W56KJD-13-R-0020-0002.pdf

PRC2MR31K00300

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30-105-04EXCEPTION TO SF 30

APPROVED BY OIRM 11-84

STANDARD FORM 30 (Rev. 10-83) Prescribed by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

Amendment No. 0002 to Solicitation No. W56KJD-13-R-0020 is issued to:

A. Provide the Government's responses to questions submitted by industry.

B. Revise the Performance Work Statement.

See 'Summary of Changes' for details. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged and in full effect.

1. CONTRACT ID CODE PAGE OF PAGES

S 1 57

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

16C. DATE SIGNED

BY 01-Jul-2013

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA15C. DATE SIGNED15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of Contracting Officer)(Signature of person authorized to sign)

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., Street, County, State and Zip Code) X W56KJD-13-R-0020

X 9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

06-Jun-2013

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

X The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offer is extended, X is not extended.

Offer must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning 1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required)

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS.

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE

CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(B).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not, is required to sign this document and return copies to the issuing office.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

10A. MOD. OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO.(If applicable)

6. ISSUED BY

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

01-Jul-2013

CODE

GENERAL SUPPORT CONTRACTING CENTER GSCC

BUILDING SR-5

CAMP PHOENIX

APO AE 09320

W56KJD 7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than item 6)

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.

CODE

See Item 6

FACILITY CODECODE

EMAIL:TEL:

W56KJD-13-R-0020

SECTION SF 30 BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

SECTION SF 30 - BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

The following have been added by full text:

AMENDMENT NO. 0002 QUESTIONS

The following questions have been submitted in response to the solicitation, accompanied with Government responses:

Question from Industry Government’s Response

1 ‘CARB Page 39 Point 3.2.4 says that the “Contractor shall be an approved DoD carrier…….” This is going to be problematic since the Rotor Wing aircraft are specified as being MI17 or equivalent and there is (as far as I am aware) only one operator in the world who is CARB certified to operate MI8/MI17 helicopters. In addition since the AN24/AN32s don’t hold US type certification it is unlikely that any operators will be CARB certified on the Medium F/W aircraft. Could you please clarify’

‘Section 3.2.4 – CARB compliance – the SOW refers to the contractor requiring CARB compliance of all proposed airframes.

However, the airframes cited as examples in the SOW are not commonly CARB compliant, and none are extant in CRAF air fleets. Is the vendor required to have all proposed airframes expected and compliant for CARB regulations (DoD 4500.53) prior to start of work on any task order? Will the government provide CARB inspections in Afghanistan, or will the airframes have to be relocated for such compliance inspections to occur?’

‘Section 1.2.3 – Contracted Aircraft Characteristics – in this section, the government lists four different airframes, three of which are non-US built airframes that are not commonly part of CRAF fleets, US Flag Carriers, or are found as being CARB-compliant. In addition, the listing for the suggested rotary wing airframe is the Mi-17. Yet in Section 3.2.7, the stated requirement for the Rotary Wing airframe is 8 passengers with baggage, or 3,000 lbs cargo. The Mi-17 is capable of up to 30 passengers and close to 9000 lbs in cargo. Would a Mi-8 be a suitable airframe to meet the requirements of this RFP, as it is more in line with the stated characteristics?’

‘Request clarification on the aircraft identified with the "or equivalent". The aircraft identified in this paragraph do not match the performance requirements identified in PWS paragraphs 3.2.7,

3.3.8 and 3.3.9.’

‘Request clarification on Light F/W aircraft. Paragraph 1.2.3 identifies a C-208 or equivalent. The C-208 is a single engine aircraft. CARB requires a dual engine aircraft. Single engine is allowed by exception only.’

The Department of Defense (DOD), as a customer of airlift services, expects an air carrier or operator soliciting for or doing business with the DOD to engage in quality programs and business practices that not only ensure good service but enhance the safety, operational, and maintenance standards established by the applicable Civil Aviation Agency Regulations (CARs).

Accordingly, and as required by US Public Law 99-661, the DOD has established a set of air carrier quality and safety requirements that reflect the type programs and practices the DOD seeks from air carriers or operators airlifting DOD resources.

Regarding CARB compliance, Section

1.2.3. of the PWS has been removed.

The Government will not require the contractor to propose a Mi-17, AN-26 or AN-32 or C-208. In order to be considered acceptable, the offeror must follow the performance specifications detailed throughout the PWS, specifically those in sections 3.2. & 3.3, when considering which aircraft it intends to propose in response to this solicitation.

2 ‘Positioning Option Years 1 and 2 (2nd and 3rd contract year) CLINs 1002, 1003, 1004, 2002, 2003 and 2004 are for positioning charges for the three classes of aircraft for Option Years 1 and 2.

Since by definition in order to exercise the options presumably the aircraft would already be positioned should these CLINS be ignored or entered as zero values, or is there a circumstance in which you anticipate these CLINs requiring to be quoted on and if so what would those circumstances be.’

The Government intends to award (a) Firm Fixed-Price Indefinite Delivery /

Indefinite Quantity contract(s) resulting from solicitation W56KJD-13-R-0020.

