Air Show Aerial/Static: C-47

The 55th Contracting Squadron, operating under the Department of the Air Force Air Combat Command, is seeking to procure one C-47 (Skytrain) aircraft for aerial and static display at the 2026 Offutt Air Force Base "Defenders of Freedom" Air and Space Show scheduled for August 8-9, 2026 in Nebraska. The contractor must provide a fully operational, FAA-certified C-47 aircraft that complies with Approved Warbird guidance under AFI 10-1004 and is capable of serving as a jump platform for the United States Air Force Academy's Wings of Blue parachute team before transitioning to static display. Key requirements include conducting a minimum of one 10-15 minute flying performance per day, submitting required certifications (DD Forms 2400, 2401, and 2402) prior to landing, and providing digital media kits and availability for media interviews. The pre-solicitation notice indicates that interested vendors should contact the points of contact via email to express capability to provide the aircraft, with a response deadline of March 2, 2026. No specific evaluation criteria or selection methodology is detailed in the pre-solicitation materials provided.

This procurement carries no set-aside designation and identifies no incumbent contractors. The period of performance extends from Friday, August 7, 2026 through Sunday, August 10, 2026, requiring on-site arrival by 12:00 PM CST on August 7 for check-in and setup. The Air Force will provide logistical support including up to 600 gallons of 100LL aviation fuel, limited hangar space, aircraft security, four non-smoking hotel rooms, two vehicles with full tanks of gas, and one meal per performer on both show days. While no specific award value or performance fee is disclosed in the pre-solicitation notice, the contractor will receive 100 percent of the performance fee if present and ready to perform regardless of weather conditions, or 100 percent return of any deposit if physically unable to perform.