CWN Scooper 2.0 RFP.pdf

2020 - 2024

NATIONAL CWN WATER SCOOPER

SERVICES 2.0

Matt Olson, Contracting Officer Phone: (208) 387-5835 e-mail: matthew.olson@usda.gov

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

Solicitation No. 1202SA21R9001 U.S. Forest Service CWN Multi-engine Amphibious Water Scooper Aircraft Services 2.0 National Office

TABLE OF CONTENTS

i

SECTION A - SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

STANDARD FORM 1449

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

B.1 PRICING AND ESTIMATED QUANTITIES

B.2 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

C.1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT

C.2 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS

C.3 CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVALS

C.4 RESERVED

C.5 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE

C.6 AVIONICS

C.7 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT SECURITY

C.8 OPERATIONS

C.9 CONTRACTOR’S ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

C.10 PERSONNEL

C.11 ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

C.12 RANDOM DRUG TESTING

C.13 SUBSTITUTION OR REPLACEMENT OF PERSONNEL, AIRCRAFT, AND EQUIPMENT

C.14 FLIGHT HOUR AND DUTY LIMITATIONS

C.15 ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND SAFETY (SEE EXHIBIT 10 – SYNOPSIS OF SAFETY

PROGRAM)

C.16 MISHAPS

C.17 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

C.18 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

C.19 PROFICIENCY FLIGHTS

C.20 AIRCRAFT SECURITY INSPECTIONS

C.21 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (AGAR 452.211-74) (FEB 1988)

C.22 MISSION ORDERING PROCEDURES

C.23 AVAILABILITY

C.24 PAYMENT PROCEDURES

C.25 FLIGHT TIME MEASUREMENT

C.26 PAYMENT FOR FLIGHT

C.27 PAYMENT FOR AVAILABILITY/UNAVAILABILITY

C.28 PAYMENT FOR EXTENDED STANDBY

C.29 REIMBURSEMENT FOR MOBILIZATION AND DEMOBILIZATION COSTS

C.30 PAYMENT FOR OVERNIGHT ALLOWANCE (PERSONNEL)

C.31 MISCELLANEOUS COSTS TO THE CONTRACTOR

C.32 PAYMENT FOR FUEL – US GOVERNMENT AIR CARD PROGRAM

C.33 PAYMENT FOR FUEL – WHEN GOVERNMENT AIR CARD NOT ACCEPTED

C.34 AERIAL WATER SCOOPING AIRCRAFT (AWSA) MANAGER/CONTRACTING OFFICER’S

REPRESENTATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

EXHIBIT 1 – BASIC AIRCRAFT EQUIPMENT AND FIRE EQUIPMENT

EXHIBIT 2 – STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY PROGRAM (WATER SCOOPER ONLY)

EXHIBIT 3 – FLIGHT EQUIPMENT

EXHIBIT 4 – FIRST AID KIT AERONAUTICAL

EXHIBIT 5 – SURVIVAL KIT – AERONAUTICAL (LOWER 48 AND ALASKA)

EXHIBIT 6 – AIRCRAFT MARKINGS

EXHIBIT 7 – ALASKA OPERATIONS

CWN Multi-engine Amphibious Water Scooper Aircraft Services 2.0 National Office

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ii

EXHIBIT 8 – US GOVERNMENT AIR CARD FUEL PROGRAM

EXHIBIT 9 – AIRTANKER FUEL LOG

EXHIBIT 10 – SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (SMS) COMPONENTS QUESTIONNAIRE

EXHIBIT 11 – DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

EXHIBIT 12 – DEPARTMENT OF LABOR WAGE DETERMINATION INFORMATION

EXHIBIT 13 – AIRCRAFT RECORDS AND MANUAL

EXHIBIT 14 – AIRCRAFT FLIGHT & MAINTENANCE LOG – SAMPLE –

EXHIBIT 15 – AIRTANKER INSPECTION FORM

EXHIBIT 16 – AIRCREW TRAINING FORM

EXHIBIT 17 – OFFERED AIRCRAFT AND ASSOCIATED DATA

EXHIBIT 18 – PUBLIC AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS (PAO) DECLARATION

EXHIBIT 19 – ADDITIONAL TELEMETRY UNIT SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

EXHIBIT 20 – WEIGHT AND BALANCE FORM

D.1 CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FAR 52.252-2)(FEB 1998) ... 100

D.2 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FAR 52.212-4)

(DEVIATION 2017-1) (OCT 2018)

D.3 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR

EXECUTIVE ORDERS -- COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FAR 52.212-5) (DEVIATION 2017-1 AND

