Performance Work Statement 2026.10.15.pdf

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

(PWS)

AIRBORNE AND SPECIAL OPERATIONS TEST

DIRECTORATE (ABNSOTD)

BLADE HOUR FLIGHT SUPPORT (2026–2032)

PART 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1. SCOPE OF WORK

The Contractor shall provide all personnel, aircraft, equipment, tools, materials, maintenance supervision, and other items and services necessary to perform flight services to conduct military static line (SL) or military freefall (MFF) parachute operations as defined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS), except as specified in Section 2 as Government-furnished property and services, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The Contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract. This service shall be performed at Fort Bragg North Carolina and surrounding airfields.

The planned Period of Performance is 01 December 2026 through 30 November 2031( including 52217-8 Option to Extend Services) 30 May 2032.

1.2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

These training operations are in support of the United States Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD) after a determination that the United States Air Force (USAF) is not available to conduct the specific flight mission or training requirement. The ABNSOTD plans, executes, and reports results for test and evaluation programs of airborne systems, aircraft capabilities, airdrop rigging kits and procedures, and equipment and procedures developed for use by conventional and Special Operations Forces. It conducts all special operations-related testing for the Directorate and administers the Military Free-Fall Parachute Program for the Directorate.

1.3. PERSONNEL

1.3.1. Project Manager

The Contractor shall provide a Project Manager (PM) who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. Within ten (10) days after contract award, the Contractor shall provide in writing to the Contracting Officer (KO) and Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) the name and telephone number of the Project Manager and an alternate who can act as representative and who will be responsible for overall coordination and/or implementation of services.

1.3.1.1. The Project Manager or alternate shall be available to coordinate aircraft scheduling during normal duty hours (7:30 AM through 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday). After normal duty hours, the Project Manager or alternate shall provide a telephone number for notification of schedule changes. The Contractor shall provide a telephone number for the Project Manager and alternate during duty and non-duty hours within ten (10) days after contract award.

1.3.2. Contractor Personnel Requirements

1.3.2.1. Contractor personnel must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.

1.3.2.1.1. The Government has the right to restrict access to Fort Bragg, NC, of any Contractor employee, or prospective Contractor employee, who is identified as a potential threat to the health, safety, security, general well-being, or operational mission of the installation and its population. Vehicle inspections will be conducted, and vehicle registration, driver's licenses, proof of insurance, and photo identification must be verified prior to issuing a post pass for non-sensitive areas. Daily gate passes shall be issued by the Government after verification of proper identification.

1.3.2.1.2. When Contractor aircraft are utilized, the Contractor shall provide pilots who are fully rested and physically and mentally capable of performing duties under this contract in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Parts 91.

1.3.2.2. Appearance and Performance: It is essential that all Contractor personnel meet the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity. Contractor personnel shall not perform work under the influence of alcohol, illegal or unauthorized prescribed drugs, or any other incapacitating agents. Contractor personnel shall be neatly groomed and dressed in professionally appropriate attire for pilots to present a professional appearance. Contractor personnel shall be easily recognized, which may be accomplished by wearing distinctive clothing bearing the company's name.

1.3.2.3. Standards of Conduct: Contractor personnel conduct shall not reflect discredit upon the Government. The Contractor shall ensure all personnel present a professional appearance while working on the Government installation. Contractor employees shall observe and comply with all local policies and procedures concerning fire, safety, environmental protection, sanitation, security, and possession of firearms or other lethal or illegal weapons or substances. The Contractor shall ensure all employees conduct themselves and perform services in a professional, safe, and responsible manner. The Contractor shall remove from the job site any employee for reasons of misconduct or security. The Contractor shall ensure employee conduct complies with 41 U.S.C. §§ 2101–2107 (Procurement Integrity). The Contractor shall ensure that no Contractor employees conduct political-related activities or events on the installation.

1.3.2.4. The Contractor shall maintain a professional and courteous disposition when communicating with all internal and external customers.

1.3.2.5. The Contractor shall ensure that pilots, co-pilots, and maintenance personnel are qualified and possess current, valid professional certifications/licenses before starting work. The crew shall provide copies of all relevant certifications/licenses to the COR within ten (10) days after contract award, to include:

1.3.2.5.1. Pilot Qualifications. The contractor shall provide a pilot in command who holds a current FAA commercial pilot certificate; the appropriate category, class, and type rating, if applicable, for the aircraft furnished; and a current FAA second-class medical certificate. The pilot in command shall meet all applicable FAA flight-review, recent-experience, instrument-currency, and aircraft-endorsement requirements.

1.3.2.5.2. Jump-Operations Qualification. Before conducting operations, each pilot in command shall complete and maintain documented initial and recurrent training appropriate to the furnished aircraft and parachute-training mission. Training shall address aircraft configuration, approved jump-door and restraint procedures, weight and balance during jumper movement and exit, low-speed/jump-run operations, emergency procedures, drop-zone/airspace procedures, and high-altitude oxygen procedures, as applicable.

