft climb performance requirements of 14 CFR.

Note: Items 1 & 2 above are the minimum requirements in accordance with FSH 5709.16 Chapter 30 paragraph 36.21. Only the Regional Aviation Officer may waiver this requirement by letter.

(B) Aircraft Condition and equipment. The aircraft shall be in airworthy condition throughout the performance period. All equipment required for original certification shall be installed and operable or be deferrable by an FAA approved Minimum Equipment List (MEL)

(1) All aircraft furnished under this contract shall be operable, free of damage, and in good working order. Aircraft systems and components shall be free of leaks, except within limitations specified by the manufacturer.

(2) The aircraft interior shall be clean and neat. There shall be no un-repaired tears, rips, cracks, or other damage to the interior. All interior materials shall meet FAA standards.

(3) The aircraft exterior finish, including the paint, shall be clean, neat, and in good condition (i.e. no severe fading or large areas of flaking or missing paint etc.). Military or other low visibility paint schemes are unacceptable. Any corrosion shall be within manufacturer or FAA acceptable limits.

(4) All windows and windshields shall be clean and free of scratches, cracks, crazing, distortion, or repairs, which hinder visibility. Repairs such as safety wire lacing and stop drilling of cracks are not acceptable as permanent repairs. Prior to acceptance, all temporarily repaired windows and windshields shall have permanent repairs completed or shall be replaced. Aircraft side windows shall be clear and free of window tinting.

(5) Fire extinguishers, as required by 14 CFR 135.155, shall be hand-held bottle(s), with a minimum of 1.5 lbs capacity and 2-B: C rating. Fire Extinguishers shall be maintained in accordance with current NFPA 10 standards and mounted with a quick release attachment accessible to the flight crew while seated.

(6) Each aircraft shall carry current copies of the following:

(i) The contract and all modifications.

(ii) DOT Exemption 9198 and the Interagency Aviation Transport of Hazardous Materials Handbook/Guide (NFES 1068) (if required)

(iii) Aeronautical charts covering area of operation

(iv) GPS data base card

C-3

(7) Cargo Restraint. The Contractor shall furnish tie downs, net(s), or cargo straps meeting the requirements of 14 CFR to restrain cargo while in flight.

(8) Safety Belts. The aircraft furnished under this contract shall have safety belts for all occupants and shoulder harnesses for front seat occupants meeting requirements of 14 CFR. The shoulder strap and lap belt shall fasten with a metal to metal single point quick release mechanism. Military style harnesses are acceptable. All occupants shall meet the above requirements during takeoffs and landings, when flying within 1,000 feet of the ground, and at other times as specified by the Pilot.

Lap belt and shoulder harness condition. The following are NOT acceptable:

(i) Webbing. Webbing that is frayed 5 percent or more, torn webbing, crushed webbing, swelled webbing that results in twice the thickness of original web, or if difficult to operate through hardware, creased webbing (no structural damage allowed), and sun deterioration if it results in severe fading, brittleness, discoloration, and stiffness.

(ii) Hardware. Buckle or other hardware is inoperable, nylon bushing at shoulder harness-to-lap belt connection missing or damaged, fabricated bushings or tie wraps used as bushings, rust/corrosion if not minor in nature, wear beyond normal use.

(iii) Stitches. Broken or missing stitches, severe fading or discoloring, inconsistent stitch pattern.

(iv) TSO Tags (see 14 CFR 21.607). Missing or illegible tags are unacceptable unless inspection can confirm the suitability of installed equipment.

(v) Age. Belts/fabric over 10 years from date of manufacture require close inspection because of the elements they are exposed to, but do not have to be replaced if it can be determined they are in serviceable condition and not life limited.

(9) First Aid Kit (Aeronautical). First aid kit shall be in a dust-proof and moisture-proof container. The kit shall be readily accessible to the Pilot and passengers. At a minimum, the contents shall include the following items:

Item Description Quantity

Adhesive bandage strips (3 inches long) 8

Antiseptic or alcohol wipes (packets) 10

Bandage compresses, (4 inches) 4

Triangular bandage compresses, 40 inch (sling) 2

Roller bandage, 4 inch x 5 yards (gauze) 2

Adhesive tape, 1 inch x 5 yards (standard roll) 1

Bandage scissors 1

Body Fluids Barrier Kit: 1

2-pair of non-latex surgical gloves

1-face shield

1-mouth-to-mouth barrier

1-protective gown

2-antiseptic towelettes

1-biohazard disposal bag

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Notes: Splints are recommended if space permits.