DEVIATION APR 2020) (OCT 2020)

D.4 ORDERING (FAR 52.216-18) (OCT 1995)

D.5 ORDER LIMITATIONS (FAR 52.216-19) (OCT 1995)

D.6 INDEFINITE QUANTITY (52.216-22) (OCT 1995)

D.7 TASK-ORDER AND DELIVERY-ORDER OMBUDSMAN (FAR 52.216-32) (SEP 2019)

D.8 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM CONTRACT AMOUNTS (AGAR 452.216-73) (FEB 1988)

D.9 KEY PERSONNEL (AGAR 452.237-74) (FEB 1988)

D.10 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE

D.11 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM (CPARS)

E.1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFEROR - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FAR 52.212-1) (JUN 2020)

(TAILORED)

E.2 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF BUSINESS AND TECHNICAL PROPOSALS .

E.3 EVALUATION CRITERIA OF PROPOSALS

E.4 CONTRACT AWARD

E.5 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS –COMMERCIAL ITEMS

(FAR 52.212-3) (JAN 2017)

E.6 CERTIFICATION REGARDING TAX MATTERS (FAR 52.209-12) (FEB 2016)

E.7 INQUIRIES (AGAR 452.204-70) (FEB 1988)

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

E.9 EVALUATION QUANTITIES-INDEFINITE-DELIVERY CONTRACT (AGAR 452.216-72) (FEB

1988)

E.10 SIZE STANDARD AND NAICS CODE INFORMATION (AGAR 452.219-70) (SEP 2001)

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

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

1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE 1 OF 143

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

1202SA21R9001

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE

DATE

11/18/2020

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME

Matt Olson

b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

Phone (208) 387-5835 Fax (208) 387-5384

8. OFFER DUE DATE/

LOCAL TIME

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

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER

U.S. FOREST SERVICE – CONTRACTING

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 (EDWOSB)

NAICS: 481212

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

8 (A)

SIZE STANDARD:

1,500 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

Same As Item 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

AMPHIBIOUS WATER SCOOPER AIRCRAFT

See Schedule of Items

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 print) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

1/8/2021 4:00PM MST

CWN Amphibious Water Scooper Aircraft Services 2.0 National Office

SECTION B

DESCRIPTION/SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

B.1 PRICING AND ESTIMATED QUANTITIES

The intent of this solicitation and any resultant Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract is to obtain Water Scooper Aircraft services for wildland firefighting on a nationwide basis. We intend to award Multiple IDIQ or Multiple Award Task Order Contracts (MATOC) to as many qualified vendors. The placement of any orders is not guaranteed; however, each contract will have a minimum guarantee of $15,000.00. The effective period of the resultant contract(s) will be for 4 years from the contract start date. This procurement will be 100% set aside for small business concerns.

Offeror’s proposed fixed-price rates shall include all labor, equipment, materials, State and Federal taxes, insurance coverage, overhead, lodging, Meals & Incidental Expenses (M&IE) and profit. Care should be taken to provide a separate Technical and Business/Price Proposal in accordance with the solicitation instructions. The Technical and Business/Price proposals shall be separate and complete so that evaluation of one may be accomplished independently from evaluation of the other.

Offerors must provide all information in Section B.2, Schedule of Items, as requested. The Government intends to issue multiple awards for acceptable aircraft.

The Offeror must propose aircraft with daily availability and hourly flight rates as listed in Section B.2 Schedule of Items. The Offeror shall provide a list of amphibious water scooper bases from which they are capable of operating. The Offeror will not be operationally limited to only these bases.

B.2 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

Make/Model

N-Number Side Number

Item 1.A

Daily Availability Rate*

Unit Price

Year 2021 $

Year 2022 $

Year 2023 $

Year 2024 $

Year 2025 (if extended) $

Item 1.B

Hourly Flight Rate (Dry)*

Unit Price

Dry

Year 2021 $

Year 2022 $

Year 2023 $

Year 2024 $

Year 2025 (if extended) $

(The above table format/page shall be used for each aircraft being offered)

* Daily Availability Rate is based on a 14-hour day and includes mandatory 9 hour work days.

During the period where the flight crew is required to be on standby beyond the first 9 hours required (rounded-up to the next full hour) for availability, the Contractor will be paid at an hourly

Extended Standby Rate of $54.00 per hour for each authorized flight crew member and each authorized mechanic.

Cancelled Dispatch will be paid at 1/10 of the contracted hourly flight rate (see C.26 (f)).

