RFI--ATGS_1.docx

Request for Information (RFI) for the Procurement of Exclusive Use and On-Call Fixed Wing Air Attack Aviation Services

THIS IS A RFI ONLY. This RFI is issued solely for information and planning purposes, and it does not constitute a Request for Quote (RFQ) or Request for Proposal (RFP), or a promise to issue an RFQ / RFP. This RFI does not commit the Government to contract for any supply or service. No funds have been authorized, appropriated, or received for this contemplated effort. Furthermore, those who respond to this RFI should not anticipate any feedback with regards to this submission; other than acknowledgement of receipt, if a request for an acknowledgement is requested by the submitter. Responders are advised that the Government will not pay any costs incurred as a result of a response to this RFI. All costs associated with responding to this RFI will be solely at the responding party’s expense. Not responding to this RFI does not preclude participation in any future RFP or RFQ. If a solicitation is released, it will be via the Government Wide Point of Entry (GPE) at (http://www.sam.gov). It is the responsibility of the potential offerors to monitor the website for any information that may pertain to this RFI. All submissions become the property of the Federal Government and will not be returned. The information provided may be utilized by the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) in developing its acquisition strategy.

RFI PURPOSE: There are two purposes of this RFI. The first is to determine the number and types of Indian Economic Enterprises (IEEs) and small businesses, including Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise (ISBEE), Small Disadvantaged (SDB), Section 8(a), Woman-Owned (WOSB), Economically Disadvantaged Woman Owned (EDWOSB), Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone), Veteran Owned, and Service-Disabled Veteran Owned (SDVOSB) capable of meeting the Government’s requirements for the subject procurement. The second is to determine the number and types of other than small businesses who may be capable of meeting the Government’s requirements for the subject procurement.

REQUIREMENTS: The DOI, Interior Business Center (IBC), Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD), in support of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), seeks information from companies potentially interested in providing fully contractor operated and maintained Aerial Supervision aircraft for fire suppression and/or all-risk missions when ordered. Contractor must provide fully operational remote sensing equipment capable of intelligence data collection, fire detection, mapping, aerial supervision, and tactical ground support. Contractor will be required to perform these services seven days a week. The Government will provide the Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS). Missions include initial and extended attack fires, in support of nationwide interagency federal wildland fire and other emergency all-risk missions during all hazard incident operations.

Multiple awards are anticipated for the subject procurement. The aircraft awarded under these contracts must be capable of performing fire detection, mapping, aerial supervision and provide air-to-ground tactical support. It is important to note that these contracts will be part of the national response framework for the suppression of wildland fires and/or other emergency all-risk missions that may be dispatched at the direction of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). United States Forest Service (USFS) and other federal agencies as needed for locations throughout the Lower 48 States, and Alaska.

Please pay particular attention to the areas highlighted in the draft specifications below.

REQUESTED INFORMATION:

If your organization has the potential to provide the required aircraft with sensor and Airborne Remote Sensor Operator (ARSO) meeting the specifications that follow below, please provide the following information:

1) Company name, mailing address, DUNS number, and point of contact information

2) Email and web site address (if applicable)

3) Information necessary to demonstrate that the aircraft, ARSO, and sensor requirements meet the specifications in this RFI.

4) Business Size (NAICS 481211 – Nonscheduled Chartered Passenger Air Transportation)

5) Business Size and Type (e.g. SB, ISBEE, SDVOSB, etc.)

Any questions or feedback are greatly appreciated and encouraged. Questions or feedback concerning this request will only be accepted via email addressed to the Contracting Specialist, Shay Roadruck, at Shay_Roadruck@ibc.doi.gov.

Telephone inquiries will not be accepted or acknowledged, and no feedback or evaluations will be provided to companies regarding their submissions.

Submissions should be emailed directly to Shay_Roadruck@ibc.doi.gov by 1700 ET, on Thursday, 22 December 2022.

Air Attack Draft SOW Bureau: Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)

Designated Base Location: Item 1: Exclusive Use; Bemidji, MN; Double Eagle, NM; Ronan, MT (One aircraft) Item 2: Exclusive Use; Okmogee, OK; Show Low, AZ; Omak, WA (One aircraft) Item 3: On-call; other various throughout the United States (May be multiple awards)

Aircraft Required: Multi or single engine Turbine, pressurized land airplane, equipped as specified in Section B for Type 1 Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) including sensors for detecting and mapping wildland fires.