In order to accomplish the work identified in the Performance Work

Statement (PWS), the Government will issue a Request for Task Order Proposal (RFTOP) to the successful awardee(s) for each aircraft category following award of the IDIQ. The Government reserves the right to award more than IDIQ for each category of aircraft. In this case, it is possible, that one contractor may not be awarded a Task

Order in the Base Year. Thus, an offeror is required to provide prices for all

CLINs in a aircraft category. Regarding the depositioning CLINs, the

Government reserves the right to order the contractor to remove their aircraft from Afghanistan as required. If a contractor has positioned aircraft in country and has been ordered to remove those aircraft via a Task Order and is subsequently awarded another Task

Order, both positioning and depositioning CLINs will be required.

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2.

3 ‘Page 31, Point 5 notes that non-premium war risk would potentially be available to US flag carriers. We hold a US Part 135 certificate but since two of the aircraft types specified (the

MI17 and AN26 or AN32) do not hold US certification I presume this would not apply to offers related to these aircraft types.’

Para 1.2.3 of the PWS has been reserved. The Government will not require the contractor to propose a Mi- 17, AN-26 or AN-32 or C-208. PWS

1.2.3. is reserved. In order to be considered acceptable, the offeror must follow the performance specifications detailed throughout the PWS, specifically those in sections 3.2. & 3.3, when considering which aircraft it intends to propose in response to this solicitation.

4 ‘Page 34 Point 1.2.3 notes the “Light FW” as C208 or equivalent……a single engine aircraft, however Page 73 under Fixed Wing Minimum Requirements in the 4th bullet point it notes that “The Offeror shall provide a detailed plan on how it proposes to provide fixed wing aircraft on the date requested that is multi-engine, fixed wing and fully instrument/equipped to fly under Instrument Flight Rules”

a. Firstly Since the C208 is a single engine aircraft it would not meet this requirement

b. Secondly operating in Afghanistan in a single engine non pressurized aircraft is probably not a very wise move

The Government will not require the contractor to propose a Mi-17, AN-26 or AN-32 or C-208. In order to be considered acceptable, the offeror must follow the performance specifications detailed throughout the PWS, specifically those in sections 3.2. & 3.3, when considering which aircraft it intends to propose in response to this solicitation.

We would prefer to quote on something like a [Redacted] for safety reasons

5 ‘The solicitation appears to envisage seven F/W aircraft in both the medium and the light category, but it looks like it is expected that we will only do 150 hours per month in each of the categories of F/W, or 21.5 hours per aircraft per month. This would be a very low utilization and would probably be uneconomical. Can you clarify the number of F/WQ airframes required and the expected utilization.’

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2.

6 ‘Page 39 Point 3.3.10 says that if the aircraft provided is unable to carry the required number of passengers on the AMR at the time of take-off due to previously known environmental conditions then the fixed rate price for that leg shall be reduced by the % of passengers not allowed on board. This is not reasonable since it is entirely possible, if not, in certain cases, probable that the aircraft types specified in this solicitation would not be able to carry the payloads specified due to certain combinations of altitude, temperature, availability of fuel (or lack thereof at certain destinations) and runway conditions. This would on occasions place the contractor in the position of being penalized for operating safely.’

Please refer to PWS 2.3.4.1, 2.3.4.5 and

2.3.6. The Government will not require

the contractor to perform un-safe missions. The contractor is required to plan missions in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract with the Contracting Officer’s Representative, or other designated missioning activity, during all phases of the mission, to include mission planning.

7 ‘Page 38 Point 2.3.4.6 says “For the contractor to refuse to fly a transport mission due to marginal weather conditions the weather must be such that the ceiling is below 700ft and visibility less than two nautical miles. Since most of the destinations listed have no published instrument approach procedure, and given that many of them are in mountainous terrain these specified limitation cannot be applied. For safety reasons the go/no go decision has to be in terms of the law, the operators manual of procedures and at all times be at the unfettered discretion of the captain.’

The PWS states in Para 2.2.1 that ‘aircrew shall remain on flight plan filed unless deviation for safety of flight is required’. We believe that the safety of flight would be addressed in the pre-planning stages for the flight. Please refer to PWS 2.3.4.5.

8 ‘In the table on Page 36 for CLIN 1002 says “Positioning if awarded 2 Medium Aircraft” in the second column and then only shows 1 under the 3rd column “Max Quantity”…………and similarly against CLIN 1013. Please could you explain this?’

The CLIN description of 1002 AA is for one aircraft, 1002 AB for two aircraft and 1002 AC for three aircraft. The

Government will utilize the price agreed under CLIN 1002 AB for two aircraft, however, this will be treated as ‘1 Lot’.

9 ‘On Page 45 Points 8.1 and 8.2 say “these missions will be within the borders of Afghanistan. One of the destinations listed under

1.2.1.2 on Page 34 is Dushanbe which is not within Afghanistan.

Could you please clarify.’

‘Identifies that missions will be within the borders of Afghanistan.

Paragraph 1.2.1.2 identifies Dushanbe as a destination. Please clarify.’

Please note, the contractor will not be required to fly to Dushanbe. PWS

1.2.1.2. has been amended.