1.3.2.5.3. Operating Authority. The contractor shall conduct each flight under the applicable FAA operating authority and shall maintain all FAA certificates, operations specifications, authorizations, approvals, notices, and records required for the actual mission profile. When Part 135 applies, the contractor shall hold the required operating certificate and operations specifications and provide flightcrew qualified under Part 135.

1.3.2.5.4. Maintenance Personnel. The contractor shall ensure that maintenance, preventive maintenance, inspections, alterations, and approvals for return to service are performed only by persons or organizations authorized under 14 CFR Parts 43, 65, 91, 135, and 145, as applicable to the work and operating authority. Personnel performing maintenance shall hold the A&P FAA ratings, authorizations, current experience, training, and aircraft-specific competence required for the assigned work.

1.3.2.5.5. The Contractor shall ensure that all certifications required for Contractor personnel remain current during the term of the contract. Certification/recertification shall be at no cost to the Government.

1.3.2.6. The Contractor shall ensure that there are sufficient, qualified personnel to properly perform this contract and shall ensure that pilots are FAA current and qualified to perform these types of operations.

1.3.2.7. The Contractor's employees shall be fully trained and licensed as FAA pilots to perform under this contract. The Contractor must maintain records of all training received. No Government training shall be provided.

1.3.2.8. The Contractor shall not employ any person who is an employee of the United States Government if the employment of that person would create a conflict of interest, nor shall the Contractor employ any person who is an employee of the Department of the Army, either military or civilian, unless such person seeks and receives approval in accordance with Joint Ethics Regulation (JER) DoD 5500.07-R.

1.3.2.9. Aircrew are required to attend all test officer briefings, which are routinely scheduled 1 to 2 hours prior to loading the aircraft. The aircrew must provide a planeside safety briefing to jumpers or test participants prior to each mission. The aircrew is required to perform face-to-face coordination with the aircrew of the photo chase aircraft prior to loading when photo chase is utilized.

1.4. PHYSICAL SECURITY

The Contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding all Government property provided for Contractor use. At the close of each work period, Government facilities, equipment, and materials shall be secured.

1.4.1. Protection

I WATCH Training: The Contractor and all associated subcontractors shall brief all employees on the local "I WATCH" program (training standards provided by the requiring activity Antiterrorism Officer). "I WATCH" training will be used to inform employees of the types of behavior to watch for and instruct them to report suspicious activity to appropriate personnel. The Government will provide the "I WATCH" training package to the Contractor for execution. Training shall be completed within thirty

(30) calendar days of contract award and prior to commencing work. Results shall be reported to the COR prior to performance.

Access and General Protection/Security Policy and Procedures: The Contractor shall be responsible for meeting each of the access and general protection security policies and procedures. The COR and Security Manager (910-396-8943) will assist when requested.

Disclosure of Information: The Contractor shall direct to the COR all inquiries, comments, or complaints arising from matters observed, experienced, or learned as a result of, or in connection with, the performance of the contract, the resolution of which may require the dissemination of official information.

Safety: The Contractor and subcontractors shall provide a safe and healthful work environment for their employees as prescribed in FAR 52.236-13, 29 CFR Part 1910, pertinent provisions of AR 385-10, and local regulations, policies, and SOPs. They shall safeguard public and Government personnel, property, and equipment, and avoid interruption of Government operations. The Contractor shall report accidents or losses to the KO as specified in relevant regulations. Whenever the Contractor becomes aware of serious or imminent danger to Government, civilian, or Contractor personnel, the Contractor shall take immediate corrective action.

1.5. QUALITY CONTROL

1.5.1. The Contractor shall establish and maintain a complete Quality Control Plan (QCP) to ensure the requirements of the contract are provided as specified. One copy of the QCP shall be provided to the KO not later than thirty (30) days after contract award. Updated copies must be provided as changes occur.

1.5.2. The plan shall include:

1.5.2.1. Methods for identifying and preventing defects in quality or safety before performance levels become unacceptable, addressing processes for corrective action without depending on Government direction.

1.5.2.2. An inspection and safety system covering all services required by the contract. This plan shall specify areas to be inspected on a scheduled or unscheduled basis, frequency, and the title and organizational placement of inspectors.

1.5.2.3. A description of the records kept to document inspections and corrective/preventive actions. Inspection records shall be maintained and made available to the Government throughout the contract performance period and until final settlement of any claims.

1.5.2.4. Corrective Actions: If the KO determines that the QCP is not yielding results conforming to contract requirements, the Contractor shall take immediate action to correct the deficiency (e.g., replacement of personnel, additional inspections, etc.).

1.5.2.4.1. The COR or designated representative shall inspect the aircraft and equipment and, upon detection of any defect pursuant to FAA/FCC standards, shall request the Contractor to immediately repair or replace the asset at no cost to the Government. The Government does not assume, and specifically disavows, any duty to inspect equipment to assure safe operation. The Contractor remains solely responsible at all tiers for assuring equipment is in safe, serviceable condition.

1.6. QUALITY ASSURANCE

1.6.1. The Government will evaluate the Contractor's performance under this contract. All surveillance observations will be recorded by the Government in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) and the Performance Requirements Summary (PRS). When an observation indicates defective performance, the COR will request the Contract Manager to initial the observation.