Crew Complement Required: Pilot-in-Command (PIC) and Airborne Remote Sensor Operator (ARSO) plus one relief crew.

Minimum Aircraft Requirements:

Must have a Standard Airworthiness Certificate.

Aircraft certified under 14 CFR 23 or 25.

An aircraft make and model for which engineering and logistical support for continued airworthiness is provided from the current type certificate or supplemental type certificate holder.

VFR/IFR, Day/Night, Known Ice.

Payload of 900lbs with 4 hours of fuel and 30-minute fuel reserve plus a 200lb pilot with 25lb survival kit.

Fuel endurance of no less than four hours plus a 30-minute fuel reserve with the required payload at 3000’ pressure altitude, 25ºc, and minimum 120 KIAS.

Loiter time of no less than three hours at 7,000’ MSL no slower than 1.3 Vs1.

Cruise airspeed 240 kts at 22,000’ and +20°C ISA.

Single engine service ceiling of 14,000 feet pressure altitude, ISA +10°c with the required payload.

Pressurized aircraft with environmental controls. Heater and air conditioner

110v power source in the aft cabin.

Minimum 1 USB charging port for ATGS which will occupy the co-pilot (SIC) seat.

Insured seating for three (3) passengers. The ATGS will occupy the co-pilot seat on the flight deck.

ARSO station. See Exhibit 7 Camera Sensor Specifications (MX-15 or similar)

Visibility: No external obstructions within the field of regard, 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock, as viewed from the cockpit and minimal restrictions to outward visibility of the ground in level flight for the rear observers.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

B1 Scope of Contracts

B1.1 The intent of these contracts is to obtain fully contractor operated and maintained Aerial Supervision aircraft for fire suppression and/or all-risk missions when ordered. Contractor must provide fully operational remote sensing equipment capable of intelligence data collection, fire detection, mapping, aerial supervision, and tactical ground support. Contractor will be required to perform these services seven days a week. For each day the aircraft is required to be available; the Contractor must provide an Airbone Remote System Operator (ARSO) to operate and maintain the sensor system on all missions. The Government will provide the Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS). Missions include initial and extended attack fires, in support of nationwide interagency federal wildland fire and other emergency all-risk missions during all hazard incident operations.

B.1.1.1 The aircraft awarded under these contracts must be capable of performing fire detection, mapping, aerial supervision and provide air-to-ground tactical support. It is important to note that these contracts will be part of the national response framework for the suppression of wildland fires and/or other emergency all-risk missions that may be dispatched at the direction of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), United States Forest Service (USFS) and other federal agencies as needed for locations throughout the Lower 48 States, and Alaska.

B1.1.2 The aircraft will be used for incident support and may also be used for law enforcement, administrative flights, and other special use missions in support of government operations. Law enforcement will be limited to non-threatening surveillance and reconnaissance.

B1.1.3 The intent of the Sensor requirement is to provide aerial supervision and provide intelligence data by imagery, full motion video, and data while operating at altitudes between 3,500’ and 20,000’ AGL during complex and emerging incident(s) in the wildland fire and other emergency incidents. The resource provides enhanced situational awareness for the Air Tactical Supervisor and incident management personnel by producing real-time and near real-time information. Missions may include fire detection, mapping, full-motion video capture and recording.

1. The minimum crew configuration for the mission of three (3) is:

· One flight crew (PIC)

· One government Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS)

· One Mission Sensor Operator (Contractor)

· Optional government Secondary ATGS, Trainee, or Instructor as needed

B1.2 The Government and Contractor must establish an effective working relationship to successfully complete these contracts. The cooperation, professionalism, and positive attitude of the Contractor’s employees toward aviation safety and accomplishment of the mission are an integral element of this relationship.

B1.3 The Government has interagency and cooperative agreements with other Federal agencies, State agencies, and private landholders and may dispatch aircraft under these contracts for such cooperative use.

B1.4 During any task order period, aircraft furnished shall be subject to the exclusive use of the Government.

B1.5 This aircraft may be dispatched to Alaska. For the Alaska-specific equipment and/or operational requirements, refer to the Alaska Supplement Exhibit (see Section C).

