D15PS00029_Ravendale_Solicitation.docx

SECTION E – OFFEROR’S REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER STATEMENTS

Table of Contents

SECTION A - REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

BLM – RAVENDALE, CA HELICOPTER 4 SOLICITATION NO. D15PS00029

SECTION A – REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

The intent of this contract is to obtain fully Contractor operated and maintained Exclusive Use Helicopter (EU) flight services for 100 calendar days to transport personnel and/or cargo in support of Government natural resource missions for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Ravendale, CA. This contract has a Base Year with Three 1-year Option Years. Contractor services include provision of a helicopter, personnel, fuel servicing vehicle, fuel, and all other associated equipment, as prescribed in this solicitation (See B1.1).

A1 - Item Requirement

ITEM DESCRIPTION

1. Designated Base: All equipment, facilities, and personnel required under this contract shall be delivered to and removed from the Designated Base location identified on the following Pricing pages. (see Note 1)

Aircraft Requirement: One Light Helicopter equipped as specified in Section B. (See Note 2)

Crew Requirements: Pilot-in-Command (PIC), Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver(s), Relief PIC, Relief Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver(s), Mechanic, and Relief Mechanic (see Note 3)

Minimum Helicopter Requirements:

Seating: Five (5) insured passenger seats not including pilot, but including copilot seat in an aircraft, normally single-pilot operated.

Payload: Non-jettisonable payload (HOGE) of 850 pounds at 25 degrees C at 7,000 feet pressure altitude using a pilot weight of 200 pounds, a 25-pound survival kit and fuel for 1.9 hours. (See Note 4)

Powerplant: Turbine engine

Performance: Rotorcraft certified in accordance with 14 CFR 27.143 paragraph (c).

Airspeed: 120 knots VNE at 30 degrees C at 7,000 feet

Note 1. Contractor may be required to operate from an alternate base(s) when dispatched by the government.

Note 2. An AS350B3, AS350B4, or a BH407 may typically fulfill the above minimum and requirements. (Note: BH407’s submitting performance per Flight Manual Supplement (FMS) 12 must maintain FMS 12 performance throughout the term of the contract.)

Note 3. See B13.1 - the mechanic may serve as fuel servicing vehicle driver.

Note 4. (Payload amounts shall be computed by using the Government’s Standard Interagency Load Calculation Method and Form and the Helicopter Fuel Consumption and Weight Reduction Chart included under Section B Exhibits along with the offered aircraft’s applicable Hover Ceiling Charts, weight and balance report and equipment list that you provide).

NOTE: All Exhibits applicable to this solicitation are included at the end of Section C.

A2 Item 1 Pricing

Offeror shall complete shaded areas only.

DESIGNATED BASE

Ravendale Helibase, Ravendale, CA

EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

100 calendar days START DATE: June 15, 2015 (See C22) END DATE: September 22, 2015

OFFEROR NAME

AIRCRAFT FOR THIS

PRICING SCHEDULE

Make/Model

FAA Registration #

ITEM

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

EXTENDED AMOUNT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE (C24)

1A

Daily Availability Guaranteed days per aircraft subject to availability (See Note 1)

AV

Guaranteed

DAYS

1B

Estimated Flight Hours (WET, with fuel) Price per flight hour for estimated flight hours (See Note 2)

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS

1C MUTUAL EXTENSION (Optional) Price per day for AVAILABILITY During Extension Period

AV

Estimated same as 1A

1D MUTUAL EXTENSION (Optional) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

FT

Estimated

The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency, and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

$40,000.00

BASE YEAR 2015 – ESTIMATED TOTAL

Contract Year Two – 2016 (Option Year One)

ANNUAL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

Continuous Period of 100 Days

ANNUAL OPTIONAL EXTENSION PERIOD

Option to Extend Day-by-day (EST) 30 Days. (See C23)

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE (C24)

2A

(See Note 1)

AV

2B

(See Note 2)

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS

2C

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per day for AVAILABILITY During Extension Period

DAYS

same as 2A

2D

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS

same as 2B

2E

Additional pay items (see schedule following line item pricing) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency, and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

See Additional Pay Items Schedule for Rates

OPTION YEAR ONE – ESTIMATED TOTAL – 2nd year, 2016

Contract Year Three – 2017 (Option Year Two)

ANNUAL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

ANNUAL OPTIONAL EXTENSION PERIOD

Option to Extend Day-by-day (EST) 30 Days. (See C23)

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE (C24)

3A

AV

3B

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS

3C

MUTUAL EXTENSION

DAYS

same as 2A

3D

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS

same as 2B

3E

Additional pay items (see schedule following line item pricing) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency, and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

OPTION YEAR TWO – ESTIMATED TOTAL – 3rd year, 2017

Contract Year Four – 2018 (Option Year Three)

