Solicitation_D15PS00030.pdf

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

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

OFFEROR

D41

Suite 200 300 East Mallard Drive Division 4/ Branch 1 Interior Business Center, AQD

CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

481211

SIZE STANDARD:

100.00 % FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED ORD41

RFPIFB

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

RFQ

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NAICS:

SMALL BUSINESS

01/23/2015 1500 MT

12/24/2014

208-433-5016John Hedeen (No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBER a. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

D15PS00030

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

1 83 OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

Boise ID 83706

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

Moab UT Bureau of Land Management

15. DELIVER TO

Boise ID 83706 Suite 200 300 East Mallard Drive Division 4/ Branch 1

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

1,500

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

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

Interior Business Center, AQD

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

Period of Performance: 03/01/2015 to 02/28/2019

Offeror shall complete Section A were indicated and submit a proposal prepared in accordance with Section D.

00010 BLM Exclusive Use Helicopter, Moab, UT.

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

X

XX

DATED

John Hedeen

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

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

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

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

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

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

REF.

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE 32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED

40. PAID BY39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41c. DATE41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

83 2 of

SECTION A - REQUIREMENTS AND PRICES

Solicitation D15PS00030 3 BLM Exclusive Use Helicopter, Moab, UT

Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

SECTION A

A1 ITEM REQUIREMENT

A2 SCHEDULE FOR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

SECTION B – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

B1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT

B2 CERTIFICATIONS

B3 ORDER OF PRECEDENCE (SPECIFICATIONS)

B4 CONTRACT DOCUMENTATION

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

B5 CONDITION OF EQUIPMENT

B6 AIRCRAFT EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

B7 AVIONICS REQUIREMENTS

B8 FUEL SERVICING VEHICLE EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS16

PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

B9 PILOT REQUIREMENTS

B10 PILOT QUALIFICATIONS

B11 PERSONNEL DUTY LIMITATIONS

B12 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS’ DUTY AND FLIGHT

LIMITATIONS

B13 MECHANIC REQUIREMENTS

B14 MECHANIC QUALIFICATIONS

B15 MECHANIC DUTY LIMITATIONS

B16 FUEL SERVICING VEHICLE DRIVER REQUIREMENT AND

QUALIFICATIONS

B17 FUEL SERVICING VEHICLE DRIVER DUTY LIMITATIONS

B18 RELIEF CREW REQUIREMENT

OPERATIONS

B19 PILOT AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY

B20 FLIGHT OPERATIONS

B21 SECURITY OF AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT

B22 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) FOR FLIGHT

OPERATIONS

B23 PPE FOR GROUND OPERATIONS

B24 EXEMPTION FOR TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS

MATERIALS

B25 FUEL AND SERVICING REQUIREMENTS

AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

B26 GENERAL - MAINTENANCE

B27 AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES (AD’S) AND

MANUFACTURER'S MANDATORY SERVICE BULLETINS

(MMSB’S)

B28 MANUALS/RECORDS

B29 MAINTENANCE

B30 MAINTENANCE TEST FLIGHT

B31 TIME BETWEEN OVERHAUL (TBO) AND LIFE-LIMITED

PARTS

B32 WEIGHT AND BALANCE

B33 TURBINE ENGINE POWER ASSURANCE CHECKS

SECTION C – CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

CONTRACT CLAUSES

C1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS –

COMMERCIAL ITEMS (MAY 2014)

C2 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED

TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS-

COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEC 2014)

ADDENDA TO CONTRACT TERMS AND

CONDITIONS

C3 52.212-4(A) INSPECTION/ACCEPTANCE

C4 52.212-4(K)TAXES

C5 AIRCRAFT USE REPORTS

C5.A ELECTRONIC INVOICING AND PAYMENT

REQUIREMENTS – INVOICE PROCESSING PLATFORM (IPP)

(APR 2013)

C5.B 52.232-40 PROVIDING ACCELERATED PAYMENT TO

SMALL BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTORS (DEC 2013)

GENERAL CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS34

C6 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

C6.A 52.216-22 INDEFINITE QUANTITY (OCT 1995)

C6.B 52.216-18 ORDERING (OCT 1995)

C6.C 52.216-19 ORDER LIMITATIONS (OCT 1995)

C7 CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL SECURITY REQUIREMENTS .. 35

C8 52.232-18 AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS (APR 1984)

C9 AIRCRAFT INSURANCE

C10 RESERVED

C11 NOTICE OF CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

REPORTING SYSTEM (JULY 2010)