1.6.2. Performance Evaluation Meetings: Meetings will be held as often as necessary as determined by the Contracting Officer. However, a meeting will be held whenever a Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR) is issued if requested by the Contractor. Minutes of these meetings shall be signed by the Contractor's manager, the KO, and the COR. Should the Contractor not concur with the minutes, they shall submit written non-concurrence to the KO within one (1) day of receipt of the signed minutes.

1.7. HOURS OF OPERATION

Normal Hours: The Contractor shall provide aircraft and related personnel to support testing during both day and night operations. The Contractor shall provide pilots qualified for night operations when requested to support tests. The Contractor shall reserve the aircraft for ABNSOTD given a 60-day request by the COR, or a lesser time period if agreed upon by both the COR and the Contractor.

PART 2: GOVERNMENT FURNISHED REAL PROPERTY AND

SERVICES

2.1. REAL PROPERTY

2.1.1. Facilities

The Government will furnish and/or make available facilities when the aircraft is operating from Pope Army Airfield (Yellow Ramp), North Carolina or other government owned or operated airfields.

2.1.1.1. The Government will provide outside tie-down parking space for the aircraft.

2.1.2. Equipment

All Government-furnished facilities and property will be provided in accordance with FAR Part 45, AR 710-2, AR 735-5, and DA PAM 710-2.

2.1.2.1. Power: Ground generators will not be provided, but coordination can be made with Pope Airfield to obtain an external power generator if one is required.

2.1.2.2. Equipment Inventory: N/A.

2.1.2.3. Equipment Accounting: N/A.

2.1.2.4. Obtaining Additional or Replacement Equipment: N/A.

2.1.2.5. Annual Government Property and Facilities Report: N/A.

2.2. SERVICES

2.2.1. Utilities: The Government will provide all utilities in the buildings furnished by the Government.

2.2.2. Equipment Maintenance: Contractor aircraft maintenance requirements are detailed in Section 3 and Section 4.

2.2.3. Military Police and Fire Protection: Phone Number 9-1-1.

2.2.4. Emergency Medical Treatment: Medical services for Contractor personnel are the responsibility of the Contractor. However, the Government will provide, on an emergency basis, medical services for job-related injuries while an employee is performing under this contract.

Limited emergency medical care is available at Womack Army Medical Center. For emergency ambulance service, call 9-1-1. Emergency care will be limited to services necessary to prevent undue suffering or loss of life and will be provided only during the emergency period, after which the employee will be transferred to a civilian provider. The Contractor shall reimburse the Government for emergency medical services upon receipt of an invoice from Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, NC, at rates specified in accordance with Health Services Command guidelines. If unpaid, costs may be offset by the KO against future payments.

PART 3: GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY OR

EQUIPMENT

3.1. GFP ASSIGNMENT

There is no Government Furnished Property (GFP) assigned to these services.

3.2. TEMPORARY INSTRUMENTATION INSTALLATION

The Government will not provide equipment under this contract; however, the Government will temporarily install cameras, electronic data recorders, other instrumentation, and Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) (e.g., 𝑂2 consoles) aboard the aircraft. The Contractor shall allow the temporary installation of this equipment, and the Government will remove the instrumentation immediately upon completion of each mission. Government personnel will accompany and operate this equipment during flight.

PART 4: CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

4.1. GENERAL

The Contractor shall furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities, and services required to perform work under this contract that are not listed under Section 2 or Section 3 of this PWS.

Operations Security (OPSEC) Training: All Contractor and subcontractor employees shall complete all training identified on the AT/OPSEC/IA Coversheet. Training shall be completed within thirty (30) calendar days after contract award. The Contractor shall submit certificates of completion to the COR within five (5) calendar days of training completion.

4.2. Insurance

The Contractor shall, at its own expense, procure and maintain in full force and effect during the performance of this contract the following minimum insurance coverages:

a. Aviation Liability Insurance (Aircraft Public Liability and Passenger Liability) in an amount of not less than $10,000,000 Combined Single Limit (CSL) per occurrence. This coverage shall include bodily injury, property damage, and passenger liability.

b. Hull Insurance in an amount equal to the full insured value of the aircraft.

c. All other insurance required by FAR Part 28 and the contract clauses.

The United States of America shall be named as an Additional Insured on the Aviation Liability policy with respect to work performed under this contract. The Contractor shall furnish the Contracting Officer with certificates of insurance evidencing the required coverage prior to commencement of performance and upon request thereafter. All policies shall contain a waiver of subrogation in favor of the United States Government.

Note: The minimum limits stated above represent common values used in many DoD aviation support contracts. The Government reserves the right to require higher limits based upon the specific mission, aircraft type, number of passengers, and risk assessment. The Contracting Officer, in coordination with the Government Flight Representative (GFR), will make the final determination of acceptable coverage and limits.

4.3 AIRCRAFT SPECIFICATIONS

4.3.1. Ramp Exit Aircraft

The Contractor shall provide a CASA 212 or equivalent aircraft (defined as capable of exit from the rear ramp of the aircraft) capable of take-off and landing on/from a dirt runway a minimum of 1,400 feet long.

