Next_Gen_3_Draft.pdf

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Attached to: Next Generation Large Airtanker Services 3. 0
Solicitation number: SN-2017-20
Issued by: Department of Agriculture Forest Service Fire and Aviation Management National Interagency Fire Center

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Solicitation No. AG-024B-S-17-90 U.S. Forest Service Exclusive Use Next Generation Large Airtanker Services 3.0 National Office

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

B-1 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS 3

B-2 OFFERED AIRCRAFT AND ASSOCIATED DATA 8

B-3 OFFERORS MAY QUALIFY THEIR OFFER BY INDICATING THE MAXIMUM

NUMBER OF ITEMS WILLING TO ACCEPT 8

B-4 AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS 8

B-5 AIRCRAFT/RETARDANT TANK(S) 10

B-6 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS 10

B-7 BASIC COVERAGE 10

B-8 STANDBY HOURS 11

B-9 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE 11

B-10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 11

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

C-1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT 11

C-2 CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVALS 12

C-3 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY 12

C-4 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS 12

C-5 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE 14

C-6 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED AVIONICS SYSTEMS Error! Bookmark not defined.

C-7 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT SECURITY 23

C-8 OPERATIONS 23

C-9 CONTRACTOR’S ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES 28

C-10 PERSONNEL 29

C-11 SUSPENSION AND/OR REVOCATION OF PILOT/MECHANIC 33

C-12 RANDOM DRUG TESTING 33

C-13 SUBSTITUTION OR REPLACEMENT OF PERSONNEL, AIRCRAFT, AND

EQUIPMENT 34

C-14 FLIGHT HOUR AND DUTY LIMITATIONS 34

C-15 ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND SAFETY 36

C-16 MISHAPS 36

C-17 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 38

SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKING

PACKAGING AND MARKING 33

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E-1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 40

E-2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 40

E-3 PROFICIENCY FLIGHTS 41

E-4 AIRCRAFT SECURITY INSPECTIONS 41

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F-1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCES 43

F-2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE 43

F-3 CONTRACT AND PERFORMANCE PERIODS 43

F-4 POST SEASON USE PERIOD 45

F-5 OPTIONAL USE PERIOD 45

SECTION G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G-1 PAYMENT PROCEDURES 46

G-2 FLIGHT TIME MEASUREMENT 46

G-3 PAYMENT FOR FLIGHT 46

G-4 PAYMENT FOR AVAILABILITY/UNAVAILABILITY 47

G-5 PAYMENT FOR EXTENDED STANDBY 47

G-6 REIMBURSEMENT FOR MOBILIZATION AND DEMOBILIZATION COSTS 47

G-7 PAYMENT FOR OVERNIGHT ALLOWANCE 47

G-8 MISCELLANEOUS COSTS TO THE CONTRACTOR 48

G-9 PAYMENT FOR FUEL – US GOVERNMENT AIR CARD PROGRAM 48

SECTION H – SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H-1 CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION 50

H-2 POST AWARD CONFERENCE 50

H-3 COMMERCIAL FILMING AND VIDEOTAPING 51

PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES

I-1 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 53

I-2 UPDATES OF PUBLICLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION REGARDING

RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS 54

I-3 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT 56

I-4 AFFIRMATIVE PROCUREMENT OF EPA-DESIGNATED ITEMS IN SERVICE

AND CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS 56

I-5 STATEMENT OF EQUIVALENT RATES FOR FEDERAL HIRES 56

I-6 PROPERTY AND PERSONAL DAMAGE 57

I-7 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE 57

I-8 EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION 58

I-9 ASSURANCE REGARDING FELONY CONVICTION OR TAX DELINQUENT

STATUS FOR CORPORATE APPLICANTS 61

I-10 ATTACHMENTS TO STATEMENTS OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS 61

I-11 INSURANCE COVERAGE 61

iii

PART III – LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

SECTION J – LIST OF EXHIBITS

EXHIBITS – LIST OF EXHIBITS 63

EXHIBIT 1 – BASIC EQUIPMENT AND FIRE EQUIPMENT 64

EXHIBIT 2 – STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY PROGRAM 65

EXHIBIT 3 – AVIONICS 73

EXHIBIT 4 – FLIGHT EQUIPMENT 74

EXHIBIT 5 – FIRST AID KIT AERONAUTICAL 75

EXHIBIT 6 – SURVIVAL KIT – AERONAUTICAL (LOWER 48 AND ALASKA) 76

EXHIBIT 7 – AIRCRAFT MARKINGS 78

EXHIBIT 8 – LOAD CHART 79

EXHIBIT 9 – DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE REQUIREMENTS (ALASKA) 81

EXHIBIT 10 – US GOVERNMENT AIR CARD FUEL PROGRAM 85

EXHIBIT 11 – SYNOPSIS OF AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAM 87

EXHIBIT 12 – DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS 93

EXHIBIT 13 – DEPARTMENT OF LABOR WAGE DETERMINATIONS 98

EXHIBIT 14 – AIRCRAFT RECORDS AND MANUALS 115

EXHIBIT 15 – AIRCRAFT FLIGHT & MAINTENANCE LOG – SAMPLE 117

EXHIBIT 16 – AIRTANKER INSPECTION FORM 118

EXHIBIT 17 – AIRCREW TRAINING FORM 122

EXHIBIT 18 – CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION 124

EXHIBIT 19 – RETARDANT TANK REQUIREMENTS 129

EXHIBIT 20 – WEIGHT AND BALANCE FORM 130

EXHIBIT 21 – OFFERED AIRCRAFT CHARTS 133

EXHIBIT 22 – AIRCRAFT SPEED SCENARIOS 135

PART IV – REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION K – REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER STATEMENTS