** Contractors shall propose daily availability and dry flight rates, as identified above, based on the actual amount of daily usage and flight hours the aircraft receives throughout each year.

*** Each annual estimated cost will be used to determine the grand total evaluated cost per aircraft for contract award purposes (see formula below).

The following will be used for price evaluation. The estimated quantities are provided for price evaluation purposes only and do not represent any actual quantities to be ordered. The estimated total number of days for Availability is 60 per year and a total of 200 Flight hours per year. The following formula will be used to determine Total Annual Evaluated Price for contract award purposes:(60 days x Daily Availability Rate) + (200 hours x Flight Rate) + (Fuel Cost) = Total Annual Evaluated Price.

Fuel Cost = (Hourly Fuel Consumption x $4.52 per gallon of Jet-A Fuel)

Note: Jet-A Fuel is established at $4.52 per gallon based on the July 2020 Government Fuel Survey. The price for Jet A fuel will be adjusted each time the Government conducts a new survey.

The total of each annual evaluated price will be summed together to determine the grand total evaluated price per aircraft for contract award purposes.

SECTION C

DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/WORK STATEMENT/EXHIBITS

C.1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT

(a) The intent of this solicitation and any resultant IDIQ contract(s) is to secure Contractor operated and maintained Turbine powered, Multi-engine, Amphibious, Fixed-Wing, Water Scooping Aircraft services meeting the specifications of this contract. The aircraft shall have full or interim Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) approval as a multi-engine water scooper. The primary use of water scooping aircraft under this contract will be for initial attack (IA) of wildland fires. Water will be scooped from water sources such as lakes and rivers or loaded at ground locations. Chemical fire retardant including foam and gel products shall NOT be loaded in the Contractor’s aircraft. The Water scooping aircraft is expected to carry a minimum of 1400 gallons of water at Sea Level and ISA plus 15°C to fires in the beginning stages following initiation. These immediate response actions occur in the first burning periods and are intended to support personnel either on scene or in route to the incident in containing the fire when it is least costly to do so.

(b) Once activated the Water scooping aircraft will be assigned an Administrative Base annually (Boise, Idaho) for contract management oversight only and will be dispatched nationwide including Alaska, as directed by the Government. While activated, the Designated base will be the Contractor’s Home base of operations. The Contractor may propose one or more additional alternate maintenance base(s) to be used during the performance of this contract. Planned coverage is 6-Days ON & 1-Day OFF. Offerors may submit alternate proposals for 7-day coverage.

Any alternate proposals must be submitted in addition to proposals for planned coverage, with pricing submitted for both.

(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 aircraft 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) Contractor personnel shall conduct themselves in a professional and cooperative manner in fulfilling this contract.

(e) Performance of these services may involve work and/or residence on Federal property (National Forests, Bureau of Land Management, and National Parks’ Lands, etc.). Contractor 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.

(f) Contractor personnel shall perform effectively, cooperate in the fulfillment of the required specifications and be willing and able to adapt to field living conditions. If the Contractor fails to provide employees that can comply with the terms of this contract the CO can treat the failure as a breach, issue a stop work order if needed, and proceed with steps to discontinue the contract(s).

(g) The CO shall notify the Contractor of any specifics of the unsatisfactory conduct and/or performance by Contractor personnel. The determination of unacceptability and corrective action is at the discretion of the Contracting Officer (CO) and/or National Airtanker Program Manager (NATPM). The Contractor shall replace unacceptable personnel.

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

(h) The establishment of a good working relationship between the Contractor and Government is essential to the success of this contract. The Contractor’s employees' cooperation, professionalism, and positive attitude are required to establish the necessary relationship that must exist to successfully complete this contract.

(i) The Government has interagency and cooperative agreements with other Federal and State agencies and aircraft awarded under this contract may be dispatched to support those agencies.

(j) The Contractor must provide all personnel, facilities, technical support, equipment, financial support, and materials required to accomplish the work required herein unless otherwise agreed to by the CO.

(k) Line items will begin service in calendar year 2021. Proposed aircraft flight rates are dry rates with fuel provided by the Government through Government fuel cards however, the contractor shall provide a secondary means of paying for fuel during instances when the Government issued fuel card is not accepted. The Contractor will be reimbursed for fuel when required to procure fuel through other than the Government provided air card.

C.2 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS

(a) General

Aircraft shall be amphibious, twin turbine engine powered, have a Standard or a Restricted Category Airworthiness Certificate and shall meet the following:

(b) Minimum Aircraft Requirements

Payload: Minimum payload of 1400 deliverable gallons of water at Sea Level and ISA + 15°C. Deliverable gallons are those gallons carried to the fire minus the residual gallons in the tank after dispensing. Payload conversion is made at an average of 8.3 pounds per gallon of fluid.