Configurations: Must support an Allowable Cabin Load (ACL) configured with a minimum of fifteen

(15) seats with 24-inch spacing to accommodate 15 combat-equipped paratroopers with extended seatbelts, or at least twenty (20) seats with 24-inch spacing to accommodate 20 combat equipped static line jumpers.

Static Line Cable: Must feature a linear anchor line cable running the length of the aircraft to support 20 static line jumpers exiting from the ramp.

Altitude & Performance: Must sustain altitudes of 12,500 to 15,000 feet above ground level (AGL) with a crew/cabin oxygen-equipped setup, and be capable of obtaining a freefall altitude of 24,999 feet mean sea level (MSL). Must complete three (3) high-altitude (12,500–15,000 feet AGL) lifts before refueling.

Communications & Drop Systems: Must communicate via FM with the departed airfield and the Drop Zone Safety Officer (DZSO). Must have a rear-opening ramp supporting military freefall, static line, and cargo airdrop operations.

Cargo Airdrop: Must support static line cargo airdrop operations with a total cargo load up to 6,000 pounds, arriving equipped with an internal roller system for cargo movement. Must drop a minimum of two (2) bundles per lift from altitudes as low as 100 feet AGL (bundles up to 500 lbs each). The ramp opening must be a minimum of sixty-five (65) inches wide.

Briefing & Instrumentation: Must provide intercom capabilities between aircrew and jumpmasters, red/green jump lights in the cargo compartment, and accept temporary attachment of internal camera instrumentation to the fuselage.

4.3.3. Airworthiness Regulations

The Contractor shall operate and maintain all aircraft under the FAA-approved maintenance requirements defined under Federal Aviation Regulations Part 91, and in accordance with the manufacturer's approved maintenance plan and procedures throughout the period of performance of this contract.

4.3.4. Aviation Compliance

The Contractor shall provide DoD-approved commercial operators, including aircraft certifications and licenses in accordance with Enclosure 6 of DoD Instruction 4500.53 (DoD Commercial Air Transportation Quality and Safety Review Program). The DoD-approved commercial operator must appear on the current AMC Commercial Airlift Review Board (CARB) "Paratroop Commercial Operator Listing" for the duration of the contract period and be inspected and approved by USSOCOM J-31. Services shall comply with DoDI 4500.53cas. The Government may consider and award to non-CARB carriers if they are covered by a current inspection per DoDI 4500.53 Section 5, Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3.

4.3.5. Maintenance Records

The Contractor shall maintain all on-site and off-site records of all maintenance, inspection, and repair conducted, along with necessary corrective actions taken. The Contractor shall make these records available to the Government immediately in the event of any accident or incident related to airdrop missions throughout the term of the contract.

4.3.6. Aircraft Maintenance Tasks

The Contractor shall perform both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance. Maintenance may occur on US Military installations only with prior coordination and the express permission of the

Government. The Contractor shall provide all parts, tools, equipment, labor, and expertise necessary to complete maintenance tasks.

Aerospace Ground Equipment (AGE): The Contractor shall provide or obtain all AGE required for operations.

Coordination: Maintenance downtime must be coordinated with the COR. The Contractor shall provide a timetable for scheduled maintenance and an estimated completion time for unscheduled maintenance. Preventive maintenance schedules shall conform to manufacturer-recommended servicing intervals.

Maintenance Programs: All maintenance shall comply with the carrier's FAA-approved Continuous Airworthiness Maintenance Program (CAMP) authorizing the use of a Time Control Document (TCD), Required Inspection Items (RII), Continuing Analysis and Surveillance System (CASS), Maintenance Inspection Program (MIP), and Minimum Equipment List (MEL).

Recovery Capability: The Contractor shall have access to maintenance facilities and/or the capability to repair an aircraft within twenty-four (24) hours of a maintenance occurrence.

PART 5: SPECIFIED TASKS

5. SPECIFIED TASKS. The Contractor shall provide all personnel, services, supplies, supervision, tools, equipment, and other necessary items to provide airborne flight support for training support to ABNSOTD and Operational Test Support in accordance with the specifications and performance metrics of this PWS.

5.1. Flight Operations

Objective: The Contractor shall conduct military static line (SL) and military freefall (MFF) flight operations from [REVISED] Fort Bragg, Pope AAF, and other locations as specified in technical exhibit one.

Standard: Aircraft and qualified crew shall be present, fueled, and fully prepared for operations at the COR-designated time and location. All flight and drop operations shall strictly adhere to FAA regulations, DoD commercial aviation policies, and applicable airborne safety manuals.

AQL: 95% of scheduled flights shall depart within +/- 15 minutes of the scheduled takeoff time, excluding weather or Air Traffic Control (ATC) delays.

5.1.1. Reservations, Cancellations, and Rescheduling

Objective: The Contractor shall accept reservations, process Government-initiated cancellations, and manage rescheduling due to Contractor-caused service interruptions.

Standard:

1. The Contractor shall accept and confirm mission reservations received sixty (60) calendar days or more prior to the scheduled mission.

2. The Contractor shall process Government-initiated cancellations made seventy-two (72) hours or more prior to the scheduled mission with zero ($0) penalties or cancellation fees.

