Fire Flights

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry (ODAFF) is soliciting bids for fixed-wing aircraft and pilots to conduct wildfire detection flights across three Eastern Areas protection zones covering approximately 6.2 million acres in 15 counties, with bids due August 10, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. CST. Service-disabled veteran businesses operating in Oklahoma receive a three-percentage-point bonus preference in bid scoring.

The contract requires vendors to furnish Cessna 172 or equivalent aircraft equipped with GPS systems capable of locating fires within one-quarter mile accuracy and maintain 115 mph cruising speed. During high to extreme fire danger periods, vendors must provide two aircraft with pilot/spotters for four to seven hours daily for an estimated 44 days (362 flight hours); during moderate to high periods, one aircraft for approximately four hours daily for an estimated 44 days (188 flight hours). Pilots must hold commercial/instrument ratings with a minimum 800 logged flight hours and at least 40 hours in a Cessna 172 or equivalent; preference is given to candidates with aerial fire detection experience. Vendors are responsible for all aircraft maintenance, FAA licensing compliance, and security of ODAFF-provided equipment (electronic maps, iPads, two-way radios). Compensation is based solely on actual flight activity documented by Hobbs meter readings verified by dispatch, with no monthly or flat-rate fees. Invoices must include date, protection area, Hobbs readings, time charged, and daily totals; payment is NET 45 days via EFT.

The initial contract term extends from Purchase Order execution through June 30, 2026. Either party may terminate with 30 days' written notice; ODAFF may cancel immediately for default. Vendors must maintain commercial general liability insurance of not less than $5 million per occurrence and automobile liability of not less than $5 million combined single limit. Bid pricing must remain firm for 120 days from the due date. Questions are due August 4, 2026; administrative review requests are due August 5, 2026. The contracting officer is Ashley Johnson at Ashley.Johnson@ag.ok.gov or 405-249-4946.