Operated Helicopter Rental Services in Alpine, Amador, El Dorado, Inyo, Mono, Placer, and San Bernardino Counties

The State of California is seeking a contractor to provide operated helicopter rental services for avalanche control across multiple counties, including Alpine, Amador, El Dorado, Inyo, Mono, Placer, and San Bernardino Counties. The procurement requires a fully operated and maintained Commercial Rotorcraft-Helicopter, specifically a Bell UH-1H or equivalent, to support the DaisyBell avalanche control system. The primary deliverables include the helicopter rental, a fuel truck, and a driver who will also serve as a ground mechanic. The solicitation was posted on September 9, 2025, with proposals due by September 23, 2025. Contractors must provide all necessary labor, tools, equipment, materials, maintenance, repair, and inspection services for the helicopter and associated equipment. The full scope of services is detailed in the Proposed Form of Agreement, Exhibit A, which is attached to the Invitation for Bid (IFB). For those requiring accessible document versions, interested parties can submit a request at http://bit.ly/dpac-ada or call (916) 654-2852.

While specific set-aside designations or disadvantaged enterprise requirements are not explicitly outlined in the provided documentation, potential bidders should note the technical and operational complexities of the contract. The procurement requires specialized aviation expertise and the ability to provide a fully operational helicopter with ground support capabilities. Interested contractors must demonstrate significant experience in helicopter operations, avalanche control systems, and mobile ground support services. The contract appears to be focused on operational readiness and technical capability rather than specific vendor classification. Although no specific budget range is provided, the comprehensive nature of the services—including helicopter rental, fuel truck, and ground mechanic services—suggests a substantial contract value. Potential bidders should carefully review the Proposed Form of Agreement and ensure they can meet the technical specifications for helicopter type, operational requirements, and geographical service area spanning multiple California counties.