3. The Contractor shall reschedule, at no additional cost to the Government, any missions canceled due to Contractor issues (e.g., un-forecasted maintenance, crew availability, or Contractor-side delays).

AQL: 100% compliance with reservation, cancellation, and zero-fee rescheduling timelines.

Zero cost-reimbursements or administrative fees shall be charged to the Government for missions rescheduled due to Contractor-caused service interruptions.

5.1.1.2 & 5.1.1.3. Weather and DZ Wind Rescheduling

Objective: The Contractor shall monitor weather conditions affecting operations and apply wind speed safety limits on the drop zone (DZ).

Standard:

1. The Contractor shall provide immediate notice to the COR as soon as possible if flight services cannot be provided or will be delayed due to weather-related issues.

2. The Contractor shall comply with military DZ wind safety limits (17 knots for MFF, 12 knots for SL) and visual minimums.

3. If DZ weather or visibility minimums are officially called by the Government within four

(4) hours of the scheduled Takeoff Time (TOT), the Contractor shall charge exactly a one-half (1/2) Blade Hour weather cancellation fee.

4. The Contractor may charge blade hour penalties when the Government cancels mission for weather or safety minimums.

a. 0-24 hours, one (1) hour penalty

b. 24+ hour notice no penalty

5. The Contractor shall reschedule missions minus the hourly penalties when funds are sufficient to meet the three (3) hour minimum task order.

AQL: 100% compliance with immediate COR notification timelines, DZ wind safety thresholds, and accurate billing of the 1/2 Blade Hour weather cancellation fee.

5.1.3. Aircraft Pre-Positioning

Objective: The Contractor shall pre-position flight assets to support pre-mission administrative and technical preparation.

Standard: The Contractor shall position the flight-ready aircraft at the designated airfield ramp one to two (1-2) hour prior to the scheduled mission time to allow for aircrew attendance at the test officer briefing, planeside safety briefings, and Government installation of camera/instrumentation equipment.

AQL: � 95% of scheduled missions have aircraft pre-positioned on the ramp at least 60 minutes prior to takeoff.

5.1.3.1 & 5.1.3.1.1. Airfield Agreements and Clearances

Objective: The Contractor shall maintain current civil-military agreements and secure all necessary airfield landing and overflight authorizations.

Standard: The Contractor shall submit and maintain current DD Form 2400 (Certificate of Insurance), DD Form 2401 (Landing Permit), and DD Form 2402 (Hold Harmless Agreement).

The Contractor shall obtain explicit landing and overflight clearances from the appropriate airfield authorities (AMCC, Base Ops, or Range Control) in accordance with Technical Exhibit 1 (Site Locations) prior to attempting flight operations.

AQL: 100% compliance. Zero (0) unauthorized runway landings or military airspace entries.

5.1.5. Pre-Flight Safety Inspections and Maintenance

Objective: The Contractor shall execute pre-flight safety inspections and maintain aircraft airworthiness to guarantee safety of flight.

Standard: The Contractor shall inspect and clear all aircraft prior to every mission in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Parts 91, AR 385-10, and manufacturer instructions. All aircraft maintenance shall be executed by FAA-licensed mechanics, and all defects must be fully resolved prior to taxi.

AQL: 100% airworthiness compliance. Zero (0) flights conducted with open, safety-critical FAA maintenance write-ups.

5.1.6. Flight Service Authorization and Coordination

Objective: The Contractor shall execute flight missions only under the authority of valid task orders and maintain responsive operational communication with the COR.

Standard:

1. The Contractor shall perform flight services only subsequent to the issuance of a written, signed delivery task order from the Contracting Officer.

2. The Contractor shall provide verbal telephone confirmation to all COR-authorized email coordination requests within one (1) business hour of receipt.

AQL: 100% task order authorization compliance. � 95% of COR email requests receive verbal confirmation within one (1) business day.

5.1.7. Towed Parachutist Retrieval System

Objective: The Contractor shall equip and maintain static line flight safety retrieval hardware.

Standard: The Contractor shall equip all aircraft assigned to static line missions with a fully functional, FAA-approved towed-parachutist retrieval system. This system must be fully installed, operational, and maintained at zero cost or modification to the Government.

AQL: 100% retrieval system availability during all static line operations. Zero (0) operational flights conducted for static line operations without a certified, fully operational retrieval system onboard.

5.1.8. Malfunction and Incident Investigation

Objective: The Contractor shall perform emergency reporting and investigation support subsequent to an airborne drop incident or malfunction.

Standard: In the event of an airborne drop incident or malfunction, the Contractor shall fully execute all notification, logging, safety reporting, and investigation support tasks defined in Technical Exhibit 3.

AQL: 100% compliance with TE 3 safety procedures, reporting timelines, and agency coordination formats.

PART 6: APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS

6.1. RELEVANT PUBLICATIONS AND MANUALS

The Contractor shall abide by all applicable regulations, publications, manuals, and local policies and procedures. The following publications are mandatory. Contractor shall comply with the current versions of required publications including all amendments effective during contract performance.