B2 Certifications

The Contractor must obtain 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 Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Air Carrier Certificate or Operating Certificate which authorizes the Contractor to operate in the category and class of aircraft and under flight conditions required by these contracts (e.g., airplane, multiengine, visual flight rules (VFR), instrument flight rules (IFR), day/night, passengers, and cargo).

B2.2 The aircraft must be identified on the list required by 14 CFR Part 135.63(a)(3) or Operations Specifications Part D, "Aircraft Listing,".

B2.3 The contract aircraft must have a Standard Airworthiness Certificate and have engineering support for continued air worthiness from the current type certificate holder or supplemental type certificate holder. Installation of any equipment required by these contracts must be FAA approved.

B2.4 The Contractor needs to have Operations Specifications that permit all Contiguous United States and Alaska operations.

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 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 Contracts and Task Orders

B4.1 The Contractor must maintain a complete, current copy of the contract, modifications, and task orders (if applicable) 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 these contracts and make this information available to government representatives on request.

B4.3 Electronic copies of contracts and task orders may be used. However, the contractor is responsible for ensuring that the documents are uploaded on an appropriate viewing device (e.g., laptop or tablet), which must be charged and made available at the aircraft for reference by government representatives upon request. Further, the contractor must agree to hold the government harmless for any inadvertent or accidental damage to the device.

B5 Condition of Equipment

The Contractor-furnished aircraft 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 hinder visibility.

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

B5.3 See the Unacceptable Lap Belt and Shoulder Harness Conditions Exhibit for lap belt and shoulder harness conditions that are not acceptable.

B6 Aircraft Equipment Requirements

Any aircraft, provided for use under these contracts must be equipped with items as shown below:

B6.1 Current aeronautical charts covering area of operations. Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) are authorized but must be so through Opspec A061.

B6.2 Sensor system to meet requirements of Exhibit 7.

B6. 3 Free air temperature gauge.

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

B6.5 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 Fire extinguisher(s), as required by 14 CFR Part 135, for the purposes of these contracts, must be a handheld bottle, minimum 2-B:C rating, mounted and accessible to the flight crew while seated. The fire extinguisher must be maintained in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Manual 10, Standards for Portable Fire Extinguishers or the Contractor’s 135 operations manual.

B6.7 Dual flight controls for initial pilot performance evaluation.

B6.8 Aircraft lighting for night operation in accordance with 14 CFR Part 91.205(c), including instrument lights.

B6.9 A wing and tail strobe light system with an independent activating switch.

B6.10 High-visibility, pulsating, forward facing, conspicuity lighting.

B6.11 Reserved.

B6.12 Cabin heater and window defogger.

B6.13 Reserved.

B6.14 A first aid kit containing at least the items specified in the First Aid and Survival Kits Exhibit must be carried aboard the aircraft on all flights.

B6.15 A survival kit containing at least the items specified in the First Aid and Survival Kits Exhibit must be carried aboard the aircraft on all flights and must be included in weight and balance calculations.

B6.16 FAA-approved cargo restraints, cargo nets, and cargo straps for cargo tie down in cabin and baggage compartment area.

B6.17 The aircraft must be equipped with one circuit breaker-protected USB 3.0 charging port for powering Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) as described in B7.6.6.

B6.18 Government Furnished Equipment (GFE)

B6.18.1 Aerial Supervision Mission checklist. This checklist is required to be in the aircraft and utilized in-accordance-with the Interagency Aerial Supervision Guide (IASG). The aerial supervision mission checklist is attached as an exhibit to Section C of this solicitation. Copies of the IASG may be obtained from any interagency fire cache; item NFES 2544.

B6.19 ATGS seating positions shall be at the SIC position (cockpit). The secondary ATGS/Instructor/Trainee position shall be on the right side of the aircraft, in a location that provides for minimal obstruction to the view outside the aircraft (downward looking), while sitting in an OEM seat with their shoulder beside the largest window(s) possible, their seatbelt fastened, back against the backrest and reach the station avionics.

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 (FSAMD_A24F.pdf) (copies available upon request from OAS Avionics, or the most recent list may be found online at: https://www.nifc.gov/resources/NIICD/niicd-documents)

B7.1.2-3 Reserved

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 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.

B7.2.4 Transmitters shall not open squelch on, or interfere with, other AM or FM transceivers in the aircraft which are monitoring different frequencies. So-called “Transmit Interlock” functions shall not be used with communication transceivers.