ANNUAL EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

ANNUAL OPTIONAL EXTENSION PERIOD

Option to Extend Day-by-day (EST) 30 Days. (See C23)

DESCRIPTION

PAY

ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

DAILY AVAILABILITY PRICE PER DAY – GUARANTEED SUBJECT TO BEING AVAILABLE (C24)

4A

AV

4B

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS

4C

MUTUAL EXTENSION

DAYS

same as 2A

4D

MUTUAL EXTENSION

(OPTIONAL) Price per FLIGHT HOUR During Extension Period

FT

Estimated

FLIGHT HOURS

same as 2B

4E

Additional pay items (see schedule following line item pricing) The additional pay item estimated amount is calculated by the agency, and is for funding purposes only. The amount implies no guarantee.

OPTION YEAR THREE – ESTIMATED TOTAL – 4th year, 2018

ESTIMATED TOTAL, AVAILABILITY AND FLIGHT HOURS – All Years

(1) The above guaranteed quantities represent the total guarantee of daily availability that will apply if order is placed under this pricing scheme, subject to unavailability.

(2) Flight rate should be bid Wet, with fuel for flight services in the Lower 48 States. All fuel shall be provided by the contractor. Aircraft furnished under this contract may perform in any of the 48 conterminous United States and/or Alaska with transit through Canada. (See B1.5 and the Alaska Supplement Exhibit 1 in Section C.) For flights in Alaska, flight time will be paid at a dry rate. The dry rate will be calculated by reducing the current (wet) flight rate by the base price of fuel multiplied by the hourly fuel consumption rate for the type aircraft as shown in the Helicopter Fuel Consumption and Weight Reduction Chart Exhibit.

(3) The totals for availability and estimated flight for all years will be added together to arrive at the estimated evaluated price for each offeror. See D11.

(4) The start date for services may be changed by the issuance of a Notice to Proceed in accordance with C22.

(5) Exhibits that will be applicable under the contract are included at the end of Section C; exhibits that are only applicable during the solicitation phase of this procurement are included at the end of Section E.

ADDITIONAL PAY ITEMS SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE

SUB-ITEM

ADDITIONAL PAY ITEMS

PAY ITEM CODE

QUANTITY

UNIT

APPLICABLE FOR OPERATIONS IN CONTERMIMOUS 48 STATES

I

SML

INDEFINITE

MILE

750-1,499 gallons $ 2.45 vi

Miscellaneous Contractor Costs (Special Charge)

FOR GOVERNMENT USE ONLY – DO NOT WRITE IN THIS AREA

Contracting Officer will complete at time of award and again when fuel adjustments are made Requested and Effective Date This Adjustment

Type Aircraft

|X| Jet Fuel |_| Av Gas

Base Price

$5.98

Reference Price

Effective Date

12/18/2014

Source Document

ORIGINAL CONTRACT

Source Document

Difference

$ X consumption rate of

Increase Due

Old Flight Rate

New Flight Rate

Re-established Base Price

BELOW INFORMATION SHALL BE COMPLETED BY THE CONTRACTING AGENCY AT AWARD

Aircraft payload is an element of your offer. The hover-out-of ground effect (HOGE) payload that was confirmed for the aircraft identified on the following page is made a part of the contract. Payload is computed using the Section A payload requirement and will be verified at the time of aircraft inspection. Water/retardant bucket sizes accepted for this contract are identified below. Contractor’s Fuel Service Vehicle size relative to number of gallons of fuel the vehicle can carry is identified below.

GOVERNMENT USE ONLY

CONFIRMED HOGE PAYLOAD AMOUNT

PERFORMANCE REFERENCE (FLIGHT MANUAL PAGE/CHART)

WATER/RETARDANT BUCKET CAPACITY REQUIRED

1ST

2ND

FUEL SERVICE VEHICLE SIZE (IN GALLONS)

SECTION B – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

B1 Scope of Contract

B1.1 The intent of this contract is to obtain fully Contractor operated and maintained exclusive use helicopter flight services to transport personnel and/or cargo in support of Government natural resource missions. Contractor services include provision of a helicopter, personnel, fuel servicing vehicle, fuel, and all other associated equipment, as prescribed in this solicitation. Missions will include, but are not limited to, fire suppression, fire monitoring, initial attack, prescribed fire and aerial ignition, law enforcement limited to non-threatening surveillance and reconnaissance, and other administrative and related resource activities. The Government will direct aircraft to support its missions and objectives.

B1.2 During the exclusive use period and any subsequent extension, aircraft furnished shall be subject to the exclusive use and control of the Government 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

B1.3 The Government and Contractor must establish an effective working relationship to successfully complete this contract. The Contractor’s employees’ cooperation, professionalism, and positive attitude toward aviation safety and accomplishment of the mission are an integral element of this relationship.