Exact payload will be computed from documented weight and balance data and Takeoff and Landing performance charts for the Assigned Work Location (AWL).

Takeoff and Landing: The aircraft accelerate-stop distance shall not be greater than 5,000 feet plus the length of the stopway (if present). For restricted category airplanes, a stopway is a safety asset, but cannot be used in the accelerate-stop calculation. (14 CFR 1.1)

Aircraft shall be capable of accelerating on all engines to the manufacturer’s or FAA approved Decision Speed (V1), 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 in the accelerate-stop distance. If Decision Speed is not available, Rotation Speed (Vr) shall be used in determining accelerate-stop requirements.

Aircraft shall be capable of accelerating on all engines in a no wind condition through Decision Speed to Take-off Safety Speed lifting off within 80% of the effective takeoff length at sea level @ ISA plus 30o C. Take-off Safety Speed (V2) is defined as the speed at which IAB one engine inoperative climb performance can be achieved, or if this speed is not available, 115% of power-off stall speed for the takeoff configuration.

Capable of operating from a 5,000-foot gravel runway, 3,000 feet pressure altitude, and 25º Celsius with an empty tank.

Certification: Aircraft certified in accordance with 14 CFR 21.183 or 21.185.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Type Certificate (TC) allows for the dropping of water or on wildland fires (e.g. aerial dispersant of liquids);

An aircraft make and model for which engineering and logistical support, for continued airworthiness, is provided from the original equipment manufacturer /type certificate holder.

VFR/IFR, Day and Night.

Cruise Speed: Cruise airspeed of at least 180 knots true airspeed at 10,000 feet pressure altitude and ISA, empty tank.

Endurance of four (4) hours at maximum cruise power, optimum altitude, standard temperature with a 45-minute reserve.

Tank: Offered aircraft Tank system shall be approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) as a multi-engine amphibious water scooper.

Tank capacity minimum of 1400 U.S. gallons.

(c) Personnel Requirements: Pilot-in-Command (PIC), Second-in-Command (SIC), Flight Engineer (FE) if required, Mechanic.

(d) 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 tank(s) shall be cleaned in accordance with Federal Insecticide Fungicide Rodenticide Act (1969) (FIFRA) Regulations.

(6) Contractor shall provide the Basic Aircraft and Fire Equipment as specified in, Exhibit 1.

(e) Non-mission Essential Equipment

(1) Non-mission essential equipment stored in the aircraft during firefighting missions will be limited to crew baggage, technician baggage (as applicable), essential ground support equipment, minimum essential consumable liquids and spare parts not to exceed 1 percent of the maximum operating/takeoff weight

(2) Equipment stored in the aircraft shall be securely stored to prevent movement in flight.

(3) All mission essential equipment shall be documented in the aircraft weight and balance records.

C.3 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 (as applicable if developed by the OEM) 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 and the FAA for the scooper role.

(b) Contractors shall be currently certificated to meet 14 CFR Part 137 (Agricultural Aircraft Operations). Any aircraft offered shall be listed by make, model, series, and registration number on the Operator’s Certificates at the time of Pre- Use Inspection. The offeror shall have at least one of the same make and model of the aircraft offered on the Operators Certificates at the time of proposal submittal.

(c) Contractors are also required to hold a 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Station Certificate with a Class or limited airframe rating for offered aircraft. All maintenance shall be performed under the contractor’s Repair Station Certificate. Under certain circumstances non-CRS personnel may perform preventive maintenance functions such as those contained in 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A, if approved in advance by a USFS Aviation Maintenance Inspector.

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

(e) Any modification or alteration to the tank system that may alter the Aerial Delivery Test Team retardant testing, evaluation and coverage test results shall be approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) prior to scooper inspection.

(f) Any modification or alteration to the aircraft, which affects the aircraft performance, flight characteristics, or operational limitations, must be approved by the IAB and the contracting officer prior to use under this contract.

(g) Aircraft that currently have or receive interim approval from the IAB and, fail to hold either interim or final IAB approval will not be renewed and hereby agree to a no cost termination for the convenience of the Government at the conclusion of the season.

(h) Contractors that receive an award and fail to meet the requirements of this contract including those that fail to receive IAB approval or interim tank approval shall be terminated for cause in accordance with FAR 52.212-4(m) (D-3).