C12 PREWORK MEETING

C13 DIAR 1452.201-70 AUTHORITIES AND DELEGATIONS

(SEP 2011)

C14 AQD SERVICES GREENING CLAUSE

C15 LIMITATION ON SUBCONTRACTING REPORT -

ALTERNATE I (JAN 2012)

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

C16 PERSONNEL CONDUCT

C17 SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION

C18 MISHAPS

C19 ECONOMIC PRICE ADJUSTMENT - FUEL

CONTRACT AND TASK ORDER PERIODS

C20 CONTRACT PERIOD

C21 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE

CONTRACT (MAR 2000)

C22 TASK ORDER EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

C23 MUTUAL EXTENSION OF EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

DAILY AVAILABILITY

C24 AVAILABILITY REQUIREMENTS

C25 SCHEDULE OF OPERATIONS AND REACTION TIME

Solicitation D15PS00030 4

C26 MAINTENANCE DURING AVAILABILITY PERIOD

C27 UNAVAILABILITY AND DAMAGES

MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT

C28 DAILY AVAILABILITY

C29 FLIGHT TIME

C30 MOBILIZATION AND DEMOBILIZATION

C31 ADDITIONAL PAY ITEMS

C32 GOVERNMENT MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES

C33 52.222-99 ESTABLISHING A MINIMUM WAGE FOR

CONTRACTORS (JUL 2014) (DEVIATION)

C34 52.204-18 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY

CODE MAINTENANCE (NOV 2014)

CONTRACT EXHIBITS

SECTION D – INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

INTRODUCTION

D1 GENERAL INFORMATION

D2 NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM

(NAICS) CODE AND SMALL BUSINESS SIZE STANDARD

D3 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS--

COMMERCIAL ITEMS (FEB 2012)

D4 PROPOSAL CONTENTS

D5 PERIOD FOR ACCEPTANCE OF OFFERS

D5.A LATE SUBMISSIONS, MODIFICATIONS, REVISIONS, AND

WITHDRAWALS OF OFFERS

D6 DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS)

NUMBER

D7 SPECIAL NOTICE TO OFFERORS

D7.A 1452.215-71 USE AND DISCLOSURE OF PROPOSAL

INFORMATION—DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

D8 52.212-2 EVALUATION - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (OCT

2014)

D9 OFFER ACCEPTABILITY

D10 EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

D11 EVALUATION OF OFFEROR CAPABILITY

D12 EVALUATION OF PRICE

SECTION E – OFFEROR’S REPRESENTATIONS,

CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER STATEMENTS

E1 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND

CERTIFICATIONS-COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEC 2014)

E2 52.209-5 CERTIFICATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY

MATTERS (APR 2010)

E3 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY

MATTERS (JUL 2013)

E4 CERTIFICATION REGARDING A FELONY CONVICTION

UNDER ANY FEDERAL LAW OR AN UNPAID FEDERAL TAX

LIABILITY (FEB 2012)

E5 52.204-16 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY

CODE REPORTING (NOV 2014)

SOLICITATION EXHIBITS

Solicitation D15PS00030 5

CONTRACT ACRONYMS

AC Advisory Circular ACETA Aerial Capture Eradication and Tagging of Animals AD Airworthiness Directive AMD Aviation Management Directorate (now OAS) AMS Aviation Management System A&P airframe and power plant APCO Association of Public-Safety Communications

Officials AQD IBC's Acquisition Services Directorate ASM Aviation Safety Manager ASO Aviation Safety Office ASTM American Society for Testing and Material ATC air traffic control AUR Aircraft Use Report CFR Code of Federal Regulations CO Contracting Officer COR Contracting Officer’s Representative COTR Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative CFR Code of Federal Regulations CTCSS continuous tone coded squelch system DM degrees/minutes/decimal minutes DOI Department of Interior DOT Department of Transportation ELT emergency locator transmitter EPA Environmental Protection Agency ERG Emergency Response Guidebook FAA Federal Aviation Administration FAR Federal Acquisition Regulations FS Forest Service FTR Federal Travel Regulations GVW gross vehicle weight GPM gallons per minute GPS global positioning system HIGE hover-in-ground effect HOGEJ hover-out-of-ground effect, jettisonable IAT interagency aviation training IBC Interior Business Center ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization ICS intercom system IFR instrument flight rules IP Institute of Petroleum IPP Invoice Processing Platform MMSB Manufacturer’s Mandatory Service Bulletins NBC National Business Center NFPA National Fire Protection Association NTSB National Transportation Safety Board NWCG National Wildfire Coordinating Group OAS Office of Aviation Management PA public address system PFD personal flotation device PIC pilot-in-command PPE personal protective equipment PSD plastic sphere dispenser PSI pounds per square inch PTT push to talk RFP Request for Proposals RPM revolutions per minute SFI Safety Foundation Incorporated