B1.4 The Government has interagency and cooperative agreements with other Federal and State agencies and private landholders and may dispatch aircraft under this contract for such cooperative use.

B1.5 This aircraft may be dispatched to Alaska. Because deployment to Alaska usually requires transit through Canada, all required contractor personnel must possess current passports. For the Alaska-specific equipment and/or operational requirements, refer to the Alaska Supplement Exhibit (see Section C).

B2 Certifications

The Contractor must hold and keep current all of the following required certificates and must ensure that contract aircraft are operated and maintained in compliance with those certificates at all times:

B2.1 A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Carrier or Operating Certificate which authorizes the Contractor to operate in the category and class of aircraft and under flight conditions required by this contract (e.g., rotorcraft, visual flight rules (VFR) day/night, passengers, and cargo) in the conterminous United States and Alaska B2.2 A Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 135 (14 CFR 135) Air Carrier Certificate. These aircraft must be carried on the list required by 14 CFR 135.63 or Operations Specifications Part D, "Aircraft Listing," as appropriate.

B2.3 A 14 CFR 133, Rotorcraft External Load Operations Certificate which authorizes Class B loads, as a minimum.

B2.4 A 14 CFR 137, Agricultural Aircraft Operations Certificate.

B2.5 The contract aircraft must have a Standard Airworthiness Certificate. Installation of any equipment required by this contract must be FAA approved.

B3 Order of Precedence (Specifications)

In the event of inconsistencies within the technical specification, the following order will be used in such resolution: (1) typed provisions of these specifications; (2) DOI Office of Aviation Services (OAS) supplements and/or exhibits incorporated by reference; (3) 14 CFR incorporated by reference; (4) aircraft manufacturer's specifications; (5) other documents incorporated by reference.

B4 Contracts

B4.1 The Contractor must maintain a complete, current printed copy of the contract and all modifications in each contract aircraft throughout the performance period.

B4.2 The pilot must have task order information (i.e. task number, performance period) in his/her possession prior to any flights under this contract and make this information available to government representatives on request. Following receipt of a printed task order, the pilot will carry a hard copy of the task order in the aircraft.

B4.3 Electronic copies of contracts and task orders may be used, however an electronic copy of the contract does not cancel the requirement to keep a printed copy of the contract in the aircraft.

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

B5 Condition of Equipment

The Contractor-furnished helicopter, fuel servicing vehicle, and all other required equipment must be operable, free of damage, and in good repair. Aircraft systems and components must be free of leaks, except where specified by the manufacturer.

B5.1 Prior to inspection and acceptance, the Contractor must permanently repair or replace all windows and windshields that have been temporarily repaired. All windows and windshields must be maintained at all times and must be clean and free of scratches, cracks, crazing, distortion, repairs, or tinting which hinders visibility.

B5.2 The aircraft interior must be clean and neat with no unrepaired tears, rips, or other damage. The exterior finish, including the paint, must be clean, neat, and in good condition. Any corrosion must be within manufacturer or FAA acceptable limits.

B5.3 Lap belt and shoulder harness assemblies shall be in acceptable condition as determined by the Government. See the Unacceptable Lap Belt and Shoulder Harness Conditions Exhibit (see Section C) for examples of lap belt and shoulder harness conditions that are not acceptable.

B5.4 Military or other similar low visibility paint schemes are unacceptable. The Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR) may approve high visibility enhancements.

B6 Aircraft Equipment Requirements

The Contractor must provide one fully compliant helicopter that is equipped as shown below for each item:

B6.1 A complete set of current aeronautical charts covering the expected area of operations.

B6.2 One digital hour meter installed in a location visible by the pilot and front seat observer while seated. The meter must be wired in series with a switch on the collective control, and a switch activated by engine or transmission oil pressure or by equivalent means, to record flight time only.

B6.3 Free air temperature gauge.

B6.4 One set of individual lap belts for each installed seat.

B6.5 Double strap shoulder harness with automatic or manual locking inertia reel for each front seat occupant. Shoulder straps and lap belts must fasten with one single-point metal-to-metal, quick-release mechanism. Heavy-duty (military-style) harnesses with fabric loop connecting the shoulder harness to the male portion of the lap belt buckle are acceptable.

B6.6 Shoulder harnesses equipped with inertia reel (either single-strap or double-strap) for each aft cabin occupant. Shoulder harness straps and lap belts must fasten with a single-point, metal-to-metal, quick-release mechanism.

B6.7 Fire extinguisher(s), as required by 14 CFR 135, must be a handheld bottle, minimum 2-B:C rating, mounted and accessible to the flight crew while seated. (See the fire extinguisher maintenance instructions in Section B29.)

B6.8 Dual controls for initial pilot performance evaluation. (May also be required for interim or recurrent pilot performance evaluations at the option of the Government.)