(i) Water Scooper Aircraft not in existence at the time of offer may be offered provided the aircraft and tank system has obtained an approval by the IAB 10 days prior to time of hire for the item offered.

C.4 RESERVED

C.5 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE

(a) General

(1) Offered aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with the OEM’s most recent revision of the inspection program applicable to the serial number of the aircraft being inspected. All maintenance shall be accomplished in accordance with the standards established by 14 CFR 43 and 91 standards and this contract.

(2) Offered aircraft shall be in compliance with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Directives (AD’s) as per 14 CFR 91.417 (a)(2)(v), and Service Bulletins (SB’s) with a time compliance requirement, referenced in an FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) or are designated mandatory by the manufacturer.

(3) Aircraft shall be maintained by the operator’s FAA Part 145 Certified Repair Station (CRS) and in accordance with all applicable requirements of 14 CFR. Under certain circumstances non-CRS personnel may perform preventive maintenance functions such as those contained in 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A, if approved by a USFS Aviation Maintenance Inspector.

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

(5) Unless authorized by an approved MEL, aircraft shall not be approved or used if any accessory or instrument is inoperative. Equipment required by this contract may not be deferred under the MEL, except for non-revenue ferry flights.

(5) 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) are not allowed under any circumstances.

(6) 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.

(7) Maintenance of the aircraft shall be recorded in accordance with 14 CFR Part 43, Part 91, and Part 145. An example of acceptable aircraft maintenance records can be found in FAA Advisory Circular (AC) No. 43-9C, as revised.

(8) 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 Exhibit 14.

(9) Aircraft records, manuals and/or status sheets shall be available in the field to agency inspectors sufficient to determine current aircraft inspection, overhaul and life-limited component status. See Section J, Exhibit 13

(10) Aircraft shall be weighed and configured as a Water Scooper within 60 days prior to being offered, and every 36 months thereafter. Exhibit 23, Form B is required. 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.

Additional aircraft offered shall be weighed within 60 days prior to being offered for Pre- Use inspection and every 36 months thereafter.

(11) All weighing of aircraft shall be performed on scales that have been certified as accurate within the previous year (12 months).

The certifying entity may be any accredited weights and measures laboratory using standards traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The scales should be listed by make model and calibration date in the aircrafts weight and balance documentation.

(12) An Equipment List shall be compiled for each offered aircraft. Weight and balance records shall be revised each time equipment is removed or installed. A list of equipment installed in the aircraft at the time of weighing shall be compiled. The equipment list shall include the name, weight, arm and moment of each item installed.

Items that may be easily removed or installed for aircraft configuration changes (seats, radios, special mission equipment, etc.) shall also be listed including the name, weight, arm and moment of each item. Each page of the equipment list shall identify the specific aircraft by serial and registration number. Each page of the equipment list shall be dated indicating the last date of actual weighing or computation. The weight and balance shall be revised each time equipment is removed or installed which more than negligibly affects the center of gravity of the aircraft.

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

(15) The Contractor will submit an FAA Form 8010-4, Malfunction or Defect Report, or file electronically in the FAA’s Service Difficulty Reporting (SDR) system, any serious failure, malfunction, or defect of an article, per 14 CFR 145.221 or maintenance deficiency identified in 14 CFR Part 21.3(c), or as requested by the government for what it considers a reportable/significant discrepancy. A copy of this report shall be submitted by fax or email to the USFS contracting officer within 24 hours of discovery.

(b) An OEM Structural Integrity Program (SIP) for the firefighting role. Elements of a SIP are contained in Exhibit 2.

Note: Refer to Exhibit 2 for critical information and details 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.

(c) Engines and Propellers

(1) The maximum Time Since Rebuild or Time Since Overhaul (TSR/TSO) permitted on any engine installed on a contract Water Scooper shall not exceed the manufacturer’s approved or recommended times, nor will they be operated when the efficiency becomes less than manufacture recommended minimum power.

(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 the engine shall be “backed-up” by a substitute engine having more than 100 hours of 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) and shall be made available for inspection upon request. Engines removed from storage (unsealed - 2 years; sealed - 5 years, or greater) shall be inspected for rust and corrosion, compliance with ADs, and attested airworthy by a certified power plant mechanic prior to entering service.

(d) Parts

Replacement parts shall be approved under 14 CFR 21.8 and shall have FAA 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) Functional Check Flights

A functional check 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 functional check flights shall be reported to and approved by a USFS Maintenance Inspector before the aircraft is returned to Contract Availability.