Document ID Title Date

ATP 3-18.11 Special Forces Military Free-Fall Operations 24 October 2014

AR 350-1 Army Training and Leader Development 10 December 2017

AR 385-10 The Army Safety Program 24 February 2017

DCMA INST 8210.1D

Contractor’s Flight and Ground Operations 6 February 2023

TOPM 73–45 Test Parachutist Certification Program September 2021

USASOC REG 350-2 Airborne Operations USASOC Training Program 19 October 2018

USSOCOM MANUAL 350-3 Special Operations Forces Baseline Interoperable Airborne Operations (Parachuting) Training Standards

13 December 2019

USA004754-11 DoD Guidebook to Contract Administration 28 July 2011

14 C.F.R. Part 91 General Operating and Flight Rules September 29, 2026

14 C.F.R. Part 135 Operating Requirements: Commuter and On Demand Operations and Rules Governing Persons On Board Such Aircraft

September 29, 2026

Title 14, C.F. R. Part 105 Parachute Operations September 29, 2026

PART 7: ATTACHMENTS AND TECHNICAL EXHIBITS

Attachment 1: Deliverables Schedule

Attachment 2: Estimated Workload Data

Technical Exhibit 1: Site Locations and Airfield Authorizations

Technical Exhibit 2: Performance Requirements Summary

Technical Exhibit 3: USAF Standing Operating Procedure (Airborne Malfunctions, Incidents, and Protocols)

ATTACHMENT 1: DELIVERABLES SCHEDULE

This list is not inclusive of ALL deliverables required per the contract. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to review all contract documents to ensure all deliverables are met.

Deliverable Frequency # of Copies

Medium/

Format

Submit To

Pilot Licenses & Certifications

With proposal, annually, or upon renewal.

1 Secure PDF COR: Mr. Daniel Crawford (daniel.d.crawford3.civ@army.mil) or Alt COR: Mr. Mark Evans (mark.a.evans9.civ@army.mil)

USATRANSCOM

CARB /

USSOCOM

Inspection Results

With proposal and upon renewal of inspection results.

1 Secure PDF COR: Mr. Daniel Crawford (daniel.d.crawford3.civ@army.mil) or Alt COR: Mr. Mark Evans (mark.a.evans9.civ@army.mil)

Quality Control Plan (QCP)

Within 30 days after contract award.

1 Secure PDF / Document

Contracting Officer (KO) and

COR

Contractor Manpower Reporting (SCR)

Annually by October 31.

1 Web-form at https://www.sam.gov

Direct Portal Entry (System for Award Management)

AT/OPSEC/IA

Training Certificates

Within 35 days after contract award.

1 per employee

Secure PDF COR: Mr. Daniel Crawford (daniel.d.crawford3.civ@army.mil)

ATTACHMENT 2: ESTIMATED WORKLOAD DATA

Labor Category Estimated Hours / Year

Project Manager / Business Manager (scheduling and billing)

Pilot(s) 30

Mechanic(s) 15

Total Hours 75

TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 1

SITE LOCATIONS AND AIRFIELD AUTHORIZATIONS

To comply with PWS Sections 5.1.3.1 and 5.1.3.1.1, the Contractor must secure explicit landing and overflight authorizations from the following site-specific authorities prior to attempting flights:

Installation / Operating Location

Site Specific Controlling Authority

Primary Contact Information / Office

Required Action

Pope Army Airfield

Air Mobility Control Center (AMCC) / Base Operations

Bldg 305, Pope

AAF, NC

Phone: 910-394-

Obtain civil landing permit (DD Form 2401) and coordinate ramp spot.

Simmons Army Airfield

Simmons Base Operations

Bldg 3-1607, Fort Bragg, NC Phone: 910-396-

Coordinate flight plan and secure landing clearance.

Camp Camp Mackall Airfield

Camp MacKall Base Operations

Camp MacKall, NC

Phone: 910-396-

Coordinate tactical landing or overflight.

Fort Bragg Training Areas & Drop Zones

Range Control Bldg 4-2530, Fort Bragg, NC Phone: 910-396-

Secure authorization letter for non- Government aircraft overflight/landing.

TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 2

PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY

(PRS)

ABNSOTD BLADE HOUR FLIGHT SUPPORT (2026–2032)

This Performance Requirements Summary (PRS) lists the contract tasks deemed critical to mission success. It defines the performance standards, the Acceptable Quality Levels (AQLs), the methods of Government surveillance, and the positive or negative incentives/disincentives associated with the Contractor's performance.

All surveillance results will be documented in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) and Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 46.

PWS Task Reference

Required Service (Objective)

Performance Standard Acceptable Quality Level

(AQL)

PWS 5.1 Flight Operations Conduct military static line (SL) and military freefall (MFF) flight operations from Fort Bragg, Pope AAF, and other locations as specified by delivery task orders.

Aircraft and qualified crew shall be present, fueled, and fully prepared for operations at the COR-designated time and location. All flight/drop operations shall strictly adhere to FAA regulations, DoD commercial aviation policies, and applicable airborne safety manuals.

95% of scheduled flights shall depart within +/- 15 minutes of the scheduled takeoff time, excluding weather or Air Traffic Control (ATC) delays.