OF OFFERORS OR RESPONDENTS

K-1 CERTIFICATE OF INDEPENDENT PRICE DETERMINATION 139

K-2 ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS 140

K-3 CERTIFICATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS 144

K-4 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS 146

K-5 SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REPRESENTATIONS 148

K-6 PREVIOUS CONTRACTS AND COMPLIANCE REPORTS 151

K-7 AFFIRMATIVE ACTION COMPLIANCE 152

K-8 REPRESENTATION BY CORPORATIONS REGARDING AN UNPAID

DELINQUENT TAX LIABILITY OR A FELONY CONVICTION 152

SECTION L- INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS OR

RESPONDENTS

L-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 153

L-2 INQUIRIES 153

L-3 TYPE OF CONTRACT 153

L-4 SERVICE OF PROTEST 153

L-5 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF TECHNICAL AND BUSINESS

PROPOSALS 154

L-6 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS 160

L-7 REALISM IN PROPOSALS 161

SECTION M – EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

M-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 162

M-2 EVALUATION OF CRITERIA OF PROPOSALS 162

M-3 EVALUATION METHOD 165

M-4 CONTRACT AWARD 166

Part I THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

It is the intent of this solicitation to secure a Firm Fixed Price Multi-Year contract(s) not to exceed 10-years (5 year base with 5 one year options) for the daily availability rate. The U.S.

Forest Service will guarantee payment, at the fixed daily availability rate, for each Mandatory Availability Period under the contract. Flights hours will be ordered, also at a fixed rate, on an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity basis and are not guaranteed. The Forest Service intends to award up to eight (8) line items for next generation turbine powered large airtankers with a retardant capacity of 3000-5000 gallons. Contracts will begin service in calendar year 2018 and will have a base period of five (5) years with five (5) one year options.

Proposed aircraft flight rates shall be dry rates with the Government providing fuel through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) AIR Card program. The contractor shall provide a second means of paying for fuel during instances when the DLA card is not accepted.

The Government may award a single line item, multiple line items, or no line items at all based on the outcome of the evaluation process. Contract(s) shall be awarded with the first program year of the resulting contract(s) beginning at the time of award indicated on the schedule of items. The solicitation is written to include the requirements for each program year. Award(s) will not be made on less than the first program year requirements The Government’s evaluation of the price or estimated cost and fee shall consider all base period and option years combined. Cancellation of this contract can occur if it is determined that the agency will not have the necessary funds to continue this program. If a cancellation were to occur, contractors would be eligible to receive compensation. The compensation would cover only eligible expenses up to the percentages outlined for the cancellation ceiling (below) in accordance with FAR clause 52.217-2 Cancellation Under Multiyear Contracts (Section I – below). The proposed percentages are the maximum percent of the total cost for each program year to be set aside for the cancellation ceiling and date/period and are as follows:

First Program Year 40% Calendar Year 2018

Second Program Year 36% Calendar Year 2019

Third Program Year 32% Calendar Year 2020

Fourth Program Year 28% Calendar Year 2021

These common averages for the cancellation ceiling were estimated by taking the average of total projected dollars for next generation airtankers and divided by estimated overhead and pre-season costs plus a percentage of costs anticipated to be amortized over the five (5) year base contract period. Contractors will not be eligible for compensation if option periods are not exercised. The date/period of time on these contract(s) is established by the agency to coincide with funding availability. It is the contractor’s responsibility to furnish, along with their proposal, documentation supporting any changes in the proposed cancellation ceilings provided. This documentation should be submitted with their proposal under separate cover and will be evaluated and negotiated at time of award. The cancellation ceiling shall not be used as an evaluation factor.

Offerors may submit offers for any or all of the line items located in the Schedule of Items for which they wish to be considered. Offerors must provide all information in Section B-1, Part I THE SCHEDULE

Schedule of Items, and B-2 Offered Aircraft as requested. All prices for this solicitation are to be priced out by the offeror(s) for each continuing year (Base and Option).

Government reserves the right to award all or none of the items in the Schedule of Items. If the Government determines before award that only the first program year requirements are needed, the Government’s evaluation of the price or estimated cost and fee shall consider only the first year. Award will not be made on less than the first program year requirements.

The Government’s administrative costs of annual contracting may be used as a factor in the evaluation only if they can be reasonably established and are stated in the solicitation.

After award, the offerors will have their offered aircraft ready to perform for the 2018 fire season. When the Mandatory Availability Period (MAP) period begins, any awarded Line Item aircraft not ready to perform shall be subject to Termination.

After the first year of the base period, MAP opening dates may change based on calendar year date designation from year to year. After the first year, the MAP will commence “on or about” the designated date contained in the contract Schedule of Items plus or minus 15 days.

Changes to the beginning and ending date of the MAP period shall be made and communicated to the contractors by the Contracting Officer (CO) on or before February 20th of all but year number 1.