10 a. ‘Could you please advise where each of the aircraft will be based out of. Point 8.2.1 on Page 45 says Home Base but has no information, and under aircraft workload near the bottom of Page 47 it says “Offer, as a minimum, one R/W aircraft positioned at Kabul or Jalalabad; Kandahar; and Shindad (only 3 machines)’

b. ‘I would like to submit a question regarding the subject solicitation. Reference Paragraph 8.2.1 of the Performance Work Statement – Please identify what is the location of the “home base” or will there be multiple home bases.’

a. The Request for Task Order Proposal will clearly identify the ‘home-base’ for the aircraft being requested. Please refer to PWS 8.2.1.

b. The Request for Task Order Proposal will clearly identify the ‘home-base’ for the aircraft being requested. Please refer to PWS 8.2.1. The Government

c. ‘What are the planned base locations for the R/W aircraft?’

d. ‘In reference to the SOW – there is no indication of a ‘Home Base’ for the aircraft requested. Will there be a requirement to keep aircraft at any single base, or can this be the choice of the contractor?’

e. ‘Request identification of location of aircraft by base. Assume there will be one RW at each of the MOB's identified. Where will the fourth be located?’

f. ‘Request identification of location of each aircraft type including quantity by each of the Air Wings, Fobs, and FAARPs.’

g. ‘Please clarify if the number of hours is by aircraft, aircraft type, location, or some other calculation.’

h. ‘Does not identify that there is a home base for R/W, nor where the location of home base will be located. Request clarification’

i. ‘Identifies that there will be a home base for F/W, but does not identify the location. Request clarification’ anticipates establishing multiple hub locations. Flights are intended to be routed as described in PWS 1.3.1

c. The Government anticipates establishing hubs (also called ‘home bases’) at the locations listed at PWS

1.1.

d. Ramp spaces and the services described in PWS 4.1 will be made available to the contractor at the location specified as ‘home base’, aka

‘hub’. This location will be stated on the Request for Task Order Proposal.

e. At this time, the Government cannot identify at exactly which bases the aircraft will be needed. Offerors should plan to utilize the locations at PWS 1.1 for basing purposes.

f. At this time, the Government cannot identify at exactly which bases the aircraft will be needed.

g. The Government anticipates requiring up to 380 hours of rotary wing service and up to 150 hours of fixed service per month as a total for all aircraft in accordance with PWS 1.2.4.

h & i. The Government anticipates establishing hubs at the locations listed at PWS 1.1.

11 ‘Will ramp space and accommodation and life support be provided at each of the bases of operation’

Ramp space will be made available to the successful offeror starting on 01

September 2013 at the location specified in the Request for Task Order

Proposal. The location will be one of the five (5) hubs identified in PWS 1.1.

Government Furnished Contractor

Support shall be afforded to the Contractor in accordance with Clause 952.225-0011 Government Furnished

Contractor Support (May 2012). Please refer to PWS 4.0

12 ‘According to [Redacted], the OPR for the Afghanistan Aviation Procedures guide (APG), the following guidance applies to commercial contract air carriers operating Afghanistan:

• The primary reference for DoD contract aircrew operating in Afghanistan is the Afghanistan Aviation

The requirement for a FCL has been removed. PWS 4.2.13. and 4.2.14. have been reserved.

Procedures Guide (APG) Version 1.0 dated 14 February 2012. The secondary references are the Afghan MoTCA Aeronautical Information Publications (AIP) Parts 1 - General, Part 2 - Enroute, and Part 3 - Aerodromes, all dated 26 July 2012. There is no, repeat no, standing classified reading requirement for contract aircrew.

• Para 1.11a. and b. was intended for military aircrew performing high risk combat and personnel recovery operations, not contract air performing administrative/logistics missions.

• Classified information for contract air missions will be disseminated to civilian aircrew through the Contracting Officer's Representative strictly on need to know basis.

Based on this guidance, will the government reconsider the PWS requirements for company FCL, personnel security clearances and company FSO, and thus delete these requirements?’

‘Section 4.2.13 and 4.2.14 – the requirements in these sections are contradictory. Section 4.2.13 requires that the bidding companies have a FCL – by definition, only a US-based/owned company can meet this requirement. Yet in 4.2.14, it is explicitly stated that non-US companies can provide proof of security clearance as per their own governmental regulations and requirements. Both of these requirements are seem to be overly restrictive for a effort that is providing support to ANSF personnel, and could preclude a competitive procurement. Questions:

a. Is a FCL required?

b. Can only US-based/owned companies be awarded a contract on this procurement?

c. If no, is the bidder base restricted to NATO-member country companies?

d. Are all personnel on this contract (flight crew, ground support, program management, administrative) required to have US DoD Secret level clearances (or equivalent)?’

‘PWS 4.2.14 ‘Which positions require a Secret Security Clearance and which a National Agency Check with Inquiry?’’

13 ‘FAR Par 47.402, Air Transportation by U.S. Flag Carriers, Policy states:

Federal employees and their dependents, consultants, contractors, grantees, and others must use U.S.-flag air carriers for U.S.

Government-financed international air travel and transportation of their personal effects or property, if available (Section 5 of the International Air Transportation Fair Competitive Practices Act of 1974 (49 U.S.C. 40118) (Fly America Act)).