Kits may be commercially available types which are FAA approved for the appropriate number of crew and passengers carried.

(10) Survival Kit. Aircraft shall have sufficient equipment to sustain personnel for a 24-hour period. As a minimum, the survival kit shall include the following:

Knife Signal Mirror

Aviation-type Signal Flares (6-each) Matches (2-small boxes in waterproof containers)

Space Blanket (1-per occupant) Water (1-quart per occupant – not required when operating over areas with adequate drinking water)

Food (2-days emergency rations per occupant)

Candles

Collapsible Water Bag Whistle

Magnesium Fire Starter Nylon Rope or Parachute Cord (50 feet)

Suggested additional survival kit items (appropriate to the geographic area.)

Container w/carrying Handle or Straps Individual First Aid Kit

Large Plastic Bags Signal Panels

Flashlight with Spare Batteries Hand Saw or Wire Saw

Collapsible Shovel Sleeping Bag (1-per two occupants)

Survival Manual Snowshoes

Insect Repellant Axe or Hatchet

Insect Head net (1-per occupant) Gill Net/Assorted Fishing Tackle

Personal ELT Sunscreen

Note: A hand-held 760 channel VHF transceiver radio or satellite phone is recommended. It should be located on a crewmember rather than placed in the aircraft survival kit.

C-5 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE

(a) All aircraft shall be maintained to 14 CFR Part 43, 91, and 135 standards. The Contractor shall provide or arrange for sufficient maintenance capability to keep the aircraft in airworthy condition.

(b) The Contractor shall identify the maintenance facilities and/or maintenance personnel used to fulfill the requirements of this contract.

(c) Aircraft operated with components and accessories on approved Time Between Overhaul (TBO) extension programs are acceptable, provided the Contractor who provides the aircraft is the holder of the approved extension authorization (not the owner if the aircraft is leased), and shall operate in accordance with the extension.

(d) Compliance with applicable mandatory manufacturer's service bulletins, alert service bulletins, and safety of flight bulletins as required by FAA Operations Specifications; FAA

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Airworthiness Directives (AD); and the correction of maintenance deficiencies shall be accomplished prior to delivery and continue during contract period of performance. If referenced in Section B, schedule of items, additional mandatory manufacturer's service bulletins, alert service bulletins or safety of flight bulletins shall be required.

(e) All maintenance shall be accomplished in accordance with the standards established by 14 CFR Part 135; Advisory Circular (AC) 43.13, and the manufacturer's instructions and in accordance with those procedures established in the Contractor's maintenance program approved under 14 CFR Part 135 Operations Specifications.

(f) A copy of the current maintenance record required by 14 CFR 91.417 shall be kept at the Home Base or maintenance facility.

(g) A test flight shall be performed at the Contractor's expense following overhaul, repair, and replacement of any engine (installations of reciprocating engines that are new, rebuilt, or overhauled shall accumulate 3-hours of operation, including 2 hours in flight, prior to Government use), power train, or control equipment, and following any adjustment of the flight control systems before the aircraft resumes service under this contract. The result of any test flight shall be logged in the aircraft flight records by the Pilot. Results of test flights shall be reported to the U.S. Forest Service Aircraft Maintenance Inspector (AMI) before the aircraft is returned to contract availability.

(h) When any non-scheduled maintenance or repairs are performed due to mechanical or equipment deficiencies, an AMI and the Contracting Officer (CO) shall be notified for "return to contract available” status, before the aircraft performs under the contract.

(i) The Interagency Airplane Data Record Card or Point-to-Point Aircraft Data Card shall be posted inside the aircraft.

(j) The aircraft’s required weight and balance data shall be determined by actual weighing of the aircraft every 36 calendar months for multi-engine aircraft. Mission Use Only single engine aircraft shall be weighed within the previous 5 years.

All weighing of aircraft shall be performed on scales that have been certified. The certifying agency may be any accredited weights and measures laboratory.

C-6 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

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(2) Fenced parking areas.