Aircraft that are currently working on other Exclusive Use U.S. Forest Service contracts for 2018 and beyond may not be proposed for this solicitation.

Care should be taken to provide separate Technical and Business/Price proposals in accordance with the solicitation instructions in Sections L & M.

Exclusive Use Next Generation 3.0 Airtanker Services National Office

PART I THE SCHEDULE

B-1 SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

Schedule of Items – Base Year 1

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

001 160 TBD

002 160 TBD

003 160 TBD

004 160 TBD

005 160 TBD

006 160 TBD

007 220 TBD

008 220 TBD

Schedule of Items – Base Year 2

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

101 160 TBD

102 160 TBD

103 160 TBD

104 160 TBD

105 160 TBD

106 160 TBD

107 220 TBD

108 220 TBD

1 On or about, ± 15 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

2 Offerors with IAB interim/provisional approval- submit the most recent IAB letter documenting the IAB interim/ provisional approval. In B.2 for each line item being proposed state a daily availability rate that reflects a 25% reduction from known or previously stated Exclusive Use rates.

2 Offerors with IAB interim/provisional approvals must gain IAB full approval at the end of the IAB time period stated in the letter. If the Offeror’s airtankers have not achieved full approval when the interim/ provisional approval expires, this contract may be terminated.

Schedule of Items – Base Year 3

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

201 160 TBD

202 160 TBD

203 160 TBD

204 160 TBD

205 160 TBD

206 160 TBD

207 220 TBD

208 220 TBD

Schedule of Items – Base Year 4

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

301 160 TBD

302 160 TBD

303 160 TBD

304 160 TBD

305 160 TBD

306 160 TBD

307 220 TBD

308 220 TBD

1 On or about, ± 15 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

Schedule of Items – Base Year 5

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

401 160 TBD

402 160 TBD

403 160 TBD

404 160 TBD

405 160 TBD

406 160 TBD

407 220 TBD

408 220 TBD

Schedule of Items – Option 1 (Year 6)

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

501 160 TBD

502 160 TBD

503 160 TBD

504 160 TBD

505 160 TBD

506 160 TBD

507 220 TBD

508 220 TBD

1 On or about, ± 15 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

Schedule of Items – Option 3 (Year 8)

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

701 160 TBD

702 160 TBD

703 160 TBD

704 160 TBD

705 160 TBD

706 160 TBD

707 220 TBD

708 220 TBD

1 On or about, ± 15 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

Schedule of Items – Option 2 (Year 7)

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

601 160 TBD

602 160 TBD

603 160 TBD

604 160 TBD

605 160 TBD

606 160 TBD

607 220 TBD

608 220 TBD

Schedule of Items – Option 5 (Year 10)

Item Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

901 160 TBD

902 160 TBD

903 160 TBD

904 160 TBD

905 160 TBD

906 160 TBD

907 220 TBD

908 220 TBD

1 On or about, ± 15 days. After award the CO will assign each Line Item its day off. The estimated ending date will be determined annually by the CO.

Schedule of Items – Option 4 (Year 9)

Number

Tanker N-Number

Tanker # (If assigned)

Tanker Make/Model

MAP

Days

MAP

Start Date 1

Daily Availability

Rate2

Hourly Flight Rate

Daily Optional/Post Use Rate

801 160 TBD

802 160 TBD

803 160 TBD

804 160 TBD

805 160 TBD

806 160 TBD

807 220 TBD

808 220 TBD

B-2 OFFERED AIRCRAFT AND ASSOCIATED DATA

Offered Aircraft Airtanker

N# Tanker

Airtanker

Make/Model/ Serial # Retardant Payload 1

Normal Operating

Wt.

Cruise

(KTAS) 2

Hourly Fuel Consumption 3

1 Exact payload in U.S. pounds for each individual aircraft will be computed from documented weight and balance data. The minimum required volume is 3000 gallons (dispensable) and 27,000 pounds of payload. The maximum allowed volume is 5000 gallons (dispensable) and 45,000 pounds of payload. Dispensing volume shall be the gallons/volume identified on the Interagency Airtanker Board interim/provisional or full approval letter for the proposed aircraft.

Aircraft with less than 3000-gallon dispensing capacity or greater than 5000- gallon dispensing capacity will not be considered.

“Dispensable payload” for purposes of meeting the minimum acceptable capacity is measured at sea level with zero wind and 30°C conditions and a ground roll of 6,000 feet or less.

2 Cruise speed is based on maximum payload on board utilizing cruise power or maximum speed restriction by the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC). Cruise speed is computed at 12,000 feel MSL, at maximum payload, with power as required to maintain best speed without exceeding manufacturer or FAA operating limitations. Aircraft proposed shall be capable of 300 knots (KTAS) or greater with maximum payload at Flight Level 180 as demonstrated by performance charts.

3 Offeror shall describe the fuel consumption/flow and conditions for the submitted cruise speed.

Fuel consumption shall be in U.S. Gallons per hour.

B-3 OFFERORS SHALL STATE THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF ITEMS THEY ARE ABLE TO

PROVIDE.

Prior to award, offered aircraft will be physically inspected by the government to validate that aircraft, tank, engineering, and the maintenance organization are consistent with the offeror’s proposal and meets contract requirements. Refer to Section L-5 (b) (2) (ii) for additional information.

Maximum Number of Items: ______________

B-4 AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS

Aircraft shall be turbine powered.