The Fly America Preference is required by 49 U.S.C. 40118 http://uscode.house.gov/uscode-cgi/fastweb.exe?getdoc+uscview+t49t50+2+224++%2849%29%20%20AND%20%28%2849%29%20ADJ%20USC%29%3ACITE%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20

Based on the mission profiles contemplated under this contract effort (ie: augmentation of the Afghani Air Force for the transportation of Afghani nationals for operational purposes and not for the purpose of movement of personal effects or property), we do not see that the Fly America act applies to this activity.

Will the government reconsider the Fly America Act Preference and thus remove it from the Evaluation Criteria?’

14 ‘{REDACTED} don't have any experience in this port of air service charter and we don't have any air service license but we have international subcontractor which they have good experience, with professional technical staff and also the have international and Afghan Government air service license which can service in all our Afghanistan . can we do submit our proposal for this project.’

In accordance with FAR 12 and 15, this is a commercial procurement and provides for ‘full and open’ competition. The Government will accept all timely proposals submitted in accordance with the instructions at FAR 52.212-1 by the date and time specified in Block 8 of the SF 1449.

15 ‘Do we need to submit a separate RFTOP proposal?’

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2.

16 ‘Please verify that for HOGE performance proof we must account for the weight of the installed floor armor?’

Any Hover out of ground effect performance proof should include the weight of installed floor armor as described in para. 3.2.9 of the PWS as part of the basic aircraft weight and be provided at the parameters stated in PWS para. 3.2.7.

17 ‘We understand there are two performance capability data points to be met: one low altitude data point (at Mean Sea Level) and one high altitude data point (at 7000 ft PA). In order to ensure the government contracts an aircraft that is fully capable of meeting mission requirements at both data points, may we suggest a few adjustments to the parameters at each data point in order to fully define a realistic set of ambient conditions?

There are always two basic parameters that must be defined in order for the helicopter pilot to calculate lift capability:

temperature and pressure altitude. (for the purposes of this exercise pressure altitude and field elevation can be considered the same). Since aircraft lift performance is degraded by pressure altitude (elevation) and outside air temperature, a high ambient temperature criteria at a given elevation will ensure that aircraft will have adequate lift performance capability even on a hot summer day. With regard to elevation, please note that there are no sea level locations anywhere in Afghanistan. At 1,300 ft MSL, Mazar-e-Sharif is one of the lowest airfields in the country and would be a good example to use for a low altitude data point. The average high temperature at MeS in the summer is 35 degrees C.

For the high altitude data point, a good example airfield is Sharona, located at 7, 300 ft MSL. Average highs in the summer are 30 degrees C.

Given this information, will the government consider adjusting the performance capability data points in order to reflect these

The performance stated in PWS Para.

3.2.7 is a minimum standard. PWS para.

3.2.8 and 2.3.6. already make allowances for changing environmental conditions. Location criteria is available in Appendix B. Para. 2.2.4, and Para. 1.4.2.2 provide routing guidance for realistic mission planning.

The Government will not consider adjusting the performance capability.

more operationally realistic parameters?’

18 ‘in order to ensure aircraft are fully capable of executing their tasked missions, there should be a criteria added to both ambient condition data points that specifies desired flight range plus fuel reserve. As they are written, neither ambient condition data point includes a criteria for aircraft range, and therefore you may find that the resulting aircraft may be able to lift the required load yet not have enough fuel to go anywhere. May we suggest the government adds the following requirements into both ambient condition data points: Flight leg length of 250 nm plus a fuel reserve of 45 min at an altitude of 5000 ft?’

Location criteria are available in Appendix B. Para. 2.2.4, and Para.

1.4.2.2 provide routing guidance for realistic mission planning.

19 ‘RE Special Contract Requirements, 1. CLIN Information – 1a – the clause states that “CLINS 0002, 1002, 2002, 0003, 1003, 2003, 0004, 1004, and 2004… will not be paid until the aircraft are operational in Afghanistan.” Are these CLINs for mobilization of a/c to Afghanistan upon overall contract award and independent of any Task Order awards?’

‘RE Special Contract Requirements, 1a through 1d – the CLIN structure shows payment for a/c positioning and de-positioning is allowed – is this expected to occur per task order, or for the overall contract? Is the contractor responsibe for, and able to charge for, mobilization of a/c into and out of Afghanistan for EACH awarded task order?’

Please see the Special Contract requirements section of this solicitation.

These CLINs are for mobilization and de-mobilization of aircraft. The Government will utilize these CLINs in Requests for Task Order Proposals as deemed necessary by the Government.

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2.

20 ‘Request clarification on the need for this requirement. The information required appears to be a duplication of some information already contained in SPOT (Synchronized Predeployment and Operational Tracker). This is not a normal commercial requirement, and would not be required in commercial aviation operations.’

Contractor Manpower Reporting Requirements are different from the Synchronized Predeployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT). This requirement is not a duplication of

SPOT.

21 ‘States that military passenger and baggage are not normally routine missions. Request definition on normal routine missions.’

Please refer to revised PWS 1.3.1.

Flights are of a reactive nature and not necessarilly scheduled in advance of the

48 hour notification period.

22 ‘Request definition of Priority 2 and 3. Is there a Priority 1?

What is the significance of the priorities if the tasking's are both within 48 hours?’

Please refer to 1.4.1. The difference between the two types of priorities is that one refers to passengers and the other refers to cargo.

23 ‘Request clarification on inclusion of the bidding process as part of the Performance Work Statement. Does this indicate that the carriers will have to bid on opportunities while the aircraft are positioned in country? ‘

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2.