SMS Safety Management System STEP Single-skid, Toe-In and Hover Exit/Entry Procedures TBO time between overhaul TERO Tribal Employment Rights Ordinances TSO technical service order UL Underwriter’s Laboratory USDA United States Department of Agriculture VFR visual flight rules VNE velocity never exceed VOX voice activation VSWR voltage standing wave ratio

Solicitation D15PS00030 6

SECTION A

A1 Item Requirement

ITEM DESCRIPTION

1. Aircraft Required: One light helicopter.

Crew Compliment Required: Pilot-in-Command (PIC), Mechanic, Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver(s), Relief PIC, Relief Mechanic, Relief Fuel Servicing Vehicle Driver(s)

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.

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

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.

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.)

Solicitation D15PS00030 7

A2 Schedule for Services and Prices/Costs

One Contract for One Exclusive Use (EU) Helicopter.

Offerors shall complete the shaded areas below.

DESIGNATED BASE

Moab, Utah

EXCLUSIVE USE PERIOD

90 calendar days

START DATE: June 6, 2015 (See C22) END DATE: September 3, 2015

OFFEROR NAME

Aircraft for this Pricing Schedule

Make/Model: FAA Registration #:

Rate Schedule for the First Year of the Contract: March 1, 2015 – February 29, 2016

Pay Item Descriptions Pay Item

Code Qty Units

Unit Price

Total

Daily Availability during EU Period (guaranteed)

AV

DAY $

Daily Availability during Extension (See C23) (estimated) 30 $ Hourly Flight Rate during EU Period, Wet (estimated)

FT

HOUR $

Hourly Flight Rate during Extension, Wet (estimated) 70 $ Additional Pay Items (special charges, segment tax, per diem, etc. See the rate table for Additional Pay Items) $ 40,000

ESTIMATED SUBTOTAL $

Rate Schedule for the Second Year of the Contract: March 1, 2016 – February 28, 2017

Pay Item

Code Qty Units

Unit Price

Total

Daily Availability during EU Period (guaranteed if ordered)

AV

DAY $

Daily Availability during Extension (See C23) (estimated) 30 $ Hourly Flight Rate during EU Period, Wet (estimated)

FT

HOUR $

Hourly Flight Rate during Extension, Wet (estimated) 70 $ Additional Pay Items (special charges, segment tax, per diem, etc. See the rate table for Additional Pay Items) $ 40,000

Rate Schedule for the Third Year of the Contract: March 1, 2017 – February 28, 2018

Pay Item

Code Qty Units

Unit Price

Total

Daily Availability during EU Period (guaranteed if ordered)

AV

DAY $

Daily Availability during Extension (See C23) (estimated) 30 $ Hourly Flight Rate during EU Period, Wet (estimated)

FT

HOUR $

Hourly Flight Rate during Extension, Wet (estimated) 70 $ Additional Pay Items (special charges, segment tax, per diem, etc. See the rate table for Additional Pay Items) $ 40,000

Solicitation D15PS00030 8

Rate Schedule for the Fourth Year of the Contract: March 1, 2018 – February 28, 2019

Pay Item

Code Qty Units

Unit Price

Total

Daily Availability during EU Period (guaranteed if ordered)

AV

DAY $

Daily Availability during Extension (See C23) (estimated) 30 $ Hourly Flight Rate during EU Period, Wet (estimated)

FT

HOUR $

Hourly Flight Rate during Extension, Wet (estimated) 70 $ Additional Pay Items (special charges, segment tax, per diem, etc. See the rate table for Additional Pay Items) $ 40,000

Rate Schedule for Additional Pay Items

ADDITIONAL PAY ITEM DESCRIPTIONS

PAY ITEM

CODE

QUANTITY UNIT RATES

Extended Standby – Pilot EP Indefinite Hour $ 54.00 Extended Standby – Driver Light Truck Medium Truck

ET

ET

Indefinite Indefinite

Hour Hour

$ 22.00 $ 32.00

Extended Standby - Mechanic EM Indefinite Hour $ 56.00

Fuel Servicing Vehicle Mileage

SMM

SML

Indefinite Mile 350-749 gallons $ 1.83 750-1,499 gallons $ 2.45

Subsistence Allowance (Per Diem) PD Indefinite Overnight Per FTR Schedule Special Charge for Miscellaneous Allowable Expenses SC Indefinite Each At Cost

A2.1 Funding will not be obligated under the Indefinite-Delivery Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contract. Instead, the Contracting Officer will issue the contractor a separate task order prior to each fire season covered under the contract. Each task order will obligate funding for the payment of aircraft services.