(a) Aircraft performance data shall be computed using the aircraft Normal Operating Weight determined by the following weight factors:

(1) Aircraft Empty Weight in mission configuration. ______________ lbs.

(As weighed and lifted on calibrated scales within 30 days of proposal submittal as listed in Exhibit 20. Must be certified)

(2) Flight crew weight. __________ lbs. (200 lbs. per flight crew member-Estimated Weight)1

(3) 2½ hours of fuel computed at the cruise speed specified in B-2.________ lbs.

(Jet A Fuel weight estimated at 6.8 pounds per gallon)

(4) Miscellaneous Contractor/Flight Crew items carried aboard the aircraft._________lbs.

(as listed in Exhibit 20 and includes Non-mission essential equipment per C-4 (d) (1))

(5) Contracted retardant weight (payload). __________lbs. (Weight using 9 pounds per gallon)

(6) Weight penalty placed on the aircraft by the FAA for the tank installation.________lbs.

(If applicable)

(b) Takeoff, Landing, and Taxiing

(1) List all Airtanker Base, include airport identifier, locations (Reference the list in Section J, Exhibit 8) that the company is unable or unwilling to work from.

(i) Bases your aircraft can’t land fully loaded with retardant and with 2.5 hours of fuel.

(ii) Bases that have runways, taxiways, ramps, or any potential surface that cannot support your aircraft at Max Gross Weight.

(2) Using the Load Chart in Section J, Exhibit 8 and referencing current Airtanker Base runway dimensions and elevation, list the temperature at which you must begin downloading retardant at each base (include airport identifier). Calculate data using full load of retardant and 2.5 hours of fuel. Show download temperature for all current bases.

In reference to the above requirements, vendors shall offer a Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) for the proposed aircraft. AFM’s are not acceptable substitutions.

(2) Offered aircraft in accordance with the manufacturer’s normal Takeoff configuration (using appropriate performance charts) shall be capable of accelerating on all engines to V2 per 14 CFR part 1.1 and lift-off within 80% of the effective runway. V2 per 14 CFR

1 Refer to C.8 (i) (1) for approved flight crew requirements part 1.1 is defined as the manufacturers or FAA-approved lift-off speed, or if these are not available, 115% of power-off stall speed for the takeoff configuration.

(3) All contracted Forest Service Next Generation Large Airtankers shall carry the maximum contract retardant dispensing payload and shall carry the contract fuel load (no less than 2.5 hours) when departing from an airport in support of firefighting operations. When load and return missions are requested, it is not necessary to refuel if the amount of fuel on board is sufficient to complete the load and return request and the PIC can meet fuel reserve requirements. If downloading is necessary to meet environmental performance requirements, the PIC shall adjust the aircraft weight and balance to mitigate unnecessary risk. When downloading is necessary, the COR and Air Tanker Base Manager (ATBM) shall be informed. The ATBM shall document the occurrence and down amounts.

(4) For takeoffs, offered aircraft shall meet accelerate-stop requirements, (must show all performance charts and work). Aircraft shall be capable of accelerating on all engines to the manufacturer’s or FAA approved V1 (per 14 CFR part 1.1), experience a failed engine, and either continue to accelerate to take-off with a failed engine within the remaining runway, or come to a complete stop on the runway. If V1 (per 14 CFR part 1.1) is not available, V2 (per 14 CFR part 1.1) shall be used in determining accelerate-stop requirements.

(5) The accelerate-stop distance shall not be greater than the length of the runway plus the length of the stopway (if present). For ex-military or restricted category airplanes, a stopway is a safety asset, but cannot be used in the accelerate-stop calculation.

B-5 AIRCRAFT/RETARDANT TANK(S)

Offered aircraft shall be turbine powered and have Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) full or interim/provisional approval prior to pre-use inspection.

B-6 FLIGHT CREWMEMBERS

For their assigned crew position, flight crewmembers shall have a FAA commercial rating or higher with appropriate instrument ratings.

B-7 BASIC COVERAGE

Vendors will operate on a 6 days on, 1 day off schedule, or if vendor requested and Government approved, 12 days on duty and two days off duty may be authorized, (approval is not guaranteed and is decided on a case-by-case basis). The Government will determine the day(s) off for each line item.

Vendors may be asked to provide 7 day coverage, but will not be penalized if unable to provide it.

The vendor shall supply the Contracting Officer with a schedule of days off and relief personnel for flight crews and mechanics 15 days prior to the MAP start date. If changes to the proposed schedule or relief occur the vendor shall notify the CO or COR immediately.

B-8 STANDBY HOURS

Crew and Aircraft must standby the first 9-hours of the day ordered by the Government. Crews may be required to remain on site for dispatch up to 14 hours (maximum).

B-9 EXTENDED STANDBY RATE

Hours of standby in excess of the first 9 hours may be ordered by the Government. Rate is $51.00 per hour per authorized Flight Crewmember plus two (2) mechanics. The maximum total daily hours will not exceed 14. (See Section G-5).

B-10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Additional information required to be submitted with your Proposal is contained in Section L, Instructions to Offerors-Competitive Acquisition (FAR 52.215-1) (JAN 2004)

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/WORK STATEMENT

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

C-1 SCOPE OF CONTRACT

(a) It is the intent of this solicitation and any resultant contract to secure a Firm-Fixed Price

Multi-Year (5 year base) with five (5) one year options contract not to exceed ten (10) years for turbine powered Fixed-Wing Large Airtanker(s) services fully operated by qualified personnel and equipped to meet the specifications of this RFP.