24 ‘Is the representative identified in this paragraph to be a separate individual from the Contracting Operations Officer (COO) identified later under paragraph 5.1.1?’

The person identified in PWS 1.4.3.3. is not required to be the COO, but may be at the contractor’s discretion.

25 ‘Request clarification on the last sentence in the paragraph, "contractor personnel shall appropriately identify themselves as"…..’

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.3.1.

26 ‘Does this paragraph [2.1.1] only apply to planning of missions to locations, or does this refer to life support as a requirement of the contractor?’

Please refer to PWS 4.0. The contractor will be responsible for procuring its own fuel for performance of this contract.

Please also refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2. The contractor will be provided life support in accordance with the information contained in the Request for Task Order

Proposals.

27 ‘[2.1.1 states that fuel must be procured via commercial means.

Please confirm the availability of fuel by location, to include a list of approved fuel vendors at each site that do not conflict with U.S.

Trade laws? These would be sources properly vetted by the U.S.

Government as not providing Iranian or other restricted countries fuel.’

A list of “approved” or “restricted” sources does not currently exist. Please see FAR 25 and DFARS 225 for information on prohibitions for foreign acquisitions.

28 ‘Does 952.225-0011 apply only to situations in which the contractor is required to Remain Overnight (RON)?’

No, the Government will provide services in accordance with PWS 4.0 and AI 952.225-0011 and as specified in the Request for Task Order Proposals following award of the IDIQs.

29 PWS 2.2.7 ‘References "theater and users search and rescue capabilities". What are theater capabilities?’

PWS 2.2.7 is revised to reference the requirements of Civil Aviation Regulations IRoA Part 7 – Instruments and Equipment and ICAO Annex 10 Vol 3.

All aircraft on all flights shall be equipped with an automatically activated ELT that transmit simultaneously on 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz, and meet the technical standards specified by the Authority and the relevant portions of ICAO Annex 10, Volume 3.

30 PWS 2.2.8 ‘Requirement states, "Aircraft movement messages shall be transmitted in the clear." Doesn't this endanger operations?’

No, it does not endanger operations. All aircraft movement transmissions, including coalition military aircraft, are made in the clear to ground, tower and air traffic control agencies in accordance with ACAR and ICAO standards.

31 ‘Request clarification of screening requirements. Is screening to be consistent with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requirements?’

‘Passenger, baggage, and cargo security screening at non-military sites is the responsibility of the contractor. Must the security screening requirements comply with FAA/TSA standards if the contractor is operating on a U.S. certificate?’

Please refer to PWS 2.3.2. The contractor should not assume that the screening is consistent with the Transportation Security Administration

Requirements.

32 PWS 2.3.2.6, ‘Request definition of sensitive cargo’ Arms, ammunition, and explosives that are a definite threat to public safety and can be used by militant, revolutionary, criminal, or other elements for civil disturbances, domestic unrest, or criminal actions. Cargo whose nature and presence if viewed by personnel without proper level of clearance could impact mission accomplishment and affect national security. Cargo designated as having characteristics requiring them to be identified, accounted for, secured, segregated, or handled in a special manner to ensure their safety or integrity. Usually divided into sensitive, pilferable, and controlled cargo. Cargo which requires additional control and security as prescribed in various regulations and statutes. Please refer to PWS 2.3.2.6.

33 Regarding ACAR Part 1-11, ‘Please provide more details on this requirement.’

This is the Afghanistan Civil Aviation Regulations (ACAR). Please see http://www.motca.gov.af for more information.

34 ‘Is BPS required on the first day or operation or will allowance be provided for time required for sourcing and installation of BPS.

BPS is not a standard aircraft required for commercial airlift operations.’

BPS must be provided for on the aircraft tendered for use under this contract in accordance with PWS 3.4. BPS will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 52.212-2.

35 ‘What is the role of the Mail Movement in Charge Officer relative to the requirements of this contract?’

This requirement has been removed from PWS 3.4.1.

36 ‘Request definition of JSC-A’ Joint Sustainment Command – Afghanistan. Please note, the requiring activity for this procurement is NATO Training Mission Afghanistan (NTM-A) / Combined Security Transition Command – Afghanistan (CSTC-A)

37 PWS 3.5.3 ‘Please provide clarification on this requirement.

What is the contractor required to do? What is the relevance to the aircrew and maintenance personnel certifications.’

This requirement has been reserved.

38 PWS 4.0 ‘Request clarification of this section. Does not specifically identify what the Government will be providing to the contractor, but identifies several items that the Government will not provide, and identifies several areas of responsibility of the contractor. Request clarification on permanent ramp space, life support, hangar space, ground support equipment, and any other resource that will be provided to the contractors.’

Reference revisions to section 4.0 in the

PWS.

39 PWS 4.1.3. ‘Does this mean that the Gov't will not provide life support?’

No. The government will provide life support in accordance with Section 4.0 of the PWS, AI 952.225-0011 and as specified on the request for Task Order Proposals.

40 PWS 4.2.9 ‘Request clarification on identification of the PM. Is this the same as the COR, or is this a separate individual.’

Please note revision. Release of any information related to performance of this contract must be approved by the

COR.