C.6 AVIONICS

(a) MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

All avionics used to meet this contract must comply with the requirements of paragraph (b) AVIONICS SPECIFICATIONS and paragraph (c) AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS. Equipment required by this section may not be deferred under the MEL, except for AFF and ATU with government approval. The following are the minimum avionics which must be installed.

Water Scoopers

(1) Two VHF-AM Radios (COM 1 & COM 2)

(2) One VHF-FM Radio (FM)

(3) An Intercom System (ICS) for the PIC, SIC, and Pilot Inspector

(4) The ICS system must have a keyed capability unless normal conversation can be maintained in the cockpit during flight

(5) Separate and interchangeable Audio Control systems for the PIC and SIC

(6) A spare headset with mic within reach of the PIC or Flight Engineer

(7) One Aeronautical Global Positioning System (GPS)

(8) Two VOR systems

(9) One Localizer system

(10) One Glideslope system interfaced to the #1 Localizer

(11) One Three Light Marker Beacon system

(12) One DME system unless the GPS is certified and maintained for use in IFR conditions

(13) Each Magnetic compass must be calibrated and placarded in no more than 30 degree increments

(14) An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT)

(15) An Automated Flight Following system (AFF)

(16) An Additional Telemetry Unit (ATU)

(17) One Transponder

(18) One Altimeter and Automatic Pressure Altitude Reporting system

(19) A Traffic Advisory System (TAS)

(20) One ADS-B OUT System approved to TSO-C166b

(21) One RADAR Altimeter

(22) A Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)

Note: ADS-B IN does not meet Forest Service requirements for traffic advisory systems.

(b) AVIONICS SPECIFICATIONS

All avionics used to meet this contract must comply with the following requirements and paragraph (c) AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS.

(1) Communications systems

Transmitters must not open squelch on, or interfere with, other AM or FM transceivers on the aircraft which are monitoring different frequencies. Transmit interlock functions must not be used with communication transceivers.

(i) VHF-AM Radios

VHF-AM radios must be TSO approved aeronautical transceivers, permanently installed, and operate in the frequency band of 118.000 to 136.975 MHz with a minimum of 760 channels in no greater than 25 KHz increments. Transmitters must have a minimum of 5 Watts carrier output power.

(ii) VHF-FM Radios

All aircraft approved for fire operations must use P25 Digital VHF-FM transceivers meeting the specifications of FS/OAS A-19. FM radios used in all aircraft must be agency approved. FS/OAS A-19 and a list of currently approved FM radios can be found on the following website:

http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html . The following requirements must be met.

(A) VHF-FM radios must be aeronautical transceivers, permanently installed in a location that is convenient to the PIC and SIC/observer, and operate in the frequency band of 138 to 174 MHz. All usable frequencies must be programmable in flight. Narrowband and digital operation must be selectable by channel for both MAIN and GUARD operation. Carrier output power must be 6-10 Watts nominal.

(B) Transceivers must have a GUARD capability constantly monitoring

168.625 MHz and have a tone of 110.9 on all GUARD transmissions.

Simultaneous monitoring of MAIN and GUARD is required. Scanning of GUARD is not acceptable. Aircraft not approved for Air Tactical operation only require one FM GUARD receiver.

(C) Transceivers must have the capability of encoding CTCSS sub audible tones on all channels. A minimum of 32 tones meeting the current TIA/EIA-603A standards must be selectable.

(D) Transceivers must have the capability to display both receiver and transmitter frequencies. Activation indicators for transmit and receive must be provided for both MAIN and GUARD operation.

(E) The radio must use an external broadband antenna covering the frequency band of 138 to 174 MHz (Comant CI-177-1 or equivalent).

(2) Audio Systems http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html

(i) Intercom systems (ICS)

ICS must integrate with the aircraft audio control systems and mix with selected receiver audio. An ICS volume control and a “hot mic” capability must be provided for the PIC and SIC. Passenger volume adjustments must not affect the PIC. Hot mic may be voice activated (VOX) or controlled via an activation switch.

(ii) Audio Control systems

(A) General

Controls for transmitter selection and independent receiver selection of all required radios must be provided for each required audio control system.

Each system must have the capability to simultaneously select and utilize a different transceiver. Sidetone must be provided for the user as well as for cross monitoring by all installed systems. Receiver audio must be automatically selected when the corresponding transmitter is selected.

Receiver audio must be provided to each position which requires ICS.

The Pilot Inspector must utilize the SIC audio control system unless an aft audio control system is installed.