Primary use of airtankers under this contract will be for initial attack (IA) of wildfires, as contrasted with large fire support (LFS). These airtankers are expected to carry a minimum of

3000 gallons and maximum of 5000 gallons of retardant to fires in the beginning stages of fire initiation for anticipated missions of one hour or less. These immediate response actions occur in the first burning periods and are intended to support personnel either on scene or enroute to the incident in containing the fire when it is least costly to do so. During the MAP the airtanker shall be made available for the exclusive use of the government.

(b) The Government requires the use of one or more large airtanker(s) that can be dispatched to wildland fires on a nationwide basis based on predicted and existing fire activity. After the aircraft is activated and on site ready for dispatch, the aircraft must be capable of responding to a resource order within 30 minutes after receiving the dispatch.

(c) Airtankers will be annually assigned an administrative Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for contract management oversight. The COR will provide day-to-day oversight management, tracking, and process payments. Additional Project Inspectors (PIs) may also be assigned to assist with oversight at primary operating locations. The COR or PI on location will verify aircraft status with the contractor and communicate all dispatches to the designated company representative. The COR may not be on site at all times.

(d) All services provided under this contract shall be performed in a safe and efficient manner.

Contractors shall use all reasonable means to support safety awareness and adherence to established FAA standards and procedures.

(e) All contract services provided under this contract including aircraft and pilots shall comply with the applicable Forest Service aviation policy in Forest Service Manual 5700, Forest Service Handbook 5709.16 and applicable agency and interagency plans, guides or standards.

(f) Contract personnel shall conduct themselves in a professional and cooperative manner in fulfilling this Contract.

(1) Performance of these contract services may involve work and/or residence on Federal property (i.e., National Forests and National Parks, etc.). Contractor’s employees are expected to follow the rules of conduct established which apply to all Government and non-Government personnel working or residing on Government facilities.

(2) Contractor personnel shall perform effectively. Personnel who perform ineffectively, refuse to cooperate in the fulfillment of the contract objectives, or are unable or unwilling to adapt to field living conditions, or whose general performance is unsatisfactory or otherwise disruptive, can be replaced at the discretion of the CO.

(3) The CO shall notify the offeror of specifics of the unsatisfactory conduct and/or performance by the offeror’s personnel. The determination of unacceptability is at the sole discretion of the CO. When directed by the CO, the offeror shall replace unacceptable personnel.

(g) The Contractor must provide all personnel, facilities, technical support, equipment, financial support, and materials required to accomplish the work required herein unless otherwise agreed to by the CO.

C-2 CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVALS

(a) Aircraft shall conform to an approved type design, be maintained and operated in accordance with Type Certificate (TC) requirements and applicable Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs). The aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with an FAA approved inspection program and must include an FAA approved Supplemental Structural Inspection Document (SSID), Structural Inspection Document (SID), or Instruction for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) for the airframe structure, as applicable with an ICA and Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) approved by the manufacturer (or equivalent) and the FAA for the airtanker role.

(b) Contractors shall be currently certificated to meet Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 137 (Agricultural Aircraft Operations). Any aircraft offered shall be listed by make, model, series, and registration number on the Contractor’s Operations Specifications.

(c) Contractors are also required to hold a 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Station Certificate with a Class or limited airframe rating for offered aircraft. All maintenance shall be performed under the contractor’s Repair Station Certificate. Under certain circumstances non-CRS personnel may perform preventive maintenance functions such as those contained in 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A, if approved in advance by a USFS Aviation Maintenance Inspector.

(d) Aircraft shall be 14 CFR Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) certified.

(e) All aircraft must have a current Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) full or interim/provisional approval. Any modification or alteration to the tank system that may alter the IAB and Aerial Delivery Test Team retardant coverage test results shall be approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) prior to the airtanker pre-use inspection.

(f) Any modification or alteration which affects the aircraft performance, flight characteristics, or operational limitations, must be approved by the USFS Airworthiness Branch Chief.

C-3 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY

If Government Furnished Property (GFP) is provided, the Contractor shall be required to sign a property receipt document. Upon Government request, GFP shall be returned to the Government in accordance with GFP FAR Clause 52.245-1 (APR 2012).

C-4 AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS

(a) General

Aircraft must be turbine powered and have been issued a Standard or a Restricted Category Airworthiness Certificate and shall meet the following:

(1) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) that allows for the dropping of retardant on wildland fires (i.e. aerial dispersant of liquids);

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) or equivalent approval for the aircraft for aerial dispersant of liquids

(2) An OEM or equivalent Structural Integrity Program for the firefighting role.

(3) Aircraft must be able to be pressurized during non-retardant carrying flights per (§

23.841 Pressurized cabins).

Note: Refer to Section J, Exhibit 2 for critical information regarding engineering, maintenance, inspection, and data collection and monitoring required by this contract.

Failure to accomplish items and maintain compliance with the requirements identified in this exhibit will result in termination of this contract. The Contractor shall keep and maintain programs necessary to assure continued compliance. The development and maintenance of this program is a material part of the performance of the contract. When, in the sole judgment of the CO, the program does not comply the Government shall initiate termination of the contract as provided in the “Contract Terms and Conditions.”

