P-51D Aircraft for Aerial Demonstration and Static Display

The 55th Contracting Squadron, operating under the Department of the Air Force Air Combat Command, is seeking to procure a P-51D Mustang aircraft for aerial demonstration and static display purposes at the 2026 Offutt Air Force Base "Defenders of Freedom" Air and Space Show scheduled for August 8-9, 2026. The aircraft must be painted in the colors of the 55th Fighter Wing during World War II and comply with AFMAN 10-1004, paragraph 4.2.4 specifications. Key contract requirements include conducting 10-15 minute aerial demonstrations on each show date, providing static display with crew engagement with spectators, and delivering comprehensive media support including digital press kits and HD video content. The contractor must also comply with all FAA guidelines and certification requirements, provide required federal forms (DD Forms 2400, 2401, and 2402) prior to landing, and coordinate all media communications through Offutt Public Affairs. The due date for interested vendors to submit inquiries is March 12, 2026, with evaluation criteria focusing on the vendor's ability to provide the specified aircraft and meet all regulatory and operational requirements.

This opportunity is not designated as a set-aside contract. Previous market research conducted for the 2024 show resulted in a sole source award to the Commemorative Air Force (CAGE: 06JG4), identified as the only vendor capable of providing the requested aircraft; however, this pre-solicitation notice invites other qualified entities to express their capability to provide the P-51D aircraft. While no specific award value or budget range is disclosed in the pre-solicitation notice, the government will provide fuel (up to 300 gallons of 100LL plus 2 gallons of oil), hangar space, security, crowd control, up to two hotel rooms, ground transportation, and meals for up to two performers during the August 7-10, 2026 performance period. The contract performance window begins August 7, 2026 (with aircraft arrival required by 12:00 PM CST) and extends through August 10, 2026 (with departure by 12:00 PM CST), with one to two rehearsal flights scheduled on August 7 prior to the show dates.