B6.9 Aircraft lighting for night operation in accordance with 14 CFR 91.205(c), including instrument lights.

B6.10 A strobe light (with either a white, or half-white/half-red lens) or a flashing LED (red or white), mounted on top of the aircraft or otherwise visible from above, with an independent activating switch. A red strobe or rotating beacon does not satisfy this requirement.

B6.11 High visibility, pulsating, forward-facing, conspicuity lighting.

B6.12 High visibility markings on main rotor blades as specified by the Acceptable Paint Schemes Exhibit.

B6.13 High-skid-type landing gear if manufactured for make and model.

B6.14 Personnel access steps for aircraft with a floor height greater than 18 inches to ensure safe entrance and exit from each door.

B6.15 Locking cap(s) on all fuel inlet ports.

B6.16 Cabin heater and window defogger.

B6.17 Wire strike protection system (mechanical). (Note: If manufactured for the make and model of helicopter.)

B6.18 Main rotor brake.

B6.19 Snow/tundra pads (Note: To be installed when requested by the Government.)

B6.20 Reserved

B6.21 Cargo compartment, internal and external capable of accommodating 58-inch long shovels, rakes, and other tools as specified below:

For internal:

B6.21.1 15-cubic-foot baggage compartment within the aircraft fuselage specifically designed to carry cargo separate from the cabin. (Note: Requires rear bulkhead modification required on some models of aircraft.)

For external:

B6.21.2 Cargo basket. An externally side-mounted basket constructed with tubular frame and expanded metal incorporating a locking lid to secure cargo.

Note: AS350 aircraft must be equipped with a cargo basket such the Dart Heli-Utility basket model D350-607-045 (57”length) or equivalent.

All construction methods must be as prescribed by Advisory Circulars 43.13-1B and 43.13-2B or other FAA approval.

Note:

1. Basket/rack must be quick attach/detach.

2. If Bell Helicopter Textron model helicopter, an external cargo compartment is not required.

B6.22 Cargo restraint system for aircraft manufactured with a parcel/storage area behind the rear passenger seats.

B6.23 An accessory power source consisting of an MS 3112E-12-3S three-pin connector, accessible in the aft cabin. Pin B must be airframe ground; pin A must be +28VDC (for 28-volt aircraft); and pin C must be +14VDC (for 14-volt aircraft). The circuit must be protected by a 5-amp circuit protection.

B6.24 A first aid kit containing items specified in the First Aid and Survival Kits Exhibit (see Section C) must be carried aboard the aircraft on all flights.

B6.25 A survival kit containing items specified in First Aid and Survival Kits Exhibit (see Section C) must be carried aboard the aircraft on all flights and must be included in weight and balance/load calculations.

B6.26 A convex mirror for the pilot to observe the sling load.

B6.27 One keeperless cargo hook that may be loaded and locked in a single motion with one hand and is rated at the maximum lifting capacity of the aircraft. (See the cargo hook maintenance requirements in Section B29.)

B6.28 Cockpit-mounted external load indicator with readout of weight carried on the cargo hook.

B6.29 One collapsible, variable capacity water/retardant bucket. See the Water Bucket Use Procedures Exhibit (see Section C). The bucket must have a manufacturer's capacity adjustment commensurate with the maximum lifting capability (HOGE-J) of the contract aircraft at 5,000 feet pressure altitude (PA), 30˚ Celsius with a 200-pound pilot, 25-pound survival kit, and 1.5 total hours of fuel. The bucket must be capable of being operated with all increments of the longline; i.e., 50, 100, 150 feet.

B6.30 A second collapsible, variable capacity water/retardant bucket. See the Water Bucket Use Procedures Exhibit (see section C). The bucket must have a manufacturer's capacity adjustment commensurate with the maximum lifting capability (HOGE-J) of the contract aircraft at 7,000 feet PA, 30˚ Celsius with a 200-pound pilot, 25-pound survival kit, and 1.5 total hours of fuel. The bucket must also be capable of being operated with all increments of the longline; i.e., 50, 100, 150 feet.

Note: The bucket combinations provided in B6.29 and B6.30 must provide adjustments that allow the widest range of altitude/temperature combinations (subject to the limitations of the bucket manufacturer’s available sizes) for the maximum lifting capability of the helicopter beginning at 5,000 feet PA at 30˚ Celsius extending upward to 7,000 feet PA at 30˚ Celsius and above.

B6.31 A remote operating switch for the water/retardant bucket and/or remote hook clearly marked for "open" and "closed" and mounted on the collective control to avoid confusion with the airframe cargo hook release. The switch must be of a different design and must be mounted so as to not easily be confused with the RPM Control [Beep Range] switch.