(b) Condition of Equipment

(1) Contractor-furnished aircraft and equipment shall be operable, free of damage, and in good repair. Fluid leaks shall be within manufacturer’s specified limits. Retardant leakage from tanks is unacceptable.

(2) All windows and windshields shall be clean and free of scratches, cracks, crazing, distortion, or repairs, which hinder visibility.

(3) The aircraft interior shall be clean and neat.

(4) The exterior finish shall be clean, neat, and in good condition. Low visibility paint schemes are unacceptable.

(5) If the aircraft has been used to disperse pesticides or herbicides it shall be supplied clean and odor free. The retardant tank(s) shall be cleaned in accordance with Federal Insecticide Fungicide Rodenticide Act (1969) (FIFRA) Regulations.

(See Section J, Exhibit 1)

(d) Non-mission Essential Equipment

(1) Non-mission essential equipment stored in the aircraft during firefighting missions will be limited to crew baggage, technician baggage (as applicable), essential ground support equipment, minimum essential consumable liquids and spare parts not to exceed 1 percent of the maximum operating/takeoff weight

(2) Equipment stored in the aircraft shall be securely stored to prevent movement in flight (bungee cords are not acceptable).

(3) All mission essential equipment shall be documented in the aircraft weight and balance records.

C-5 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE

(a) General

(1) Aircraft shall be maintained in accordance with all applicable 14 CFR requirements.

Mandatory Manufacturer’s Service Bulletins (SBs) and Airworthiness Directives (AD) shall be complied with during the contract period of performance. Ex-military aircraft shall comply with all civil aircraft model equivalent Airworthiness Directives.

(2) Special equipment and/or modification of the aircraft to meet the specifications of this contract shall be inspected, repaired, and altered in accordance with 14 CFR requirements and manufacturer's recommendations or engineering data and be FAA approved.

(3) Unless authorized by an approved MEL, aircraft shall not be approved or used if any accessory or instrument is inoperative. Equipment required by this contract may not be deferred under the MEL, except for non-revenue ferry flights.

(4) All mandatory component retirement, replacement or overhaul times shall be adhered to as specified in the OEM Airworthiness Limitations Section or equivalent OEM document. FAA approved extensions, if applicable to items identified in the required Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) required by Exhibit 2, paragraph D, is not allowed under any circumstances.

(5) Contract performance may subject the aircraft engine to frequent smoke, sand, and dust ingestion. All aircraft shall comply with the erosion inspection procedures at the recommended intervals in accordance with the engine operation and maintenance manual for the contracted aircraft.

(6) Maintenance of aircraft shall be recorded in accordance with 14 CFR Part 43 and Part 91 including aircraft time-in-service. Aircraft maintenance records shall be in accordance with the FAA Advisory Circular (AC) No. 43-9C as revised.

(7) A flight log similar to that required by 14 CFR 135.65(a) shall be kept with the aircraft. The log will contain the minimum items identified in Section J, Exhibit 14.

(8) Aircraft records and manuals shall be available to agency inspectors. See Section J, Exhibit 14.

(9) Aircraft shall be weighed and configured as an airtanker within 30 days of being offered, and every 36 months thereafter. Exhibit 20 Form B is required. The aircraft shall also be weighed following any major repair or major alteration or change to the equipment list which significantly affects the center of gravity of the aircraft (see Exhibit 20 Form C).

(10) All weighing of aircraft shall be performed on scales that have been certified as accurate within the previous year (12 months).

The certifying entity may be any accredited weights and measures laboratory using standards traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The scales should be listed by make model and calibration date in the aircrafts weight and balance documentation (See Form B, Exhibit 20).

(11) An Equipment List shall be compiled for each offered aircraft. Weight and balance records shall be revised each time equipment is removed or installed. (A list of equipment installed in the aircraft at the time of weighing shall be compiled. The equipment list shall include the name, weight, arm and moment of each item installed.

Items that may be easily removed or installed for aircraft configuration changes (seats, radios, special mission equipment, etc.) shall also be listed including the name, weight, arm and moment of each item. Each page of the equipment list shall identify the specific aircraft by serial and registration number. Each page of the equipment list shall be dated indicating the last date of actual weighing or computation. The weight and balance shall be revised each time equipment is removed or installed which more than negligibly affects the center of gravity of the aircraft. See Exhibit 20 for an acceptable example.

(12) The CO shall be notified and a revised weight and balance record shall be submitted to the CO when an aircraft’s empty weight changes by +1% or more.

(13) Contractors may request a total of five (5) days of break in service for scheduled maintenance during the MAP. These breaks may or may not be consecutive and shall be scheduled with the Government’s concurrence. End dates for the MAP will be adjusted if any days are used. If the entire calendar day is not used to perform maintenance, no credit of that unused time shall be granted.

(b) Structural Integrity Program

Refer to Section J, Exhibit 2. This Exhibit contains critical information regarding engineering, maintenance, inspection, and data collection and monitoring required by this contract.

(1) The maximum Time Since Rebuild or Time Since Overhaul (TSR/TSO) permitted on any engine installed on a contract airtanker shall not exceed the manufacturer’s approved or recommended times nor be operated when the efficiency becomes less than 95%.