C-7 AVIONICS REQUIREMENTS

Required avionics systems and Contractor offered avionics/communication equipment shall meet the performance specifications as specified in FS/AMD A-24 at:

www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html.

C-8 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED AVIONICS SYSTEMS

Point-to-point flights require no additional systems other than those required by 14 CFR Part

135. Aircraft operating to or from airfields or airstrips designated as Category 4 and are not otherwise conducting special use flights must meet the requirements of C-8(a) and C-8(b)(1), (2), (3), and (4).

Special Use flights require the following avionics systems dependent upon the type of mission flown (Resource Reconnaissance, Fire Reconnaissance, or Air Tactical) in addition to those requirements specified in 14 CFR Part 135. Sections C-8(a) through C-8(d) list required equipment and capabilities for various missions. Section C-8(e) lists specifications to meet those mission driven requirements. Review Section B-7 and C-8(a) through C-8(d) for applicability then follow the specifications in Section C-8(e) to meet those requirements.

(a) All Aircraft: The use of mobile (vehicle type) radios in aircraft is prohibited.

(b) Resource Reconnaissance and all other aircraft not specified in Sections C-8(c) or (d) shall meet all of the following:

(1) Instruments and lighting for 14 CFR Part 135 night VFR operations (135.159 & 135.161)

(2) An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) (See Section C-8(e)(2)(i))

(3) An Aeronautical VHF-AM Radio Transceiver (COM 1) (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ii))

(4) An Automated Flight Following (AFF) system (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ix))

(5) A GPS Unit (See Section C-8(e)(3)(i)) and one of the following four options (See Section B-7)

Option #1

(6) One (minimum) Aeronautical VHF-FM Antenna (See Section C-8(e)(2)(xiii)). The government (i.e. dispatching office) would furnish one portable VHF-FM radio with a female BNC to appropriate radio antenna adapter (Pomona 3837 (some marked POMONA4160) or equivalent).

Option #2

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(6) Provisions for an Auxiliary VHF-FM (AUX-FM) Portable Radio (See Section C- 8(e)(2)(iv))

(7) An Audio Control System (See Section C-8(e)(4))

(8) An Intercommunications System (See Section C-8(e)(5))

Option #3

(6) An Accessory Power Source (See Section C-8(e)(1))

(7) A Supplemental Air Attack kit or a Supplemental Radio kit (Non-Air Attack) (GFE or Contractor furnished) (See Section C-8(e)(2) (x) or (xi))

(8) One (minimum) Aeronautical VHF-FM Antenna (See Section C-8(e)(2)(xiii))

(9) The floor space between the PIC and SIC/observer seats shall be free of all obstructions for radio kit installation.

Option #4

(6) A P-25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii))

(7) An Audio Control System (See Section C-8(e)(4))

(8) An Intercommunications System (See Section C-8(e)(5))

(9) An Accessory Power Source

(c) Fire Reconnaissance aircraft shall meet all of the following:

(1) Instruments and lighting for 14 CFR Part 135 night VFR operations (135.159 & 135.161)

(2) An ELT (See Section C-8(e)(2)(i))

(3) An Aeronautical VHF-AM Radio Transceiver (COM 1) (See Section C-8.E.2.ii)

(4) An AFF system (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ix))

(5) A GPS Unit (See Section C-8(e)(3)(i)) and one of the following three options (See Section B-7)

Option #1

(6) Two (minimum) Aeronautical VHF-FM Antennas (See Section C-8(e)(2)(xiii)). The government (i.e. dispatching office) would furnish two (2) portable VHF-FM radios with female BNC to appropriate radio antenna adapters (Pomona 3837 (some marked POMONA4160) or equivalent). Fire Reconnaissance aircraft shall have a dedicated

C-8 guard receiver. The first portable radio would be for tactical use while the second shall be solely used for Air Guard.

Option #2

(6) An Accessory Power Source (See Section C-8(e)(1))

(7) A Supplemental Air Attack kit or a Supplemental Radio kit (Non-Air Attack) (GFE or Contractor furnished) (See Section C-8(e)(2) (x) or (xi))

(8) One (minimum) Aeronautical VHF-FM Antenna (See Section C-8(e)(2)(xiii))

(9) The floor space between the PIC and SIC/observer seats shall be free of all obstructions for radio kit installation.

