Special mission pilot and aircrew training and services

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has issued a Special Notice requesting information to address critical gaps in pilot recruitment, training, qualification, and retention for special mission aviation operations. This Request for Information (RFI) is designed to conduct comprehensive market research on industry capabilities for supporting the agency's aviation needs. The notice focuses on identifying potential contractors who can provide fully qualified mission pilots for fixed-wing special mission single and multi-engine aircraft supporting wildland firefighting and natural resource management. Specifically targeting the USFS's aviation support capabilities, the RFI seeks to explore innovative solutions for pilot development and operational staffing. The opportunity is classified under the NAICS category for Other Support Activities for Air Transportation and was posted on May 29, 2025, with responses due by June 30, 2025.

The primary objective of this RFI is to assess contractor capabilities for developing immersive standardized training programs for special mission pilots and aircrew, with potential training programs ranging from 9-18 months in duration. Contractors are expected to provide detailed capabilities statements covering areas such as licensing, instructor qualifications, certifications, flight hours, training facilities, and aircraft availability. The USFS is particularly interested in services that can supply fully qualified mission pilots across multiple categories, including Aerial Supervision, Smokejumper, Leadplane, and specialized reconnaissance missions. Eligible contractors should have extensive experience in aviation training, with pilots meeting stringent qualification requirements such as holding commercial pilot certificates, instrument ratings, and significant flight experience in mountainous terrain. The agency is exploring the potential for a Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC) or Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract to address current and future aviation personnel needs. Ultimately, the USFS aims to develop a robust pipeline of mission-ready pilots and aircrew members to support its critical wildland fire and natural resource management operations.