41 PWS 4.2.10 and 4.2.13 ‘Identifies that there is a DD254. Request a copy of this document.’

Please note, this requirement is reserved.

http://www.motca.gov.af/

42 PWS 4.2.16. ‘Request identification of specific COMSEC equipment that will be required of or in in the possession of the contractor.’

This requirement has been reserved.

43 ‘Request clarification of the requirement that the COO be able to communicate in English and Dari, both orally and in writing.

This is a unique skill set combined with the aviation scheduling and program management abilities. Is this a firm requirement, or will a translator be sufficient? Why was this dialect selected and not also Pashto?’

‘Objectives identifies that the key personnel read, write, and speak English with 24/7 availability. Previously paragraph 5.1.1 required the COO or PM to be able to communicate in English and Dari, both orally and in writing. Request clarification.’

A COO must be able to communicate in both Engligh and Dari, or be accompanied by a translator for the purpose of effectively communicating in Dari. The Government requirement is for effective communication in Dari.

See PWS 5.1.1.

44 PWS 5.1.2 and 5.1.3 ‘All aircraft loading and unloading will be coordinated by the contractor prior to aircraft destination arrival.

Any additional costs for said services will be paid by the contractor and should be considered in the cost flight hour.’

This section only refers to the contractor’s requirement to coordinate the loading and unloading of passengers and cargo. All screening and loading procedures are outlined in the PWS section 2.3.

45 PWS 5.2.2. ‘Identifies that aircrew certifications are to be submitted as part of the proposal. Is this a requirement of the initial proposal for the MAIDIQ, or is this a requirement for each RFTOP proposal? The Proposal instructions do not identify a requirement to submit aircrew certifications on pages 66 and 67.’

Aircrew certifications will be a requirement for each Request for Task Order Proposal after award of IDIQ.

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2.

46 PWS 5.2.2. ‘Appendix E is the AMR. Is there another Appendix that is the monthly report?’

Please refer to Appendix D

47 PWS 5.2.3 ‘Paragraph requires submission of an aircraft performance summary for every aircraft being flown as part of the proposal. Requested information is not consistent with the required Aircraft Technical Capability Requirement on page 67 of the proposal instructions. Request clarification on what is required for the proposal. Is there a frequency?’

Please refer to revised requiremens in PWS 3.3. and 3.4.

48 PWS 5.2.7. ‘Who is IJC Air? Where is this organization located, and how is notification provided to the organization?’

Please refer to revised reporting requirement in PWS 5.2.7; IJC Air has been replaced by NTM-A/CSTC-A.

49 PWS 6.3. ‘What is the inspection? When does it occur? Who is performing the inspection? What is the purpose of the inspection?’

This section was reserved from the

PWS.

50 ‘Aircraft shall comply with all ICAO requirements of the Afghanistan Civil Aviation Regulations, whichever is the governing document for aircraft identification and call signs.

Request clarification.’

Aircraft identification and call sign requirements are governed by Afghanistan Civil Aviation Regulations and the Afghanistan Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP). Please refer to PWS 2.2.6.

51 ‘Will NTM-A/CSTC-A escorts be provided for all flights with Afghan military passengers?’

There are no guaranteed escorts provided by the Government. NTM- A/CSTC-A may provide escorts at its sole discretion. PWS 2.2.10 requires that the contractor fly NTM-A/CSTC-A escorts if they are manifested on the

AMR.

52 ‘Cargo loaded at certain locations will be screened by USG/Coalition Security Forces. Will the contractor provide these services at all other locations?’

All screening and loading procedures are outlined in the PWS section 2.3.

53 PWS 3.3.10 ‘Does "Environmental Conditions" in this paragraph refer to Performance Planning Criteria limiting numbers of passengers or is it the Cabin Environment limitations (i.e., broken seat, seat belt)?’

It refers to Performance Planning Criteria limiting numbers of passengers.

54 ‘What are the planned base locations for the R/W aircraft?’

Reference: PWS Para 1.4.3

Please review PWS 1.4.3.1.2. The Government will identify base locations for aircraft in the Requests for Task Order Proposals following award of the

IDIQs.

55 ‘Do we need to submit a separate RFTOP proposal?’

Reference: PWS Para 3.4.1

If an offeror is awarded an IDIQ contract, the contractor will submit proposals in response to the Government’s Request for Task Order

Proposals.

56 ‘Please verify that for HOGE performance proof we must account for the weight of the installed floor armor?’

Reference: PWS Para 3.2.7

See Question #16

57 ‘We understand there are two performance capability data points to be met: one low altitude data point (at Mean Sea Level) and one high altitude data point (at 7000 ft PA). In order to ensure the government contracts an aircraft that is fully capable of meeting mission requirements at both data points, may we suggest a few adjustments to the parameters at each data point in order to fully define a realistic set of ambient conditions?

There are always two basic parameters that must be defined in order for the helicopter pilot to calculate lift capability:

temperature and pressure altitude. (for the purposes of this exercise pressure altitude and field elevation can be considered the same). Since aircraft lift performance is degraded by pressure altitude (elevation) and outside air temperature, a high ambient temperature criteria at a given elevation will ensure that aircraft will have adequate lift performance capability even on a hot summer day. With regard to elevation, please note that there are no sea level locations anywhere in Afghanistan. At 1,300 ft MSL, Mazar-e-Sharif is one of the lowest airfields in the country and would be a good example to use for a low altitude data point. The average high temperature at MeS in the summer is 35 degrees C.