B6.32 Part number MS 3101E-24-11S, nine-pin connector, for use as the power source for a helitorch or remote cargo hook. Pin D must be airframe ground. Pin E must be switched 28VDC, protected by a manually operable, 50-amp circuit breaker. The water bucket/tank open switch must also activate this circuit.

B6.32.1 A lanyard to support the connector and mounted within 12 inches of the cargo hook.

B6.32.2 This connector must have multiple circuit capacity sufficient to provide power and control for Contractor-furnished equipment. The longline remote hook, fixed tank, or water bucket must be wired through this connector. A list of water buckets with required pin wiring can be found in the USDA Forest Service/DOI OAS Drawing A16 Exhibit (see Section C). Wiring diagrams for various equipment configurations are available from the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Aviation Services, 300 E. Mallard Drive, Suite 200, Boise, ID 83706, or USDA Forest Service, 3833 S. Development Avenue, Boise, ID 83705-5354.

B6.33 One remote cargo hook with related cabling and release system complying with the following specifications:

B6.33.1 Electrically activated remote cargo hook that may be loaded and locked in a single motion with one hand and that is rated at the maximum lifting capacity of the aircraft.

B6.33.2 The remote hook must be protected by a metal ring or cage that does not interfere with the use or function of the hook.

B6.33.3 Synthetic rope meeting the requirements of the Helicopter Synthetic Longline Requirements Exhibit (see Section C).

B6.33.4 The length of the rope must be readily adjustable from 50 to 150 feet in 50-foot increments.

B6.33.5 Electrical cables must be protected from pinching by hooks or shackles and from damage caused by stretching of the line. The electrical wire must be long enough at the aircraft cargo hook end to prevent a swinging load from unplugging the electrical connector.

B6.33.6 All fabrication and installation methods must comply with 14 CFR 133 and Advisory Circular 43.13–1B.

B6.33.7 Operating switch for the remote hook. (See B6.31 for specification. Only 1 switch required)

B6.34 Internal Litter Kit (Note: To be installed when requested by the Government.)

B6.35 Alaska-specific equipment requirements. Refer to the Alaska Supplement Exhibit. (See Section C.)

B7 Avionics Requirements

B7.1 General

B7.1.1 The Contractor must provide, install, and maintain the following systems in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and the installation and maintenance standards of Section B7. Detailed avionics systems performance requirements are listed in Avionics Operational Test Standards (copies available upon request from OAS Avionics, or the most recent list may be found online at: http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/docs/avionics/FSAMD_A24E.pdf .

B7.2 Avionics Installation and Maintenance Standards

B7.2.1 Strict adherence to the recommendations in the following FAA Advisory Circulars is required: AC 43.131B Chapter 11, "Aircraft Electrical Systems," and Chapter 12, "Aircraft Avionics Systems”; AC 43.132B Chapter 1, "Structural Data," Chapter 2, "Communication, Navigation, and Emergency Locator Transmitter System Installations," and Chapter 3, "Antenna Installation."

B7.2.2 All avionics systems requiring an antenna must be installed with a properly matched, aircraft-certified antenna, unless otherwise specified. Antennas must be polarized as required by the avionics system and must have a voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) of 3.0 to 1 or better.

B7.2.3 Although the contract aircraft may not be certified for flight under instrument flight rules (IFR), the aircraft's static pressure system, altimeter instrument system, and automatic pressure altitude reporting system must be maintained in accordance with the IFR requirements of 14 CFR Part 91.411 and inspected and tested every 24 calendar months, as specified by 14 CFR Part 43, appendices E and F.

B7.3 Communications Systems

B7.3.1 One automatic-fixed Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), certified under TSO-C126 (or newer) which must be installed in a conspicuous or marked location, and meet the same requirements as those detailed for airplanes in 14 CFR 91.207 (excluding section f). ELT antennas must be mounted externally to the aircraft unless installed in a location approved by the aircraft manufacturer. TSO-C126 and newer ELTs require documentation of current registration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), or the national civil aviation authority with which the aircraft is registered.

B7.3.2 Two panel-mounted VHF-AM (VHF-1, VHF-2) aeronautical transceivers, each with a minimum of 760 channels covering 118.000 to 136.975 MHz. The transceivers must have channels selectable in no greater than 25 kHz increments and a minimum of 5 watts carrier output power. The transceivers’ operational controls must be mounted so they are readily visible and accessible to the pilot.

B7.3.3 Two P25-compliant VHF-FM transceivers. Each transceiver (FM-1, FM-2), must provide selection of narrowband analog (12.5 kHz), wideband analog (25.0 kHz), or narrowband digital (12.5kHz) operation on each of a minimum of 100 channels. Each transceiver’s operational controls must be located and arranged so that the pilot and observer/copilot when seated, have full and unrestricted movement of each control without interference from clothing, the cockpit structure, or the flight controls.

