RFI-Helicopter Transportation Support Services

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) to gather market research on helicopter transportation support services for their land mobile radio (LMR) tactical communications modernization system along the Southwest border from San Diego, CA to Del Rio, TX. The primary objective is to identify a contractor capable of providing helicopter transportation for maintenance and emergency repair missions to remote communication sites supporting CBP's Office of Border Patrol, Office of Field Operations, and Office of Air and Marine operations. Contractors must offer helicopter services under FAA Part 135 rules, with 200' long line capabilities for equipment transport, and demonstrate ability to operate in challenging terrain with limited facilities. The RFI requires potential vendors to provide detailed technical capabilities, including crew qualifications, safety equipment, ground-to-aircraft communications, and mechanical support. Interested parties must submit their responses by 5:00 p.m. EST on January 9, 2025, with any questions due by 4:00 p.m. EST on January 6, 2025.

This pre-solicitation notice does not have a specific set-aside designation and is open to all qualified vendors. While no incumbent contractor is explicitly mentioned, the RFI suggests a comprehensive service requirement for helicopter transportation that includes scheduled preventive maintenance inspections and emergency repairs. The contract will involve transporting up to 8-person work crews to remote sites, with the ability to lift and transport critical equipment such as antennas, ice shields, cables, pipes, and propane tanks. Contractors must provide 24/7 availability and be prepared to conduct operations with minimal ground support infrastructure. The geographical scope covers a significant portion of the Southwest border, requiring robust logistical and operational capabilities. Although the RFI does not specify a precise budget or contract value, the complexity of the required services indicates a potentially substantial procurement opportunity for a qualified helicopter transportation provider.