PWS 5.1.1

Reservations, Cancellations, and Rescheduling

Accept and confirm mission reservations received sixty (60) calendar days or more prior to the scheduled mission.

Process Government-initiated cancellations made seventy-two (72) hours or more prior to the scheduled mission with zero ($0) penalties or cancellation fees.

Reschedule, at no additional cost to the Government, any missions canceled due to Contractor issues (e.g., un-forecasted maintenance, 100% compliance with reservation, cancellation, and zero-fee rescheduling timelines. Zero cost-reimbursements or administrative fees shall be charged to the Government for missions rescheduled due to Contractor-caused service interruptions.

crew availability, or Contractor-side delays).

PWS

5.1.1.2 & 5.1.1.3

Weather and DZ Wind Rescheduling

Provide immediate notice to the COR as soon as possible if flight services cannot be provided or will be delayed due to weather-related issues.

Comply with military DZ wind safety limits (17 knots for MFF, 12 knots for SL) and visual minimums.

100% compliance with immediate COR notification timelines, DZ wind safety thresholds.

Required Service (Objective)

Performance Standard Acceptable Quality Level

(AQL)

PWS 5.1.3 Aircraft Pre- Positioning

Position the flight-ready aircraft at the designated airfield ramp exactly one (1) hour prior to the scheduled mission time to allow for aircrew attendance at the test officer briefing, planeside safety briefings, and Government installation of camera/instrumentation equipment.

� 95% of scheduled missions have aircraft pre-positioned on the ramp at least 60 minutes prior to takeoff.

PWS

5.1.3.1 & 5.1.3.1.1

Airfield Agreements and Clearances

Submit and maintain current DD Form 2400 (Certificate of Insurance), DD Form 2401 (Landing Permit), and DD Form 2402 (Hold Harmless Agreement). Obtain explicit landing and overflight clearances from the appropriate airfield authorities (AMCC, Base Ops, or Range Control) in accordance with Technical Exhibit 1 (Site Locations) prior to attempting flight operations.

100% compliance. Zero (0) unauthorized runway landings or military airspace entries.

PWS 5.1.5 Pre-Flight Safety Inspections and Maintenance

Inspect and clear all aircraft prior to every mission in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Parts 91, AR 385-10, and manufacturer instructions. All aircraft maintenance shall be executed by FAA-licensed mechanics, and all defects must be fully resolved prior to taxi.

100% airworthiness compliance. Zero (0) flights conducted with open, safety-critical FAA maintenance write-ups.

PWS 5.1.6 Flight Service Authorization and Coordination

Perform flight services only subsequent to the issuance of a written, signed delivery task order from the Contracting Officer.

Provide verbal telephone confirmation to all COR-authorized email coordination requests within one (1) business hour of receipt.

100% task order authorization compliance.

�95% of COR email requests receive verbal confirmation within one (1) business hour.

Required Service (Objective)

Performance Standard Acceptable Quality Level

(AQL)

PWS 5.1.7 Towed Parachutist Retrieval System

Equip all aircraft assigned to static line missions with a fully functional, FAA-approved towed-parachutist retrieval system. This system must be fully installed, operational, and maintained at zero cost or modification to the Government.

100% retrieval system availability during all static line operations. Zero (0) operational flights conducted for static line operations without a certified, fully operational retrieval system onboard.

PWS 5.1.8 Malfunction and Incident Investigation

In the event of an airborne drop incident or malfunction, fully execute all notification, logging, safety reporting, and investigation support tasks defined in TE 3.

100% compliance with TE 3 safety procedures, reporting timelines, and agency coordination formats.

TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 3

AIRDROP MALFUNCTION, INCIDENCTS, AND

PROTOCOLS

SECTION 1: DEFINITIONS AND STANDARDS

1.1 Airdrop Malfunction

An "Airdrop Malfunction" shall mean any failure of an airdrop item, component, or integrated system to function in accordance with its intended design, technical specifications, or operational parameters. This definition applies irrespective of whether such failure arises from human error, mechanical defect, or the execution of emergency procedures. For contractual purposes, an Airdrop Malfunction includes, but is not limited to, the complete or partial failure of:

The primary or auxiliary aircraft airdrop systems.

Any individual component of airdrop equipment (including parachutes, static lines, and deployment mechanisms).

Personnel or cargo rigging systems to deploy or operate as designed, regardless of the post-impact condition of the load.

Any event resulting in serious bodily injury or fatality to crewmembers, parachutists, or ground personnel.

Any structural or equipment damage sustained by the aircraft during or as a direct result of the drop sequence.

Any damage to the airdrop load, cargo, or associated rigging equipment.

1.2 Airdrop Incident

An "Airdrop Incident" shall mean any procedural deviation, equipment anomaly, or environmental occurrence that prevents or disrupts the successful completion of a planned airdrop operation, without independently rising to the level of a Malfunction. Incidents include, but are not limited to:

Towed parachutists, whether resolved via cutaway or retrieval procedures.

Dual deployment of parachutes (simultaneous deployment of both main and reserve systems).

Parachute entanglements.