B7.3.3.1 Each transceiver’s operational frequency range must include the band of 136.0000 MHz to 173.9975 MHz. The operator(s) must be able to program any usable channels within that band, along with any required CTCSS tones, National Access Codes (NAC’s), or Talk Group ID’s (TGID’s), while in flight. Each transceiver must also incorporate a separate, programmable GUARD receiver, with accompanying GUARD transmit capability. Unless instructed by the Government for use on a specific project, all frequencies programmed for use under this Contract must be in the narrowband analog mode.

B7.3.3.2 Carrier output power for each transceiver must be 10 watts nominal value (original design specification). Each transceiver must be capable of displaying receiver and transmitter operating frequency, alpha-numeric channel labels, and must provide both receiver and transmitter activation indicators for MAIN and GUARD. Simultaneous monitoring of both MAIN and GUARD receivers is required. Scanning of the GUARD frequency is not acceptable.

B7.3.3.3 Prior to acceptance under this contract, at least one transceiver must be programmed with the narrowband analog GUARD receive and transmit frequencies of 168.625 MHz, with a 110.9 Hz CTCSS tone on transmit only.

B7.3.3.4 The following VHF-FM aeronautical transceivers are known to meet the above requirements:

Technisonics: TDFM-136, TDFM-136A, TDFM-136/NV, TDFM-136A/NV, TDFM-136B, TDFM-136B/NV.

Cobham: (formerly NAT) NPX-136D-070.

B7.3.3.5 Each required VHF-FM transceiver must be equipped with a conveniently-located programming port, to facilitate programming via a Government-owned laptop computer. The port(s) must be protected from accidental damage via contact, be hard-wired to the transceiver(s), not require switching of any cables for utilization, and must be conveniently located for ease of use. The Contractor must also furnish appropriate cables of adequate length, and/or any necessary adapters, to interconnect the aircraft programming ports to the serial and/or USB port(s) of the Government laptop computers as required. NOTE: The “DIN” type connector receptacle on the front panel of some TDFM-136-series radios is part of an encryption feature, and may not function as a programming port connector. This connector can be utilized for channel programming on model TDFM-136A, serial numbers FDA1200 and higher, and model TDFM-136B ONLY.

B7.3.4 Provisions for auxiliary VHF-FM (AUX-FM) portable radio:

B7.3.4.1 Interface for installing and properly operating an auxiliary VHF-FM portable radio through the aircraft's audio control system(s). The interface must consist of the appropriate wiring from the audio control system, terminated in an ITT/Cannon type MS3112E1210S 10-pin connector conveniently located for use by the observer/copilot, and utilizing the contact assignments as specified by drawing FS/OAS-17 in the exhibits.

B7.3.4.2 One weatherproof, external, broadband antenna covering the 150174 MHz band, with associated RG58A/U (or equivalent) coaxial cable and connector, terminated in a bulkhead-mounted, female BNC connector (type UG-290A), conveniently located for use by the observer/copilot adjacent to the above 10-pin connector (Comant model CI177 or equal).

B7.3.4.3 Mounting facilities for securely installing the auxiliary VHF-FM portable radio in the cockpit in accordance with the FAA AC 43.13-2B specifications. Locate and arrange the mounting facilities so that a seated observer/copilot has full and unrestricted movement of the radio's controls, without interference from the 18-inch adapter cable, clothing, cockpit structure, or flight controls.

B7.3.4.4 Positive-polarity microphone excitation voltage provided to the AUX-FM system from the aircraft DC power system through a suitable resistor network. A blocking capacitor must be provided to prevent the portable radio microphone excitation voltage from entering the system. Sidetone for the AUX-FM must also be provided (NAT model AA34-300, Premier model PA-34, or equivalent).

B7.3.4.5 The Contractor must provide an auxiliary FM adapter cord assembly to interface the connectors and circuits necessary to operate the BK Radio DPH/EPH/GPH series radio through the MS 3112E-12-10S connector in the aircraft. The FS/OAS drawing A-15 Exhibit is provided as one possible interface.

B7.3.5 One satellite-based aircraft tracking hardware compatible with the government’s Automated Flight Following (AFF) Program (https://aff.gov). Not all available satellite based tracking systems are compatible with the Government’s AFF Program, nor meets AFF’s requirements. The contractor must ensure that the aircraft hardware offered is compatible with AFF. For questions about current compatibility requirements contact the AFF Program Manager listed under contacts at: https://www.aff.gov.

B7.3.5.1 The AFF aircraft hardware must be powered by the aircraft’s electrical system, installed per the manufacturer’s installation manual, and operational in all phases of flight. AFF aircraft hardware must utilize as a minimum: Satellite communications, an externally or internally mounted antenna, provide data to the Government’s AFF viewing software, use aircraft power via a dedicated circuit breaker for power protection, and be mounted so as to not endanger any occupant from AFF aircraft hardware during periods of turbulence. Antennas should be placed where they have the best view of the overhead sky as possible. Externally mounted antennas are recommended to improve system performance. Any visual indicators for remotely installed units must be mounted so that they can be easily viewed by the pilot.

