NWS Commercial Aircraft Based Observations Data Buy Support

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration seeks to acquire aircraft-based weather observations from major commercial airlines to support the National Weather Service. The objective is to improve Numerical Weather Prediction and forecasting through the procurement of atmospheric observations including temperature, wind, humidity, pressure and location data from commercial aircraft globally. Responses to the sources sought notice are due by February 8, 2024 to assist in determining technical capabilities and market interest for the potential award of an indefinite delivery indefinite quantity contract with a not to exceed ceiling and firm fixed price provisions from September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2029.

There is no set-aside designation. Data is estimated to include up to 3 million vertical profiles and en route observations annually from domestic and international airlines through MDCRS and ADS-C systems, as well as 700 profiles daily from aircraft with water vapor sensors. The contractor must also maintain existing water vapor sensors on 132 aircraft and provide data management, quality assurance, and reporting on data collection, maintenance issues and system performance on a quarterly and annual basis.