Audio controls must be labeled as COM-1, FM-1, AUX, PA etc… as appropriate or as COM-1, COM-2, COM-3, etc… with the corresponding transceiver labeled to match. Audio must be free of distortion, noise, or crosstalk. The system must be designed for use with 600 ohm earphones and carbon equivalent, noise cancelling, boom type microphones. All required positions must have JJ-033 and JJ-034 type microphone and headphone jacks separated by no more than 4 inches. Cockpit speakers must be sufficiently amplified for use in flight.

Crew positions must have radio Push-To-Talk (PTT) switches on their respective flight controls or a panel location convenient to the user.

(B) (Reserved)

(C) Aft Audio Control systems (when provided)

The audio controller must be installed in a location that provides the operator unobstructed access to the controls while seated.

(D) Required Audio Control systems

Two separate audio control systems for the PIC and SIC. These must be identical individual units.

(3) Navigation systems

(i) Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

(A) Aeronautical GPS

Each required GPS must be TSO approved, permanently installed where both the PIC and SIC/observer can clearly view the display, use an approved external aircraft antenna, and be powered by the aircraft electrical system. The GPS must utilize the WGS-84 datum, reference coordinates in the DM (degrees/minutes/decimal minutes) format and have the ability to manually enter waypoints in flight. The GPS navigation database must be updated annually covering the geographic areas where the aircraft will operate.

(4) Surveillance systems

(i) Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELT)

Emergency locator transmitters must be certified to TSO-C126 or newer. ELTs must be automatic-fixed, installed in a conspicuous or marked location, and meet the requirements detailed in 14 CFR 91.207 (excluding section f). ELT mounts must use rigid attachments and meet the deflection requirements of RTCA/DO-

204. Velcro style mounts are not acceptable. ELT antennas must be mounted externally to the aircraft unless installed in a location approved by the aircraft manufacturer. Documentation of current registration is required from the national authority for which the aircraft is registered.

(ii) Automated Flight Following systems (AFF)

Automated flight following systems must be compatible with the government’s tracking program (AFF.gov), utilize satellite communications, and use aircraft power via a dedicated circuit breaker. AFF must be functional in all phases of flight and in all geographic areas where the aircraft will operate. The following additional requirements must be met.

(A) A subscription service must be maintained through the equipment provider allowing position reporting via the Government AFF Program.

The reporting interval must be every two minutes while aircraft power is on.

(B) AFF equipment must be registered with AFF.gov providing all requested information. Changes to equipment and registration information must be reported to AFF.gov ensuring the program is current prior to aircraft use. For assistance, the Fire Applications Help Desk (FAHD) may be reached at (866) 224-7677 or (616) 323-1667.

(C) An AFF operational test must be performed by the vendor no less than seven calendar days prior to the annual compliance inspection. This test must ensure that the system meets all requirements and is displayed in the AFF viewer with the correct information. A user name and password are required. Registration and additional information are available at https://www.aff.gov/. If the aircraft is not displaying properly, the vendor must notify AFF.gov.

(D) If AFF becomes unreliable the aircraft may, at the discretion of the Government, remain available for service utilizing radio/voice systems for flight following. The system must be returned to full operational capability within 5 calendar days after the system is discovered to be unreliable.

(E) This clause incorporates the Specification Section Supplement available at https://www.aff.gov/documents/Specification_Section_Supplement.pdf as if it was presented as full text herein.

(F) For questions about current compatibility requirements contact the AFF Program Manager by emailing affadmin@firenet.gov.

(iii) Additional Telemetry Unit (ATU)

(A) Additional Telemetry Units must be powered by the aircraft’s electrical system and operational in all phases of flight.

(B) The ATU must report tank/bucket open, close, gallons filled, and gallons dropped events with GPS data (Date, Time, Latitude, Longitude, Altitude, Speed, and Heading) following the data format as specified in the AFF JSON requirement at https://www.aff.gov/documents/Json_Specification_Section_Supplement.

pdf. Depending on the tank or bucket system, additional data may be requested such as pump on/off and coverage level.

(C) Reserved

(D) The ATU data must be delivered to the government within two minutes from the time of the event and not interfere with any AFF position reports. A subscription service must be maintained through the AFF or ATU equipment provider allowing AFF position reporting and ATU event data via the Government’s application(s).

(E) Calibration event(s) including a fill, open, close, and calculated volume dropped must be performed no more than seven calendar days prior to the aircraft inspection and must be provided to the aircraft inspector. The vendor must verify that the system is properly reporting all data correctly, specifically volume based on maximum typical contract load based on environmental conditions, and all GPS information is included per event.

(F) The vendor must provide a completed ATU Exhibit that clearly describes their ATU system.