Unintentional or premature reserve parachute deployment.

Inadvertent actuation of any Automatic Activation Device (AAD) or mechanical release (e.g., inadvertent MB-1 actuation).

SECTION 2: MANDATORY AIRCREW ACTIONS AND MANDATE TO HOLD

2.1 Immediate Operational Response

Upon detection or reasonable suspicion of an Airdrop Malfunction, Airdrop Incident, or Off-Drop Zone (Off-DZ) Drop, the pilot-in-command and flight crew shall immediately execute the following mandatory protocols:

1. Execute Emergency Procedures: Initiate immediate action and malfunction procedures in strict compliance with the specific mission aircraft technical aircraft operation manuals.

2. Ground Control Notification: Immediately advise Drop Zone (DZ) Control or Range Control of the aircraft’s operational status and immediate intentions.

3. Data Recording: Log the precise coordinates and geographical position of the platform, bundle, or paratrooper exit, or the point of drogue/parachute release or cutaway, if such point varies from the planned Computed Air Release Point (CARP) or "Green Light" coordinates.

4. Isolation of Assets: Promptly notify DZ/Range Control to ensure the dropped load or paratrooper can be located, geographically isolated, and secured for formal inspection.

2.2 Command and Control (C2) Communications

As soon as practical following the event, the aircrew shall contact the Pope Command Post or the nearest applicable Command and Control (C2) agency to relay the following evidentiary data:

Aircraft call sign.

Exact drop time and targeted Drop Zone.

Type of load and specific delivery procedures utilized

A concise, factual description of the malfunction or incident.

An explicit directive for C2 to notify Tactics, Safety, and all utilizing units. (Pope Command Post shall assume responsibility for notifying Tactics [43 OSS/OSK], Airborne Special Operations Directorate [ABNSOD], and Unites States Army CID [Criminal Investigation Division].

2.3 Preservation of Evidence

Absent an imminent hazard to the life or safety of the crew or the structural integrity of the aircraft, the aircrew is strictly prohibited from taking any action that alters the post-event state of the aircraft or its systems. Prohibited actions include, but are not limited to:

De-rigging or altering any aircraft cargo or airdrop systems.

Reprogramming the mission computer and any other primary or secondary navigational aids to calculate the CARP/HARP

Taking any action that may hinder, obscure, or compromise a subsequent forensic analysis of the malfunction, incident, or off-DZ drop.

2.4 Mission Termination and Flight Suspension

1. Immediate Discontinuation: An aircraft experiencing a malfunction or incident shall immediately cease all further airdrop operations and return to Mackall AAF, Pope Army Airfield, or flight origin location as soon as safe flight operations permit.

2. Suspension of Flight Activities: The affected aircrew shall immediately terminate their mission and remain suspended from all further flying activities. The crew shall not attempt any subsequent airdrops for the remainder of the scheduled mission until formally cleared and authorized by the appropriate (INSERT APPROPRIATE NAME/IDENTIFIED FLYING AUTHORITY FOR CONTRACTED CASA COMPANY) and ABNSOD.

SECTION 3: INVESTIGATION REQUIREMENTS AND DOCUMENTATION

3.1 Data Provision Requirements

The involved aircrew and operating unit shall compile and deliver the following evidentiary package to the designated Malfunction/Incident Investigation Team:

1. All core communication metrics identified in Subsection 2.2 of this document.

2. The identity of all involved units, categorized by flying unit, supporting unit, and user/dropped unit.

3. The specific type, tail number, and aircraft involved, including the precise position of the incident aircraft within the flight pattern.

4. Comprehensive meteorological data at the time of the incident, including sky conditions, visibility, flight-altitude winds, and surface winds.

5. The run-in flight heading and the specific drop altitude measured in both Mean Sea Level (MSL) and Above Ground Level (AGL).

6. The total volume of jumpers or cargo platforms deployed, with an exact accounting of assets landing on-zone versus off-zone.

7. The final landing position and measured distance of any off-zone assets relative to the intended target (expressed via distance and clock-position, e.g., 600 yards at 6 o'clock).

8. A detailed accounting of any known personnel injuries, aircraft damage, load damage, or third-party collateral damage.

9. The names and verified telephone contact numbers for both the Airborne Mission Commander and the primary user Point of Contact (POC).

10. All mission-essential operational paperwork and logs.

3.2 Required Document Index

The evidentiary package must include original or certified copies of the following documents:

Aircrew Flight Authorization (Flight Orders).

Navigation Flight Plans (Form 70).

CARP Forms and calculations.

Drop Zone Imagery, mosaics, and maps.

Aircraft Load Plans.

DD Form 1801 (International Flight Plan) and associated weather planning briefs.

DD Form 1748-2 / DD Form 1748-X (Joint Airdrop Inspection Records).

AMC Form 97 (Airdrop Malfunction Report).

3.3 Initial Fact-Finding and Panel Adjudication

An authorized representative from the 43 OSS/OSK shall conduct the initial fact-finding investigation. All compiled data and findings will be forwarded to the 43 AMOG/CC, the owning (INSERT AVIATION COMPANY), ABNSOD and CID.