B7.2.5 All installed transceivers must be placarded with designations matching the transmitter/receiver controls on the installed audio control system(s).

B7.3 Communications Systems

B7.3.1 One automatic-fixed Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), which must: be certified under TSO-C126 (or newer): be installed in accordance with the ELT manufacturer’s instructions (including rigid attachment providing less than one-tenth inch movement with 100 lbs. force applied in the weakest direction); be mounted in a conspicuous or marked location, and; meet the requirements detailed in 14 CFR 91.207 (excluding section f). The ELT’s remote switch/light must be mounted in view of the pilot, and if not powered by its own battery or that of the transmitter, must be powered by un-switched aircraft power. The ELT must include a 121.5MHz homing beacon, and its antenna(s) 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. ELT’s utilizing hook-and-loop (e.g. Velcro) mounting straps will not be acceptable after January 1, 2024.

B7.3.1.1-2 Reserved

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. Although not required by Federal Aviation Regulations, the aircraft’s radio call sign (normally the aircraft registration number) must be displayed on the instrument panel, in view of the flight crew.

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

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

B7.3.5 Automated Flight Following (AFF) Program

B7.3.5.1 One satellite-based aircraft tracking hardware compatible with the government’s Automated Flight Following (AFF) Program (https://www.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.gov. For questions about current compatibility requirements, select the “HELP” button at https://www.aff.gov.

B7.3.5.2 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.

B7.3.5.3 AFF communications must be fully operational in all areas of operation at all times. Contractors working in or accepting dispatches to the State of Alaska, Southern Canada, or Western Canada must have an AFF system capable of being tracked in these locations at all times. Not all manufacturers’ AFF equipment communication links will operate effectively in all geographic areas.

B7.3.5.4 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

B7.3.5.5 Registration contact information, a web accessible feedback form, and additional information is available at: https://www.aff.gov.

B7.3.5.6 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.gov (indicating it is currently transmitting data to AFF.gov) and that all information displayed in AFF.gov is current. A username and password are required to access AFF.gov. Log on to the AFF website at https://www.aff.gov to request a username and password.

B7.3.5.7 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.

B7.3.5.8 This clause incorporates Specification Section Supplement available at: https://www.aff.gov/documents/Specification_Section_Supplement.pdf with the same force and affect as if they were presented as full text herein.

B7.3.5.9 Reserved

B7.3.6 Reserved

B7.4. Navigation Systems – IFR GPS Systems

B7.4.1 The GPS must be certified to TSO-C146 for IFR operations using the Wide-Area Augmentation System (WAAS), utilize the WGS-84 datum, reference latitude and longitude coordinates in the degrees/minutes/decimal minutes (DM) mode for aircraft positioning; utilize an approved, fixed, and external aircraft antenna.

B74.1.1 All GPS systems must allow for continuous application of aircraft electrical power through circuit protected source.

B7.4.1.2 The GPS installation must be FAA approved (or approval pending). Handheld, portable, and/or marine type equipment is not acceptable.

B7.4.1.3. The GPS navigation database must be current at all times and cover the lower 48 states and Alaska.

B7.4.2-7 Reserved

B7.4.8 A conveniently located GPS data port connector must be installed for the purposes of external data retrieval by a GIS laptop computer from the above GPS. The connector must be a DB-9F type D sub-connector, must be wired for RS-232C serial format for laptop computers (pin 2=transmit data, pin 3=receive data [if applicable], and pin 5=ground) and must be mounted in a location convenient to the front seat observer. The contractor must also furnish an adapter cable to interface the DB-9F Type D sub-connector to a USB-A connector.

B7.4.9 The aircraft must be equipped with the navigational equipment required for IFR operations as specified in 14 CFR 135.165, including, but not limited to, the following:

B7.4.9.1 Two VHF, VOR/LOC aeronautical navigation receivers with indicators (NAV-1, NAV-2), each with a minimum of 100 navigation receive channels.

B7.4.9.2 One glideslope (GS) system, with a minimum of 20 receive channels.

B7.4.9.3 One marker beacon receiver system with three-light indicator must be installed. The marker beacon receiver system is not required, if the aircraft is equipped with approved substitute equipment as described 14 CFR 91.175 (k).

Note: 14 CFR 91.175 (k) Approved substitute equipment is described as compass locator; precision approach radar (PAR) or airport surveillance radar (ASR); DME, VOR, or nondirectional beacon fixes authorized in the standard instrument approach procedure; or a suitable RNAV system in conjunction with a fix identified in the standard instrument approach procedure.

