Helicopter Tug

The Commonwealth of Kentucky, Department of Transportation Cabinet, Division of Purchases, is requesting bids for one helicopter tug on behalf of the Capitol City Airport Division, with bids due June 30, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

The helicopter tug must meet a detailed technical specification: 6,000-pound lift capacity; compatibility with B206 and B206L aircraft; 24-volt chargeable battery system with ability to operate up to 12 cycles without recharging; 2,500 PSI hydraulic pump; all-wheel drive capability; controls allowing the operator to see the tail and either side of the aircraft during maneuvering; and compatibility with lower WSPS/nose-mounted sight aircraft configurations. The unit must be delivered to Capitol City Airport in Frankfort, Kentucky.

The award will be made on a best-value basis: 95 points allocated to price and 5 points to delivery time. The bidder with the lowest price receives maximum points; subsequent bidders' scores are calculated proportionally. Delivery must be specified as a definite number of calendar days after contract award, with one percent deducted from invoices per day for late delivery.

All bidders must register in the Commonwealth eProcurement System and submit electronically through the Kentucky Vendor Self Service platform. Required documentation includes a notarized affidavit; certificate of authority for foreign entities; equipment specifications or product literature; and evidence of commercial general liability insurance with minimum limits of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate. Automobile liability insurance with minimum $1 million combined single limit is required if the contractor will deliver the equipment. Vendors must possess a United States bank account and accept paper checks or electronic fund transfers to a U.S. address or bank account.

Written questions are due June 18, 2026 at 4:00 p.m., with responses posted by June 23, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. A public bid reading will be held June 30, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. via conference line. The tentative award date is July 10, 2026.