Option #3

(6) A P-25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii))

(7) An Audio Control System (See Section C-8(e)(4))

(8) An Intercommunications System (See Section C-8(e)(5))

(d) Air Tactical Aircraft. Air Tactical aircraft shall meet all the following (as required by Type):

Note: Regardless of available aircraft equipment or capabilities, Supplemental Air Attack Kit installations in any Type shall not elevate the aircraft’s capability beyond that Type for which the aircraft would normally be carded if the Supplemental Air Attack Kit were removed.

Note: If an approved TCAS/TCAD is furnished, the aircraft shall be identified as a “Type I with TCAS/TCAD” or a “Type II with TCAS/TCAD”.

(1) Type I:

(i) Instruments and lighting for 14 CFR Part 135 night VFR operations (135.159 & 135.161)

(ii) An ELT (See Section C-8(e)(2)(i))

(iii) Two Aeronautical VHF-AM Radio Transceivers (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ii))

(iv) Two permanently installed P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceivers (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii))

(v) An AFF system (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ix))

(vi) A GPS Unit (See Section C-8(e)(3)(i))

(vii) A Transponder and Altitude Encoder (See Section C-8(e)(3)(ii))

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(viii) Static Systems (See Section C-8(e)(3)(iii))

(ix) Separate Audio Control Systems for the PIC and SIC/ATGS (See Section C- 8(e)(4))

(x) A set of audio/mic jacks with PTT capability in the rear seat for an ATGS instructor connected to the SIC/ATGS’s audio control system. A separate audio control system for the instructor is acceptable. (See Section C-8(e)(4))

(xi) An Intercommunication System (See Section C-8(e)(5)) and one of the following two options (See Section B-7)

Option #1

(xii) Provisions for an Auxiliary VHF-FM Portable Radio (See Section C- 8(e)(2)(4))

Option #2

(xiii) A third P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii))

(2) Type II:

(i) Instruments and lighting for 14 CFR Part 135 night VFR operations (135.159 & 135.161)

(ii) An ELT (See Section C-8(e)(2)(i))

(iii) Two Aeronautical VHF-AM Radio Transceivers (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ii))

(iv) One permanently installed P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii))

(v) An AFF system (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ix))

(vi) A GPS Unit (See Section C-8(e)(3)(i))

(vii) A Transponder and Altitude Encoder (See Section C-8(e)(3)(ii))

(viii) Static Systems (See Section C-8(e)(3)(iii))

(ix) Separate Audio Control Systems for the PIC and SIC/ATGS (See Section C- 8(e)(4))

(x) A set of audio/mic jacks with PTT capability in the rear seat for an ATGS Instructor connected to the SIC/ATGS’s audio control system. A separate audio control system for the instructor is acceptable. (See Section C-8(e)(4))

(xi) An Intercommunication System (See Section C-8(e)(5))

C-10 and one of the following two options (See Section B-7)

Option #1

(xii) Provisions for an Auxiliary VHF-FM Portable Radio (See Section C- 8(e)(2)(iv))

Option #2

(xii) A second P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii))

(3) Type III:

(i) Instruments and lighting for 14 CFR Part 135 night VFR operations (135.159 & 135.161)

(ii) An ELT (See Section C-8(e)(2)(i))

(iii) Two Aeronautical VHF-AM Radio Transceivers (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ii))

(iv) A permanently installed P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii))

(v) An AFF system (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ix))

(vi) A GPS Unit (See Section C-8(e)(3)(i))

(vii) A Transponder and Altitude Encoder (See Section C-8(e)(3)(ii))

(viii) Static Systems (See Section C-8(e)(3)(iii))

(ix) An Audio Control System (See Section C-8(e)(4))

(x) An Intercommunications System (See Section C-8(e)(5))

(4) Type IV:

(i) Instruments and lighting for 14 CFR Part 135 night VFR operations (135.159 & 135.161)

(ii) An Accessory Power Source (See Section C-8(e)(1))

(iii) An ELT (See Section C-8(e)(2)(i))

(iv) Two Aeronautical VHF-AM Radio Transceivers (See Section C-8(e)(2)(ii))