B7.5 Audio Systems

B7.5.1 Two separate audio control systems (dual systems installed in a single unit are NOT acceptable) must be provided for the pilot and ATGS/copilot, in locations convenient to each. Each system must provide pilot and ATGS/copilot with separate controls for selection of receiver audio outputs and transmitter microphone/PTT audio inputs for all installed radios. Each system must also provide pilot and ATGS/copilot with separate controls for adjustment of both the intercommunications system (ICS) and the receiver audio output levels.

B7.5.1.1.1 Reserved

Receiver selection and operation. Separate controls must be provided for both pilot and ATGS/co-pilot selection of audio from one or any combination of available receivers. Any ICS-equipped aft seat passenger positions not furnished with its own audio system must monitor the receiver(s) as selected by the ATGS/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 controls of the audio system(s) must be located and arranged so that both the pilot and ATGS/copilot, when seated, have full and unrestricted movement of each control 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.

B7.5.1.4 Aft ATGS Instructor Station. One aft cabin position must be provided for use by an ATGS instructor. A third audio control system, providing the same functions as those described in B7.5.1 et. seq. above, is required at this position.

B7.5.1.4.1 A third VHF-FM aeronautical transceiver (FM-3), meeting the same requirements as those detailed in B7.3.3 et. Seq. above, must be installed at the aft ATGS Instructor station.

B7.5.1.4.2 One FMV Enhance Fire Mission Workstation/Interface and Function Package for ARSO, meeting the same requirements as those detailed in Exhibit 7, B6.2.6 Operator Stations, must be installed at the aft ATGS Instructor Station.

B7.5.2 An ICS must be provided for the pilot, ATGS/copilot, the aft cabin ATGS instructor, and at least one other aft seat passenger 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 voice activation [VOX], must be provided for each position above. ICS sidetone audio must be provided for the earphones corresponding with the microphone in use. The ICS audio output must be free of excessive distortion, hum, noise, and crosstalk, and must be amplified sufficiently to facilitate ease of use in a noisy cockpit/cabin environment.

B7.5.3 Earphones, microphones, PTT’s, and jacks designed for operation with 600-ohm earphones and carbon-equivalent, noise-canceling boom type microphones (Gentex electret type model 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 J-033 and J-034 type connector jacks must be provided at all required positions in the aircraft to accept the PJ-055B and PJ-068 type connector plugs as utilized with the headset/ microphone.

B7.5.3.2 Separate PTT switches must be provided for radio transmitter microphone operation at the pilot, ATGS/copilot, and aft cabin ATGS instructor positions. The pilot's PTT switch must be mounted on the control yoke. The PTT switches for the ATGS/copilot and ATGS instructor positions must be mounted on the cord to the headset/microphone connector, or otherwise conveniently located for use, However, PTT switches for the ATGS/copilot, other than any mounted on the flight controls must also be furnished.

B7.6 Other Avionics

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

B7.6.2 The aircraft must be equipped with an FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO) approved traffic awareness and avoidance system (TCAS/TAS/TCAD/etc.) featuring active interrogation of threat aircraft. The system must be equipped with antenna(s) mounted on the aircraft so as to minimize airframe shadowing and provide 360-degree coverage.

B7.6.2.1 The system must also incorporate visual alerts for both pilot and co-pilot and an aural alerting feature which announces an alert of threat aircraft whenever such aircraft enter a zone of a programmable size with range selections from no more than two nautical miles to at least ten nautical miles around the aircraft. The audio alert output must be interconnected to the aircraft's audio system in such a manner that all ICS-equipped positions will receive the alert. If the aircraft is equipped with a Multi-Function Display (MFD), GPS, or other system capable of displaying threat aircraft output data, the system must also be interfaced to such.

B7.6.2.2 The system must be installed in accordance with an STC or FAA Field Approval based upon an existing STC and the manufacturers installation manual. Installation of the system must be accomplished by a certified avionics repair station which has been approved for such by the system’s manufacturer. The system must be maintained for continued airworthiness, but may be listed in an approved Minimum Equipment List (MEL), provided the MEL does not permit the system to be inoperable for a period exceeding 15 days.