B7.3.5.2 AFF communications must be fully operational in all 50 states. Contractors working in or accepting dispatches to the State of Alaska, Southern Canada, or Western Canada must have an AFF system capable of being tracked in these locations at all times. Not all manufacturers’ AFF equipment communication links will operate effectively in all geographic areas.

B7.3.5.3 The contractor must maintain a subscription service through the AFF aircraft hardware provider allowing AFF position reporting for satellite tracking via the Government AFF viewing software. The position-reporting interval must be every two minutes while the aircraft is in flight. The contractor must register their AFF aircraft hardware with the Government through https://www.aff.gov providing: complete tail number; manufacturer and serial number of the AFF transceiver; aircraft make and model; and contractor contact information. If the contractor relocates previously registered AFF aircraft hardware into another aircraft, then the contractor must contact the government’s AFF Program making the appropriate changes prior to aircraft use. In all cases, the contractor must ensure that the correct aircraft information is indicated within AFF. The contractor must contact the Government of system changes, scheduled maintenance, and planned service outages

B7.3.5.4 Registration contact information, a web accessible feedback form, and additional information is available at: https://www.aff.gov. The Fire Applications Support Desk (FASD) can be reached at (866) 224-7677 or (360) 326-6002.

B7.3.5.5 Prior to the aircraft’s annual contract inspection, the contractor must ensure compliance with all AFF systems requirements. The contractor must additionally perform an operational check of the system. As a minimum, the operational check must consist of confirming the aircraft being tested is displayed in AFF (indicating it is currently transmitting data to AFF) and that all information displayed in AFF is current. A username and password are required to access AFF. Log on to the AFF website at: https://www.aff.gov to request a username and password, or contact the FASD.

B7.3.5.6 If AFF becomes inoperable/unreliable the aircraft may, at the discretion of the Government, remain available for service utilizing radio/voice system for flight following. The contractor will return the AFF system to full operational capability within 72 hours after the inoperative/unreliable unit is first discovered as defective.

B7.3.5.7 This clause incorporates Specification Section Supplement available at: https://www.aff.gov/contractspecs with the same force and affect as if they were presented as full text herein.

B7.4 Navigational Systems

B7.4.1 One permanently installed, panel-mounted global positioning system (GPS-1) utilizing an approved, fixed external aircraft antenna and powered by the aircraft electrical system or an aviation portable GPS unit (Garmin GPSMap 296/396/496 or equivalent) provided the portable unit is securely mounted, is equipped with a remote (i.e., not part of the GPS unit) antenna, and presents information from an overhead orientation (not a drive-along-the-road type), and is powered by the aircraft electrical system. The GPS (permanently installed or portable) must utilize the WGS-84 datum and reference latitude and longitude coordinates in the degrees/minutes/decimal minutes (DM) mode for aircraft positioning. The primary GPS must also have near real-time weather downlink capability.

B7.5 Audio Systems

B7.5.1 Two separate audio control systems (which may be combined in a single unit) for the pilot and observer/co-pilot to select receiver audio outputs and transmitter microphone/push to talk (PTT) audio inputs for all installed radios and public address (PA) systems. Each system must also allow the pilot and observer/copilot to independently adjust both the intercommunications system (ICS) and the receiver audio output levels.

B7.5.1.1 Transmitter selection and operation. Separate transmitter selection controls must be provided for both the pilot’s and observer/copilot’s microphone/PTT inputs. The system must be configured so the pilot and observer/copilot may each simultaneously select and utilize a different transmitter (or PA system when installed) via their respective microphone/PTT. Whenever a transmitter is selected, the companion receiver audio must automatically be selected for the corresponding earphone. Transmitter sidetone audio must be provided for the user as well as for cross-monitoring via the corresponding receiver selection switch on the other audio control system.

B7.5.1.1.1 The two aft cabin exit positions must be equipped to transmit on the radio(s). Whenever a radio (or PA, when so equipped) microphone input is selected at the observer/copilot's audio control panel, the aft cabin passengers' radio microphone inputs must automatically be connected to the same radio, and they must then be capable of transmitting on that radio via their respective radio transmit PTT switches.

B7.5.1.2 Receiver selection and operation. Separate controls must be provided for both pilot and observer/copilot to select audio from one or any combination of available receivers. The ICS-equipped aft passenger positions must monitor the receiver(s) as selected by the observer/copilot. The receiver audio output must be free of excessive distortion, hum, noise, and crosstalk, and must be amplified sufficiently to facilitate ease of use in a noisy cockpit/cabin environment.

