S-13119_QandA3_041025.pdf

OregonBuys Bid# S-62900-00013119 – Type 1 Turbine Powered Helicopter Q&A #3

RFP # S-62900-00013119

TYPE 1 TURBINE POWERED HELICOPTER

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Question 1:

The solicitation states the aircraft must be a twin engine helicopter with 2 pilots. A single engine helicopter with one pilot will be able to meet the performance specifications listed in the solicitation. Can the twin engine duel pilot requirement be removed from the solicitation?

Answer 1:

Thank you for bringing this to our attention as it was an oversight. We will modify the requirements by addendum. We will not be removing the two pilots requirement and instead will allow for one pilot or two pilots depending on the type of Type 1 aircraft. We will remove references to the twin engine requirement. An addendum/amendment will be posted on OregonBuys for these changes and applicable documents can be found in Attachments.

Question 2:

As mentioned in the current RFP section 3.1, in order to submit a bid, the proposer must provide proof of pending carding inspection with the USFS, however, we are unable to schedule any inspections for our aircraft, fuel service equipments or flight crews until we have renewed our CWN contract with the forest service. I have made a few inquiries and I believe the ODF could put in a carding inspection request to the USFS regional aviation manager if we are awarded an EU contract with ODF? Would it be possible for you to confirm this is a possibility? In the mean time, can we go forward with a bid submission for the 2 type 1 exclusive use RFPs, without the required proof of a scheduled USFS carding inspection?

Answer 2:

ODF does have the ability to request cooperator inspections and federal letter of approval, however these inspections are not guaranteed, and the schedule is based on federal inspector availability. ODF is requiring current carding or proof of inspection date to avoid any issues or delays in receiving federal approval for fire season. Current federal carding or proof of inspection date is required for this Solicitation and Contract.

Confirmed, that ODF can request Cooperator Inspections.

OregonBuys Bid# S-62900-00013119 – Type 1 Turbine Powered Helicopter Q&A #3

The bid would be considered non-Responsive with no carding or proof of inspection/review date. If a Proposal is submitted that does not meet the RFP requirements, including those of Section 3.1 Minimum Qualifications, 3.2 Minimum Submission Requirements, and 3.3 Proposal Requirements, the Proposal may be rejected per Section 4.9.

Question 3 (Follow-up to Q&A2):

Just to make sure I understand you properly, will ODF make a request to Cooperator Inspections on behalf of our company to be able to respond to the bids?

Answer 3:

No, ODF will not make a request at this time. ODF will make a request for Letter of Approval for the Contract awardee. Current federal carding or expired card with proof of inspection/review date is a requirement for Responsiveness.

Question 4:

Per Attachment A, Section 4.3, the solicitation specifies a 2% annual escalation rate.

Considering sustained inflation and the impact of recent tariffs, would the Government consider increasing the escalation rate to 4% to ensure continued quality and performance throughout the life of the contract?

Answer 4:

No, that is not feasible with our fixed budget; however, the contract does allow for Additional Adjustments per the terms and conditions of Sections 4.3.1 and 4.3.2.