B7.6.2.3 The following systems are known to meet the above requirements:

TCAS: Any TSO’d system which provides a range selection of 2 nautical miles or less.

TAS: Bendix-King KTA 870, Goodrich Skywatch HP

TCAD: Avidyne TAS600/605/615/620 (formerly Ryan International TCAD 9900BX) only when a separate, approved Multi-Function Display (MFD) is used to display threat aircraft data.

B7.6.2.4 Satellite-based Traffic Information Systems (TIS), and Automatic Dependent Survey Type “B” (ADS-B) systems do not meet the above requirements.

B7.6.3-4 Reserved

B7.6.5 The Contractor must ensure availability or furnish a cellular telephone for use by the PIC. Personal cell phones are acceptable. The cellular telephone must be provided with service to the area of the contiguous 48 States. Each cellular telephone must be equipped with both 110VAC and 12VDC adapter cord assemblies for charging use. The Contractor must provide the number of the cellular telephone to Government personnel when requested.

B7.6.6 Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B)

B7.6.6.1 Effective no later than January 1, 2020, all aircraft must be equipped to meet the ADS-B OUT requirements of 14 CFR 91.225. ADS-B OUT systems must be approved to either TSO-C154c (978MHz Universal Access Transceiver [UAT]) or TSO-C166b (1090MHz Extended Squitter [1090ES]). Aircraft operating outside of the United States must be equipped with systems approved to TSO-C166b.

B7.6.6.2 ADS-B IN system is required, system furnished must be TSO-approved, use diversity antennas on both the top and bottom of the aircraft, receive both UAT and 1090ES, and be interfaced to a multifunction display (MFD) capable of displaying TIS-B traffic and FIS-B weather.

B7.6.7 Two circuit breaker-protected USB charging ports for powering Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs), GPS devices, tablets, etc. The ports must be approved under TSO-C71, each be equipped with USB-A connectors, each providing a maximum of 2.1A power at 5VDC and mounted in a location convenient to the pilot and copilot/observer positions.

B7.6.8-9 Reserved

B8 Reserved

PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

B9 Pilot Requirements

B9.1 The Contractor must furnish a pilot for each day the aircraft is required to be available (see B10.2.6).

B9.2 The pilot must be familiar with this contract and all applicable task orders issued under this contract.

B9.2.1 The pilot must be able to provide contract and/or task order information to the COTR, OAS inspector, COR, project inspector (PI), or Government manager as requested.

B10 Pilot Qualifications

B10.1 General.

Pilot flight hours will be verified from an employer certified pilot log. Further verification of flight hours may be required at the COR’s discretion.

B10.2 Minimum Qualifications.

The Contractor must provide a pilot(s) who meets the following minimum qualifications and who possesses the required certificates and evidence of having satisfactorily passed the evaluations for the required tasks:

B10.2.1 An FAA commercial pilot certificate or higher with airplane category, appropriate class(es), type if required and instrument rating for offered aircraft.

B10.2.2 A minimum of a current second-class medical certificate issued in accordance with 14 CFR Part 67.

B10.2.3 A current FAA competency check completed in accordance with 14 CFR 135.293(a and b) in the same make and model as the contract aircraft; a current 14 CFR 135.299 line check; and, if appropriate (for airplane multiengine and single engine turbine), a current 14 CFR 135.297 instrument proficiency check.

B10.2.4 An initial and 60-month recurrent air-tactical-group-supervision, fire-reconnaissance and resource-reconnaissance agency flight evaluation is required to be flown and any flight evaluations thereafter are at the COR’s discretion in the same make and model as the contract aircraft. The Contractor must supply the aircraft for the flight evaluation at no expense to the Government.

B10.2.5 Proficient operation of all equipment identified in Section B (e.g., aircraft, FM radios and GPS). The agencies may require pilots to demonstrate this proficiency with an OAS/USFS approved inspector pilot during an evaluation flight.

B10.2.6 The Contractor must complete and submit an Airplane Pilot Qualifications and Approval experience resume form (Government provided before inspection) for each pilot offered for inspection and approval. The resume must include the names and addresses of past employers, substantiation of related type and typical terrain flying, and any and all accidents involving aircraft. The information must be submitted on form OAS-64A or FS 5700-20, Airplane Pilot Qualifications and Approval (with supplements if requested). The OAS-64A can be found at:

https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/forms#inspforms

B10.2.7 For a pilot that has not been previously inspected and approved by the DOI OAS or USDA, Forest Service, the Contractor will be required to provide a signed statement that they have verified the pilot’s flight time qualifications and experience. The COR will provide the Contractor a form to document this verification. This will be required prior to pilot inspection by DOI, OAS.