For the high altitude data point, a good example airfield is Sharona, located at 7, 300 ft MSL. Average highs in the summer are 30 degrees C.

Given this information, will the government consider adjusting the performance capability data points in order to reflect these more operationally realistic parameters?’

See Question #17

58 ‘Again, in order to ensure aircraft are fully capable of executing their tasked missions, there should be a criteria added to both ambient condition data points that specifies desired flight range plus fuel reserve. As they are written, neither ambient condition data point includes a criteria for aircraft range, and therefore you may find that the resulting aircraft may be able to lift the required load yet not have enough fuel to go anywhere. May we suggest the government adds the following requirements into both ambient condition data points: Flight leg length of 250 nm plus a fuel reserve of 45 min at an altitude of 5000 ft?’

See Question #18

59 ‘Must contractor employ translators?’

Please review PWS 5.1.1. The Government requires that contractor be able to communicate in Dari. The Contractor’s Contract Operations Officer is not required to speak;

however, the contractor must be able to provide a person that can speak Dari.

60 ‘Dushanbe is in Tajikistan, but the RFP states in a numbers of different places that all flying is to points within Afghanistan (example paragraph 8.2). Please clarify.’

Please note, the contractor will not be required to fly to Dushanbe; all missions will take place within the borders of Afghanistan.

61 ‘Please advise what security measures/systems the contractor should have in place to file secure flight plans with airport authorities. What equipment is provided by the USG personnel?’

Refer to section 4.0 in the PWS. There are no extra security measures/systems equipment required. In accordance with PWS 1.4.2.3. Flight Plans will be filed with the appropriate airport authorities.

This will involve filing the flight plan in person.

62 ‘How is the contractor to project the aircraft proposed is capable of having enough fuel, if the estimated range/hours per mission are not provided?’

Please review PWS 1.4.3.1.2. Following award of Task Order, the contractor and the Contracting Officer’s Representative will review the Air Movement Request in the planning process of the flight to ensure that the flight is operated safely.

Contractors will be provided Air Movement Requests 48 hours in advance of the flight to ensure proper planning is conducted.

63 ‘what is the standard for preboard/preload screening of passengers and cargo? This provision states the contract should factor the cost into cost per flight hour cost. Other provisions indicate that the USG will provide at some of the locations. Please advise what is the standard, and what locations the contractor should use to factor the cost.’

Please reference PWS, 2.3.2.2. The government is not mandating a minimum screening standard for contractor-provided preboard/preload screening at the airfields. Contractors are permitted to utilize screening services available at airfields or may use their own screening procedures.

64 ‘this paragraph requires 85% reliability, but the chart on page

47/137 and 50/137 states that contractor must have 100% availability’

Refer to PWS 3.8 for 80% operational readiness rate and PWS 2.3.3 for 85% scheduled reliability rate.

65 ‘2.3.4.6, page 38 of 137: Missions not completed due to poor weather will be rescheduled at the satisfaction of the USG in accordance with paragraph 2.3.4.2. For the contractor to refuse to fly a transport mission due to marginal weather conditions, the

PWS section 2.3.4.5: Ceiling restrictions are subject to change as dictated by threat analysis AND

AIRFIELD CAPABILITIES.

weather must be such that the ceiling is below 700 feet and visibility less than two nautical miles. Ceiling restrictions are subject to change as dictated by threat analysis

Question: this weather standard is well below VFR minimums for fixed wing aircraft. Please clarify.’

The requirement for FW aircraft as stated in PWS 3.3.7 is for a multi-engine (or single engine for Light Lift), fixed wing aircraft fully instrument/equipped to fly under

INSTRUMENT FLIGHT RULES

(IFR).

66 ‘Para 3.3.3, page 39 of 137: should “and/or” be changed to “and”?’

Please review revised PWS 3.3.3

67 ‘Para 3.3.7, page 39 of 37: this paragraph states that all aircraft must be multi-engine, but paragraph 1.2.3 and the chart on page 46/137 state that the light aircraft should be equivalent to a C208, which is a single engine aircraft. Is a single engine aircraft acceptable? If so, 3.3.7 must be altered.’

Please note, PWS 1.2.3 has been reserved.

68 ‘Para 3.6.3, page 40 of 137: Please define the term “solid loading”.’

The term “solid loading” was removed.

69 ‘Para, 4.1.3, page 41 of 137: All materials, to include fuel, oil, lubricants, and cleaning supplies shall be procured and provided by the contractor; the USG is not obligated to provide services, supplies, equipment, or facilities other than landing, taxing and parking areas.

Question. Please advise if the USG will provide a pegged fuel rate with reimbursement CLIN for this contract. Duer to the nature of the operations, predicting fuel costs for all locations, and all option periods may increase the price estimations.’

As stated in PWS section 4.1.3: All materials, to include fuel, oil, lubricants, and cleaning supplies shall be procured and provided by the contractor. The USG will not provide fuel.

70 ‘Are billeting and Authorized Weapons provided by the government? Does the USG reimburse for CRC training?’