(v) An AFF system (See Section C-8(e)(2)(i))

(vi) A Supplemental Air Attack kit (GFE or Contractor furnished) (See Section C- 8(e)(2)(ix)

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(vii) Two Aeronautical VHF-FM Antennas (See Section C-8(e)(2)(xiii))

(viii) A GPS Unit (See Section C-8(e)(3)(i))

(ix) A Transponder and Altitude Encoder (See Section C-8(e)(3)(ii))

(x) Static Systems (See Section C-8(e)(3)(iii))

(xi) An Audio Control System (See Section C-8(e)(4))

(xii) The floor space between the PIC and SIC/observer seats shall be free of all obstructions for Supplemental Air Attack kit installation.

Note: If the Contractor provides an approved Supplemental Air Attack Kit, the aircraft shall be identified as a “Type IV with radio kit”.

(e) Specifications

All required avionics systems shall be furnished, installed, and maintained by the Contractor in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and the installation and maintenance standards of this section. Requirements listed below are required when selected in Section B-7.

(1) Accessory Power Source. A power connector (MS3112E12-3S) protected by a 10 amp circuit breaker directly connected to the avionics or aircraft power buss. The connector shall be permanently mounted in a location convenient to the SIC/observer.

Pin A shall be +24 VDC in 24 volt aircraft, Pin B shall be aircraft ground, and Pin C shall be +12 VDC in 12 VDC aircraft. NEVER apply power to both Pins A and C simultaneously. See FS/AMD-A16 available at:

http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html

(2) COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

(i) Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT). One automatic-portable/automatic-fixed or automatic-fixed ELT utilizing an external antenna and meeting the same requirements as those detailed for airplanes in 14 CFR 91.207 (excluding section f.), shall be installed per the manufacturer’s installation manual, in a conspicuous or marked location. ELTs certified under TSO-C91 are not acceptable.

NOTE: After January 31, 2009, only ELTs transmitting on 406 MHz (TSO-C126 type) will be detected by satellites. The FAA recommends that any new ELT be a TSO-C126 type with a GPS/FMS interface and be registered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

(ii) Aeronautical VHF-AM Radio Transceiver. A TSO’d panel mounted aeronautical VHF-AM radio transceiver (VHF-1), operating in the frequency band of 118.000 to 136.975 MHz, with a minimum of 760 channels in no greater than 25 kHz increments, and a minimum of 5 watts carrier output power. For aircraft operating to or from airfields or airstrips designated as Category 4, Resource Reconnaissance, and Fire Reconnaissance aircraft where a second VHF-AM radio is required (VHF-2), the second radio may be a 720 channel transceiver http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html

C-12

(118.000 to 135.975 MHz). All Air Tactical aircraft shall utilize only 760 channel transceivers.

(iii) P-25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (FM-1). For a list of currently acceptable VHF-FM radios, visit http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html

(A) The transceiver shall operate from 138 to 174 MHz, permit the operator to program any usable frequency within that band while in flight, provide operator selection of wide-band (25 kHz bandwidth/5 kHz modulation), narrow-band (12.5 kHz bandwidth/2.5 kHz modulation) and P25 digital operation by channel for MAIN and AIR GUARD operation.

Transceivers shall be set to operate in the narrowband mode (typically indicated with a lower case “n”) unless local requirements dictate otherwise.

(B) Carrier output power shall be 6 to 10 watts nominal. The transceiver shall be capable of displaying receiver and transmitter operating frequency. Transceivers shall provide both receiver and transmitter activation indicators for MAIN and AIR GUARD. Simultaneous monitoring of both MAIN and AIR GUARD (168.6250 MHz) is required. Scanning of AIR GUARD is not acceptable. AIR GUARD communications may only be used for: Emergencies; initial call; recall; and redirection.

(C) A CTCSS sub-audible tone encoder/decoder with a minimum of 32 standards selectable tones, meeting the current TIA/EIA-603 standard, shall interface with the above transceiver. The encoder shall encode a

110.9 Hz tone on all AIR GUARD transmissions.

(D) The transceiver’s operational controls shall be mounted in a location that is convenient to both PIC and SIC/observer.

(E) Aircraft having two or more P-25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceivers (FM-1 & FM-2) need only have an AIR GUARD receiver in one transceiver. This paragraph is not applicable to Air Tactical aircraft.