(2) Extensions to maximum engine TSR/TSO must be approved by the FAA, provided the Contractor who provides the aircraft is the holder of the extension authorization (not the owner if the aircraft is leased), and shall operate in accordance with the extension.

(3) Each engine shall have at least 100 hours remaining before any overhaul or hot section inspection at the start of the Pre-Season (Mandatory) or shall be “backed-up” by a substitute engine having more than 100 hours remaining and installed in a QEC (Quick Engine Change) unit.

Note: QEC unit is defined as the engine complete with engine mount, accessories, and the necessary wiring and tubing assembled in such a manner that it can be installed on the aircraft in a minimum amount of time. A QEC unit need not have the cowling or propeller installed to be a complete unit. Maintenance records that meet 14 CFR Part 91 shall be kept with the QEC unit.

(4) A "Hot Section" inspection will not be considered as an overhaul on any turbojet or turboprop engine unless so specified by the manufacturer of the engine.

(5) Engine/propeller records shall be certified and appropriately-rated (14 CFR Part 43.3) or military authority; and shall be made available for inspection upon request.

Engines removed from storage (unsealed - 2 years; sealed - 5 years, or greater) shall be inspected for rust and corrosion, compliance with ADs, and attested airworthy by a certified power plant mechanic prior to entering service.

(d) Parts

Replacement parts shall be approved under 14 CFR 21.9 and shall have FAA, Military or OEM documentation. Parts that have been rebuilt, overhauled, inspected, modified, repaired, or tested shall have a maintenance release document signed by an appropriately certificated person qualified for the relevant function that signifies that the item has been returned to service.

(e) Maintenance Flights

A functional maintenance flight shall be performed following overhaul, repair, and/or replacement of any engine, power train, or flight control equipment, and following any adjustment of the flight control systems before the aircraft is returned to service. The flight shall be performed at the Contractor’s expense along with the associated fuel. Results of the maintenance flights shall be reported to and approved by the USFS Maintenance Inspector before the aircraft is returned to Contract Availability.

C-6 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED AVIONICS SYSTEMS

(a) MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

All avionics used to meet this agreement shall comply with the requirements of paragraph (b)

AVIONICS SPECIFICATIONS and paragraph (c) AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND

MAINTENANCE STANDARDS. The following are the minimum avionics which shall be installed.

Airtankers

(1) Two VHF-AM Radios (COM 1 & COM 2)

(2) One VHF-FM Radio (FM)

(3) An Intercom System (ICS) for the PIC, SIC, and Pilot Inspector

(4) The ICS system shall have a keyed capability unless normal conversation can be maintained in the cockpit during flight

(5) Separate and interchangeable Audio Control systems for the PIC and SIC

(6) A spare headset with mic within reach of the PIC or Flight Engineer

(7) A Drop Cord is preferred, but not required, for the Pilot Inspector position

(8) One Aeronautical Global Positioning System (GPS)

(9) An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT)

(10) An Automated Flight Following system (AFF)

(11) An Additional Telemetry Unit (ATU)

(12) One Mode S Diversity Transponder

(13) One Altimeter and Automatic Pressure Altitude Reporting system

(14) A Traffic Advisory System (TAS)

(15) One RADAR Altimeter

(16) A Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)

(17) Two VOR systems

(18) One Localizer system

(19) One Glideslope system interfaced to the #1 Localizer

(20) One Three Light Marker Beacon system

(21) One DME system unless the GPS is certified and maintained for use in IFR conditions

(22) Each Magnetic compass shall be calibrated and placarded in no more than 30 degree increments

(23) ADS-B OUT will be required beginning January 1st 2020

(b) AVIONICS SPECIFICATIONS

All avionics used to meet this agreement shall comply with the following requirements and paragraph (c) AVIONICS INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS.

(1) Communications systems

Transmitters shall not open squelch on, or interfere with, other AM or FM transceivers on the aircraft which are monitoring different frequencies. Transmit interlock functions shall not be used with communication transceivers.

(i) VHF-AM Radios

VHF-AM radios shall be TSO approved aeronautical transceivers, permanently installed, and operate in the frequency band of 118.000 to 136.975 MHz with a minimum of 760 channels in no greater than 25 KHz increments. Transmitters shall have a minimum of 5 Watts carrier output power.

(ii) VHF-FM Radios

All aircraft approved for fire operations shall use P25 Digital VHF-FM transceivers meeting the specifications of FS/OAS A-19. FM radios used in all aircraft shall be agency approved. FS/OAS A-19 and a list of currently approved

FM radios can be found on the following website:

http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html . The following requirements shall be met.

(A) VHF-FM radios shall be aeronautical transceivers, permanently installed in a location that is convenient to the PIC and SIC/observer, and operate in the frequency band of 138 to 174 MHz. All usable frequencies shall be programmable in flight. Narrowband and digital operation shall be selectable by channel for both MAIN and GUARD operation. Carrier output power shall be 6-10 Watts nominal.

(B) Transceivers shall have a GUARD capability constantly monitoring

168.625 MHz and have a tone of 110.9 on all GUARD transmissions.

Simultaneous monitoring of MAIN and GUARD is required. Scanning of

GUARD is not acceptable. Aircraft not approved for Air Tactical operation only require one FM GUARD receiver.

(C) Transceivers shall have the capability of encoding CTCSS sub audible tones on all channels. A minimum of 32 tones meeting the current TIA/EIA-603A standards shall be selectable.