B10.2.8 Pilots must have logged minimum flying time as pilot-in-command (PIC) as follows:

(a) 1,500 hours…total pilot time.

(b) 1,200 hours…in airplanes.

(c) 200 hours…in class to be flown.

(d) 100 hours…night flying to include the recent flight experience requirements of 14 CFR 61. Multi-Engine and Single-Engine Turbine only.

(e) 75 hours… actual or simulated instrument flight time (including 50 hours in flight).

(f) 500 hours… cross-country.

(g) 200 hours… over typical (hazardous/ mountainous) terrain and landing facilities.

(h) Reserved.

(i) 50 hours…PIC in make and model of aircraft to be used on these contracts. (25 hours if the pilot has attended a formal training course which includes ground school for the make and model and a flight check.) (See B10.2.9)

(j) 100 hours…total time in class, preceding 12 months.

Note: RE: B10.2.8 (j) The Contractor may request that this pilot flight hour requirement be waived for a pilot under special circumstances; however, the waiver may or may not be granted. The Contractor should contact the Contracting Officer in advance of this need for additional information on this process. No other pilot qualification exceptions will be considered by the Government.

B10.2.9 Vendor in house FAA approved 14 CFR Part 135 training courses do not qualify for the 50% reduction.

B11 Flight Crewmembers Duty and Flight Limitations

Assigned duty of any kind must not exceed 14 hours in any 24-hour period. “Duty” includes flight time, ground duty of any kind, and standby. Local travel up to a maximum of 30 minutes each way between the worksite and place of lodging will not be considered duty time. Flight crewmembers will be subject to the following duty hour limitations:

B11.1 A maximum of 14 consecutive duty hours during any assigned duty period.

B11.1.1 All crewmembers must have two 24-hour periods of rest (off duty) within any 14 consecutive calendar days. In the conterminous United States, these two 24-hour rest periods must be 2 calendar days off duty.

B11.1.2 The pilot must be given a minimum of 10 consecutive hours of rest (off duty) prior to any assigned duty period.

B11.1.3 Regardless of the above limits, pilots are expected to notify the government if they become fatigued prior to reaching the duty day limit.

B11.2 Flight Limitations.

B11.2.1 Each crewmember must report all flight time, regardless of how or where performed, except personal pleasure flying. Crewmembers and relief crewmembers reporting for duty may be required to furnish a record of all duty and/or flight time during the previous 14 days. This record will be used to administer flight and duty time limitations.

B11.2.2 Flight time to and from a duty station as a flight crewmember (commuting) must be reported and counted toward limitations if it is flown on a duty day. Flight time includes but is not limited to military flight time, charter, flight instruction, 14 CFR Part 61.56 flight review, flight examinations by FAA designees, any flight time for which a flight crewmember is compensated, or any other flight time of a commercial nature whether compensated or not.

B11.2.3 Flight crewmembers will be limited to the following flight hour limitations, which must fall within their duty hour limitations:

B11.2.3.1 A maximum of 8 hours flight time during any assigned duty period.

B11.2.3.2 A maximum of 42 hours flight time during any consecutive 6-day period. When a pilot acquires 36 or more flight hours in a consecutive 6-day period, the pilot will be given the following 1 calendar day off duty for rest, after which a new 6-day cycle will begin.

B12 Personnel Duty Limitations

B12.1 The Contractor must monitor and remove from duty any personnel for fatigue or other causes before they reach their daily duty or flight limitations.

B12.2 Federal agencies may issue a notice reducing the length of personnel duty days and/or increasing days off either on a geographic or agency-wide basis.

B13 Mechanic Requirement

A mechanic must maintain the aircraft in accordance with the Contractor’s FAA-approved maintenance program. The mechanic does not need to remain at the designated/alternate base but must be available when aircraft maintenance is required.

B14 Mechanic Qualifications

The Contractor may enter into an agreement with a qualified mechanic or maintenance facility. The mechanic provided to support these contracts must possess the required certificates and minimum qualifications shown below:

B14.1 The mechanic must have a valid FAA mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant (A&P) ratings and must have held the certificate, or foreign equivalent, with both ratings for a period of 24 months.