B7.5.1.3 The audio system(s) controls must be located and arranged so that both the pilot and observer/copilot, when seated, have full movement of their respective controls without interference from their clothing, the cockpit structure, or the flight controls. Labeling and marking of controls must be clear, understandable, legible, and permanent. Electronic label maker marking is acceptable.

B7.5.2 An ICS for the pilot, observer/copilot, and all aft cabin positions. ICS audio must mix with, but not mute, selected receiver audio. An ICS audio level control must be provided for each position above. Adjustment of the ICS audio level at any position must not affect the level at any other position. A "hot mic" capability, controlled via an activation switch or voice activation (VOX), must be provided for the pilot and copilot/observer positions. ICS sidetone audio must be provided for the earphones corresponding with the microphone in use. The ICS audio output must be free of excessive distortion, hum, noise, and crosstalk and must be amplified sufficiently to facilitate ease of use in a noisy cockpit/cabin environment.

B7.5.3 Earphones, microphones, PTT’s, and jacks designed for operation with 600-ohm earphones and carbon-equivalent, noise-canceling boom type microphones (Gentex electret type model 50602, military dynamic type M87/AIC with type CE100 TR preamplifier, or equivalent) with U174/U (single/male) type connector plug. The pilot position only may be configured for low impedance (dynamic) operation.

B7.5.3.1 All earphone/microphone jacks in the aircraft (except the pilot's) must be U-92A/U (single/female) type, which will accept U-174/U type plugs.

B7.5.3.2 Separate PTT switches for radio transmitter and ICS microphone operation must be provided at the pilot, observer/copilot, and any other positions required above to be furnished with both radio transmitter and ICS operation. The pilot's PTT switches must be mounted on the cyclic control. The observer/copilot's and any other required position’s PTT switches must be mounted on the cord to the earphone/microphone connector. The aft cabin positions must be furnished with cord-mounted ICS PTT switches.

B7.6 Other Avionics

B7.6.1 One air traffic control (ATC) transponder and altitude reporting system meeting the requirements of 14 CFR Part 91.215 (a) and (b), and inspected and tested every 24 months in accordance with 14 CFR 91.413.

B7.6.2 One APCO Project 25 compliant (P25) VHF-FM "multi-mode" two-way mobile radio, with a matched broad-band antenna, must be mounted in the fuel-servicing vehicle. The radio's operational bandwidth must include the 150 MHz to 174 MHz frequency band, with user-programmable (in the field) channels. Selection of wideband (25.0 kHz) analog, narrowband (12.5 kHz) analog, or digital (12.5 kHz) spacing is required on each channel. The radio must be frequency-synthesized, equipped with the lowest 32 CTCSS sub-audible tones, and must develop a minimum of 30 watts carrier output power. Use of appropriate portable VHF-FM radios with suitable output power booster units is permissible.

The following radio models are known to meet the above requirements:

Datron: G25RMV100, G25RMV110, G25ASU001 Kenwood: TK-5710, TK-5720 Midland: STM-1050B, STM-1055B, STM-1115B Relm(BK) Radio: DMH5992 with Smartmic, DMH5992X HP with Smartmic Relm: KNG-M150 NOTE: As of February 10, 2014, no other mobile radios were known to meet the above requirements. See http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/docs/approved_radios.pdf for a complete, current listing of approved radios.

B7.6.3 One APCO Project 25 compliant (P25) VHF-FM two-way portable radio for pilot call-back, operating in the 150 MHz to 174 MHz frequency band, frequency-synthesized, CTCSS 32 sub-audible tone capable, user programmable in the field, with a minimum of 5 watts carrier output power, must be furnished for use by the pilot-in-command (PIC). Selection of wideband (25.0 kHz) analog, narrowband (12.5 kHz) analog, or digital (12.5kHz) spacing is required on each channel.

The following radio models are known to meet the above requirements:

Datron: Guardian G25PRV100 Midland: STP105B Motorola: XTS 2500 & XTS 5000*

* only w/R.15.00.05 or newer software Relm(BK): DHP5102X, DPHX5102X Relm: KNG-P150 Thales(Racal): 25 PRC-6894

NOTE: As of February 10, 2014, no other portable radios were known to meet the above requirements. See http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/docs/approved_radios.pdf for a complete, current listing of approved radios.

B7.6.4 The Contractor must furnish a cellular telephone for use by the PIC. The cellular telephone must be provided with service to the area of the contiguous 48 States. Each cellular telephone must be equipped with both 110VAC and 12VDC adapter cord assemblies for charging use. The Contractor must provide the number of the cellular telephone to Government personnel when requested.

B8 Fuel Servicing Vehicle Equipment Requirements (Not Required in Alaska-Only in the Lower 48 States)

B8.1 General

B8.1.1 Fuel servicing vehicles must meet 49 CFR requirements.

B8.1.2…