(D) Transceivers shall have the capability to display both receiver and transmitter frequencies. Activation indicators for transmit and receive shall be provided for both MAIN and GUARD operation.

(E) The radio shall use an external broadband antenna covering the frequency band of 138 to 174 MHz (Comant CI-177-1 or equivalent).

(2) Audio Systems

(i) Intercom systems (ICS)

ICS shall integrate with the aircraft audio control systems and mix with selected receiver audio. An ICS volume control and a “hot mic” capability shall be provided for the PIC and SIC. Passenger volume adjustments shall not affect the

PIC. Hot mic may be voice activated (VOX) or controlled via an activation switch.

The PIC shall have an isolation capability.

(ii) Audio Control systems

(A) General http://www.nifc.gov/NIICD/documents.html

Controls for transmitter selection and independent receiver selection of all required radios shall be provided for each required audio control system.

Each system shall have the capability to simultaneously select and utilize a different transceiver. Sidetone shall be provided for the user as well as for cross monitoring by all installed systems. Receiver audio shall be automatically selected when the corresponding transmitter is selected.

Receiver audio shall be provided to each position which requires ICS. Aft audio control systems are not required to provide NAV audio.

All required passenger positions shall utilize the SIC/observer’s audio control system unless an aft audio control system is installed. Drop cords may be used provided MS3112E10-6S type 6-pin connectors are installed adjacent to the required passenger headset jacks and wired for compatibility with an appropriate drop cord (Alpine Aerotech AAL280 series or equivalent).

Audio controls shall be labeled as COM-1, FM-1, AUX, PA etc… as appropriate or as COM-1, COM-2, COM-3, etc… with the corresponding transceiver labeled to match. Audio shall be free of distortion, noise, or crosstalk. The system shall be designed for use with 600 ohm earphones and carbon equivalent, noise cancelling, boom type microphones. All required positions shall have JJ-033 and JJ-034 type microphone and headphone jacks separated by no more than 4 inches. Cockpit speakers shall be sufficiently amplified for use in flight.

Crew positions shall have radio Push-To-Talk (PTT) switches on their respective flight controls or a panel location convenient to the user.

(B) Drop Cord Requirements (when provided)

(1) Coil cord with sufficient length to provide unrestricted movement according to mission requirements (Minimum 3 feet retracted)

(2) 6-Pin MS3476L10-6P type connector on the coil cord

(3) JJ-033 and JJ-034 type headset jacks at the housing

(4) Large clip

(5) Volume control

(6) ICS switch with momentary and lock positions

(7) Radio PTT switch (only for positions which require radio transmit)

The audio controller shall be installed in a location that provides the operator unobstructed access to the controls while seated.

(D) Required Audio Control systems

The following audio control systems are required.

(1) Two separate audio control systems for the PIC and SIC. These shall be identical individual units.

(3) Navigation systems

(i) Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

(A) Aeronautical GPS

Each required GPS shall be TSO approved, permanently installed where both the PIC and SIC/observer can clearly view the display, use an approved external aircraft antenna, and be powered by the aircraft electrical system. The GPS shall utilize the WGS-84 datum, reference coordinates in the DM (degrees/minutes/decimal minutes) format and have the ability to manually enter waypoints in flight. The GPS navigation database shall be updated annually covering the geographic areas where the aircraft will operate.

(B) (Reserved)

(4) Surveillance systems

(i) Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELT)

Emergency locator transmitters shall be automatic-fixed, installed in a conspicuous or marked location, and meet the requirements detailed in 14 CFR

91.207 (excluding section f). ELT antennas shall be mounted externally to the aircraft unless installed in a location approved by the aircraft manufacturer. TSO

C91a or newer ELTs are required. TSO C126 and newer ELTs require documentation of current registration from the national authority for which the aircraft is registered.

(ii) Automated Flight Following systems (AFF)

Automated flight following systems shall be compatible with the government’s tracking program (AFF.gov), utilize satellite communications, and use aircraft power via a dedicated circuit breaker. AFF shall be functional in all phases of flight and in all geographic areas where the aircraft will operate. The following additional requirements shall be met.

(A) A subscription service shall be maintained through the equipment provider allowing position reporting via the Government AFF Program.

The reporting interval shall be every two minutes once powered on, while on the ground or in flight.

(B) AFF equipment shall be registered with AFF.gov providing all requested information. Changes to equipment and registration information shall be reported to AFF.gov ensuring the program is current prior to aircraft use. For assistance, the Fire Applications Help Desk

(FAHD) may be reached at (866) 224-7677 or (360) 326-6002.

(C) An AFF operational test shall be performed prior to the annual compliance inspection. This test shall ensure that the system meets all requirements and is displayed in the AFF viewer with the correct information. A user name and password are required. Registration and additional information are available at https://www.aff.gov/ .

(D) If AFF becomes unreliable the aircraft may, at the discretion of the

Government, remain available for service utilizing radio/voice systems for flight following. The system shall be returned to full operational capability within 5 calendar days after the system is discovered to be unreliable.

(E) This clause incorporates the Specific Section Supplement available at https://www.aff.gov/contractspecs.asp as if it was presented as full text herein.

(F) For questions about current compatibility requirements contact the

AFF…

This is the start of the file's text. The full file is on GovTribe.

File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated Nov 14, 2017.