B14.2 The mechanic must have been actively engaged in aircraft maintenance as a certificated mechanic for at least 18 months out of the last 24 months.

B14.3 The mechanic must have 12 months experience as an A&P mechanic, or foreign equivalent, in maintaining the same category (i.e., airplane/rotorcraft) of aircraft as the contract aircraft (3 of those 12 months must have been in the preceding 24 months).

B14.4 The mechanic must have 12 months maintenance experience on the same make and model as the contract aircraft or satisfactory completion of a manufacturer, or equivalent, maintenance course for the same make and model as the contract aircraft.

B15 Mechanic Duty Limitations

Contractor supplied mechanics deployed to the aircraft’s operating location (on-site) for field maintenance must not exceed the following duty limitations:

B15.1 Within any 24-hour period, mechanics must have a minimum of 8 consecutive hours off duty immediately prior to the beginning of any duty day. Local travel up to a maximum of 30 minutes each way between the worksite and place of lodging will not be considered duty time.

B15.2 Mechanics must have 2 full days off duty during any 14-day period during the performance of these contracts. Off duty days need not be consecutive.

B15.3 “Duty time” includes availability and work or alert status at any job site for which a mechanic is compensated, or any other time of a commercial nature whether compensated or not.

B15.4 The Government may further restrict duty hours and may remove the mechanic for fatigue or other causes before reaching their daily duty limitations.

B15.5 The mechanic is responsible for keeping the Government apprised of his or her duty limitation status.

B15.6 Relief or substitute mechanics reporting for duty may be required to furnish a record of all duty time during the previous 14 days.

B16 Airborne Remote Sensor Operator (ARSO)

For each day the aircraft is required to be available; the Contractor must provide an Airborne Remote System Operator (ARSO) to operate and maintain the sensor system on all missions.

B16.1 ARSO duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

B16.1.1 Mission planning, safety briefings, daily email communications regarding flight status and intentions, and other general office work as assigned.

B16.1.2 Flight mission duties include fully complying with safety briefings and other instructions provided by the PIC (pilot-in-command) and ATGS, assisting the PIC and ATGS with any crewmember responsibilities while inside or outside the aircraft, operating and monitoring the sensor system, and other related in-flight duties as requested.

B16.1.3 Post-flight duties include data transfers from the aircraft sensor hard drives to government personnel, email communications regarding status and other related information pertinent to the mission, packaging, and shipping of acquired data, planning the next mission, reviewing weather forecasts, and other related duties as requested

B16.2 The ARSO must meet the minimum qualifications identified below:

B16.2.1 Operated an airborne multispectral gimbaled remote sensor for a minimum of 100 hours to include EO/IR FMV sensor.

B16.2.2 Practical experience with mapping software for flight planning and airborne data acquisition navigation software and hardware.

B16.2.3 Practical experience or knowledge in aircraft operations/navigation, surveying, mapping, topography, engineering and geospatial, or other related mapping products supporting wildland fire suppression, law enforcement, and various other types of emergencies.

B16.2.4 Experience working with Google Earth, ArcGIS, or other similar mapping software and converting to various file types such as: geoPDF, Shapefile, KML, and KMZ for final packaged delivery to end users.

B17 Airborne Remote Sensor Operator Duty Limitations

Airborne Remote Sensor Operators (ARSO) must not exceed the following duty limitations:

B17.1 Within any 24-hour period, ARSOs must have a minimum of 8 consecutive hours off duty immediately prior to the beginning of any duty day. Local travel up to a maximum of 30 minutes each way between the worksite and place of lodging will not be considered duty time.

B17.2 ARSOs must have 2 full days off duty during any 14-day period during the performance of these contracts. Off duty days need not be consecutive.

B17.3 “Duty time” includes availability and work or alert status at any job site for which a mechanic is compensated, or any other time of a commercial nature whether compensated or not.

B17.4 The Government may further restrict duty hours and may remove the ARSOs for fatigue or other causes before reaching their daily duty limitations.

B17.5 The ARSOs is responsible for keeping the Government apprised of his or her duty limitation status.

B17.6 Relief or substitute ARSOs reporting for duty may be required to furnish a record of all duty time during the previous 14 days.

B18 Airborne Remote Sensor Operator…