(G) The vendor must verify the data is transmitting and displaying correctly on the ATU provider’s website and the Government’s application(s) it is required to report to.

(H) If the ATU becomes unreliable, the system must be returned to full operational capability within 14 calendar days after the system is discovered to be unreliable.

(iv) Transponders

Transponder systems must meet the requirements of 14 CFR 91.215(a). Part 135 aircraft must meet the “Mode S” requirements of 14 CFR 135.143(c).

Transponder systems must be tested and inspected every 24 calendar months as specified by 14 CFR 91.413.

(v) Altimeter and Automatic Pressure Altitude Reporting systems

Altimeter, static pressure, and automatic pressure altitude reporting systems must be installed and maintained in accordance with the IFR requirements of 14 CFR Part 91. These systems must be tested and inspected every 24 calendar months as specified by 14 CFR 91.411.

(vi) Traffic Advisory Systems (TAS)

Traffic advisory systems must be TSO approved, use active interrogation, graphically display traffic relative to the aircraft’s horizontal position, and provide alert audio to the PICs audio control system. The display must be within view of the PIC and SIC/observer. The system must provide coverage in all directions above and below the aircraft with a maximum range of at least 10 nautical miles.

The display must allow range selection of 2 miles or less, unless the 2 mile display area has a diameter of 2.75 inches or larger.

(5) General Systems

(i) RADAR Altimeters

RADAR altimeters must be approved, operate from zero to a minimum of 2000 feet AGL and provide the operator an adjustable cursor which enables an altitude low (decision height) annunciation. The altitude low annunciation must be clearly identified, and in the PIC’s primary field of view.

(ii) Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)

Cockpit voice recorders must meet all applicable regulations for standard and transport category aircraft.

CVRs installed in Airtankers must meet the requirements of 14 CFR 121.359 (a) through (h) and 14 CFR 25.1457 with the Pilot Inspector position recorded on channel four (if unused).

(c) AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS

All avionics used to meet this contract must comply with the manufacturer’s specifications and installation instructions, federal regulations, and the following requirements.

(1) There must be no interference with required systems from any equipment installed in or carried on the aircraft.

(2) Strict adherence to the guidelines in FAA AC 43.13-1B Chapter 11 “Aircraft Electrical Systems” and Chapter 12 “Aircraft Avionics Systems” as well as FAA AC 43.13-2B Chapter 1 “Structural Data”, Chapter 2 “Communication, Navigation and Emergency Locator Transmitter System Installations” and Chapter 3 “Antenna Installation” is required.

(3) All antennas must be FAA approved, have a Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) less than 3.0 to 1 and be properly matched and polarized to their associated avionics system. Repairs to antennas and cracks exposing the antenna housing or element are not acceptable.

(4) Labeling and marking of all avionics controls and equipment must be understandable, legible, and permanent. Electronic label marking is acceptable.

(5) Avionics installations must not interfere with passenger safety, space or comfort.

Avionics equipment must not be mounted under seats designed for energy attenuation.

In all instances, the designated areas for collapse must be protected.

(6) All avionics equipment must be included on the aircraft’s equipment list by model, nomenclature, weight, and arm.

(7) Avionics systems must meet the performance specifications of FS/OAS A-24 Avionics Operational Test Standards.

Communications equipment must meet the performance specifications of FS/OAS A-30 Radio Interference Test Procedures. For a copy of all FS/OAS documents visit http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html.

C.7 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT SECURITY

(a) The security of Contractor’s aircraft and equipment is the responsibility of the Contractor.

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

(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

(a) General

Regardless of any status as a public aircraft operation (PAO), 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) Loading and Refueling

Aircraft shall not be refueled or left unattended with the engines running except when the circumstances below are met and procedures are approved by the Government.

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

(d) Flight Equipment

The Contractor shall comply with Exhibit 3, Flight Equipment during the performance of this contract.

(e) Flight Plans

A FAA or International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) IFR flight plan shall be filed and executed for the entire duration of all resource ordered flights not defined as or intended to be a

Mission Flight. IFR flight plans shall be filed prior to takeoff, or inflight when the resource is ordered to another location while airborne. VFR flight following is not a substitute for an IFR flight plan. If an aircraft is unable to operate in IFR conditions, they must have COR approval prior to executing a resource ordered flight to another location.

(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) Water Loading

(1) Aircraft shall carry its maximum payload unless conditions require a download.

(2) Water Scoopers shall normally not be fully loaded with water 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.

(3) In the event of a cancelled or aborted mission while still on the ground, and if required for maintenance, water 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.

(4) In the event of a cancelled or aborted mission after takeoff, a…