A2.2 The Minimum Guarantee under the contract, as required by contract clause 52.216-22, is the total amount for Daily Availability during the Exclusive Use Period (90 days) under the first year’s task order; however, the guaranteed quantity for daily availability is subject to reductions due to unavailability (see C24). The estimated quantity for daily availability during an extension of the exclusive use period is not guaranteed and also is subject to reductions due to unavailability.

A2.3 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.

A2.4 The start date for services may be changed by the issuance of a Notice to Proceed in accordance with paragraph C22.

A2.5 The second through fourth contract years are individual option years (see C21).

Solicitation D15PS00030 9

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The hourly flight rates you propose are subject to adjustment, up or down, due to the fluctuation in fuel price at the location referenced below. It is important for you to understand the ramifications of the contract's Economic Price Adjustment clause (see C19). The referenced price below should be considered when developing the hourly flight rates offered in your proposal. If the price per gallon for jet fuel drops significantly, the Government is entitled to a downward adjustment to the hourly flight rates based upon the change in fuel price and the hourly fuel consumption of the contract aircraft.

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

Jet Fuel Av Gas

Fuel Source Location Redtail Aviation, Canyonlands Field, Moab, UT 435-259-7421

Jet Fuel Base Price

$ 5.80

Reference Price

Effective Date

Solicitation Date

Source Document

Solicitation

Source Document

Old Flight Rate

New Flight Rate

Re-established Base Price

The below information will be completed and included in any contract awarded.

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 appropriate for this contract are identified below.

GOVERNMENT USE ONLY

CONFIRMED HOGE PAYLOAD AMOUNT

PERFORMANCE REFERENCE (FLIGHT MANUAL PAGE/CHART)

WATER/RETARDANT BUCKET CAPACITY REQUIRED (Gallons) 1ST: 2ND:

FUEL TRUCK CAPACITY (Gallons)

SECTION B – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Solicitation D15PS00030 10

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, cargo letdown, 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; and (5) other documents incorporated by reference.

B4 Contract Documentation

B4.1 The Contractor must maintain a complete, current printed copy of the contract and all modification 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.

Solicitation D15PS00030 11

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.

Solicitation D15PS00030 12

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 A-16 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

Solicitation D15PS00030 13 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.

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

B6.36 Reserved.

B6.37 Helicopter to be equipped for cargo letdown activities as follows:

B6.37.1 Storage area for cargo adjacent to cargo letdown door(s.)

B6.37.2 Sliding or hinged doors which can be opened while in flight. Door locks shall be provided to ensure that the door remains in closed and open positions. Doors may also be removed from the helicopter to meet these requirements provided the aircraft manual authorized such removal. AS- 350B3 series aircraft must be equipped with dual aft sliding doors.

B6.37.3 Windows must be available for the spotter to view the surrounding area without the necessity of opening doors.

B6.37.4 A Supplemental Type Certificate (STC’d) overhead or floor mounted rappelling fixture appropriate to the make and model offered. This anchor shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for continued airworthiness or the rappel anchor inspections listed in Chapter 3 of the Interagency Helicopter Rappel Guide.

B6.37.5 Friction mitigation must be provided for the steps and/or skids to minimize abrasion of the letdown line.

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 43.13-1B Chapter 11, "Aircraft Electrical Systems," and Chapter 12, "Aircraft Avionics Systems”; AC 43.13-2B 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 per the ELT manufacturer’s instructions 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

Solicitation D15PS00030 14 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 appro-priate wiring from the audio control system, terminated in an ITT/Cannon type MS3112E12-10S 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 150-174 MHz band, with associated RG-58A/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 CI-177 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.

Solicitation D15PS00030 15

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

Solicitation D15PS00030 16 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 5060-2, military dynamic type M-87/AIC with type CE-100 TR preamplifier, or equivalent) with U-174/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.