Please refer to PWS section 4.1 for provided services. For arming requirements, please refer to DFARS 252.225-7040. Following award of contract, the contractor should submit an arming plan for employees to the Contracting Officer. The Contracting

Officer will then coordinate that request with U.S. Forces – Afghanistan. The Government will not reimburse the contractor for CRC training.

71 ‘Para 4.2.2, page 41 of 137: Is the contractor responsible for force protection of passengers and cargo, or just contractor employees and assets? Is the contractor responsible, at all times and at all places, for force protection of contractor employees and assets?

Does this contract provide for arming contractor employees?’

Contractor is responsible for the protection of its own employees. The contractor may request that employees be armed subsequent to award of the

IDIQ in accordance with DFARS 252.225-7040. The request would be done AFTER award.

72 ‘Para 5.1.2, page 43 of 137: Is the contractor required to arrange for ground handling equipment (forklifts) at any location? Please clarify the requirement for the contractor to make arrangements for loading/unloading? What type of arrangements?’

No. The contractor will need to coordinate with the USG or Afghans for all loading and unloading, but will not be physically required to load/unload cargo at locations other than the 5 main locations as outlined in the PWS.

73 ‘Para 8.2.1, page 45 of 137: Where is “home base”?’

Please review PWS 1.4.3.1.2. The Government will identify base locations for aircraft in the Requests for Task Order Proposals following award of the

IDIQs.

74 ‘Chart on page 51 of 137 states in the “Program Management” section that aircraft must have ballistic protection systems (BPS), but 3.4 and page 72 of 137 state that R/W aircraft only are to be equipped with BPS. Please clarify.’

There is no requirement for BPS kits for F/W aircraft. Requirements for F/W are located at PWS 3.3.

75 ‘Page 125 of 137 indicates that contractor employees that are U.S.

citizens are not “contractor accompanying armed forces” status.

Was this intentional?’

Please refer to status of contractors in

DFARS 252.225-7040.

76 ‘Special Requirements Section 3 calls for the Evidence of Insurance to be signed by the Insurance Company. To comply with Afgan Insurance Law (Article 6 -1) our policy is a reinsurance of a local Afgan company and is reinsured 100% with various companies. Are we required for each company to sign this document, or will the government accept a Certificate of Reinsurance issued by our Reinsurance Broker meet the stated requirements?’

The Government will accept a Certificate of Reinsurance issued by the

Issurance Broker.

77 ‘This section calls for Workers Compensation. Please confirm that DBA coverage would meet this RFP requirement’ Reference: PWS Page 31 – Section 4

Yes, DBA coverage would meet this requirement. Please note, section 4 of the Special Requirements Section has been removed. For U.S vendors, refer to FAR 52.228-3. For Non-U.S. vendors, refer to FAR 52.228-3, 952.225-0001 and 952.225-0002.

78 Reference: PWS Page 29 - “ENDORSEMENT”

‘Question 1:

Section (b) states: “The exclusions of the policy are deleted and the following substituted therefore”. It is not practical to ask for all exclusions of the policy to be deleted and substituted.

However, we can ask for the additional exclusions listed to be incorporated into the policy wording. Will this be acceptable?

Question 2:

Section (a) states: “for damages arising from injuries or death… not exceeding $150,000 …the carrier shall not be able to exclude or limit its liability”. This implies for losses at $150,000 or below that Insurers have to pay a loss regardless of the circumstances.

Can this clause be amended to include the wording “…subject to policy conditions, limitations and exclusions”?

Question 3:

Section (f) refers to FAA violations. Please confirm this should not apply to foreign air carriers as they are not necessarily overseen by the FAA.’

Question 1: Yes, this would be acceptable.

Question 2. Section H allows for these policy conditions, limitations and exclusions already.

Question 3. FAA violations will not apply to foreign carriers.

79 ‘Can the government explain the structure and number of years each task order will be?’

The Government anticipates issuing Request for Task Order Proposals for each type of aircraft with a Period of Performance that will vary depending on the Government’s need. For planning purposes, the Government anticipates flight service hours in accordance with

PWS 1.2.4.

80 ‘Will the government please define the base locations for these aircraft and their ground support equipment?’

The Government will specify basing locations in the Request for Task Order Proposals. Please refer to 1.4.3.1.2.

81 ‘Will fixed wing aircraft based in the South at Kandahar only service the Kandahar AOR? This will allow for greater flexibility in aircraft type.’

The Government will specify basing locations in the Request for Task Order

Proposals. The offeror should not assume that flights will be conducted exclusively within a single province.

Please refer to PWS 1.4.3.1.2.

82 ‘The sample Letter of Authorization states the government will provide billeting. Will the government please confirm this billeting will be sufficient to fulfill FAA part 135 crew rest requirements?’

Please refer to 952.225-0011. The Government has coordinated billeting for flight crews and flight crews will not be required to fly more than 8 hours per day. While the contractor shall participate in Random Anti-Terrorism measures, as stated in PWS 4.2.4., the Government does not anticipate these events will prevent crew rest requirements in accordance with FAA part 135.

83 ‘As a CARB certified and Fly America contractor following FAA

Part 135 regulations, fuel has to be of an approved fuel quality as per the Pilot Operating Handbook published by the Original Equipment manufacturer (OEM). Will the government please clarify the source and type of fuel available?