(F) The following P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceivers are known to be acceptable.

Cobham (aka Northern Airborne Technology) NPX136D-070 Technisonic Industries TDFM-136

TDFM-136A

TDFM-136A/NV

(G) All VHF-FM transceivers (aeronautical, mobile, and portable) furnished to meet the requirements of this contract shall be P25 digital.

Only P25 digital compliant transceivers will be acceptable. P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceivers shall meet FS/AMD A-19. The requirements can be found at: http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html.

C-13

(H) All P25 digital radios will operate with current software as listed on http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/hotsheet/hotsheet.html. Software versions identified on this website by October 1st will be acceptable for the following year. The only exception is more up-to-date software versions as released by the manufacturer. P25 digital radios without a software version listing will be upgraded to the current version within six months of release by the manufacturer. As an example, Technisonic releases a new software version for their TDFM-136 radio on August 1st. The above website lists this new software version on September 15th. Therefore, all TDFM-136 radios must operate with this new software by January 1st.

However, if the website did not list this new software until October 10th, the software would not be required until the end of the following year.

(I) Forest Health Protection (FHP) aircraft may use certain analog aeronautical VHF-FM radio transceivers if the aircraft is used solely for FHP operations (See Section B-7). These radios shall meet all requirements of the P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver specifications applicable to analog aeronautical radios. The only analog radios acceptable for FHP use are:

Northern Airborne Technology NTX138-070 Technisonic Industries TFM-138 (serial #1540 & up)

TFM-138B/C/D

(iv) Provisions for an Auxiliary VHF-FM (AUX-FM) Portable Radio:

(A) The Contractor shall provide the necessary interface for installing and properly operating an auxiliary VHF-FM portable radio through the aircraft's Audio Control System(s). The interface shall consist of the appropriate wiring from the audio control system, terminate in an MS3112E12-10S type connector and utilizing the contact assignments as specified by drawing FS/AMD-17 ; AUX-FM RADIO INTERFACE, at the following website: http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html

(B) One weatherproof, external, broadband antenna (Comant type CI- 177-1 or equal) covering the 138-174 MHz band, with associated RG- 58A/U (or equivalent) coaxial cable and connector, terminated in a bulkhead-mounted, female BNC connector adjacent to the above 10-pin connector.

(C) Mounting facilities, in accordance with the specifications of FAA Advisory Circular AC 43.13-2A, for secure installation of the auxiliary VHF-FM portable radio in the cockpit shall be provided (Field Support Services (www.helifire.com) AUX-EPH-RB or equivalent). The location of the mounting facilities shall be such that, when connected with an 18-inch adapter cable, allows the SIC/observer full and unrestricted movement of the radio's controls.

(D) Positive-polarity microphone excitation voltage shall be provided to the AUX-FM system from the aircraft DC power system through a suitable http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/hotsheet/hotsheet.html file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/trnovinger/Local%20Settings/Temp/notes01C68D/www.helifire.com

C-14 resistor network. A blocking capacitor shall be provided to prevent the portable radio microphone excitation voltage from entering the system.

Sidetone for the AUX-FM shall also be provided (AEM (aka NAT) AA34, Heritage (Premier) PA-34, or equivalent).

(E) In lieu of the above AUX-FM requirements, the Contractor may substitute one P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver (See Section C-8(e)(2)(iii)) in addition to any required P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceivers.

(F) If the AUX-FM specifications are intended for Low Band, UHF, or 700- 800 MHz use, the appropriate antenna shall be used (See Section C- 8(e)(2)(xii), (xiv) or (xv)) and the audio control(s) shall be labeled accordingly (LB/UHF/800).

(v) VHF-FM Programming Port

(A) Each required P25 Digital Aeronautical VHF-FM Radio Transceiver shall be equipped with a conveniently located programming port to facilitate programming via a Government owned laptop computer. The port(s) shall be protected from accidental damage via contact, be hard-wired to the transceiver(s), not require the reconnection of any cables for utilization, and must be conveniently located for ease of use (typically by the SIC/observers position). Use of a FM-1/FM-2 type programming switch is permitted.

(B) The contractor shall also furnish appropriate cables of adequate length, and/or…