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

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) to solicit bids for Operated Helicopter Rental Services in Alpine, Amador, Eldorado, Inyo, Mono, Placer, and San Bernardino Counties. Caltrans is seeking a contractor to provide all labor, tools, equipment, materials, maintenance, repair, inspection, and incidentals necessary to rent one (1) fully operated and maintained commercial rotorcraft-helicopter, Eurocopter AStar AS350 B3 or equivalent, for the transport and use of DaisyBell mobile avalanche control systems to sites at risk of avalanche. The contract term is estimated to be from June 15, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Bids are due by May 23, 2024 at 2:00 PM Pacific Time, with a bid opening on the same day at 2:30 PM. The winning bidder will be required to provide various certifications and licenses, including a Commercial Rotorcraft License, Commercial or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate, and FAA Medical Certificate. The pilot must also meet minimum experience requirements of 100 hours in mountainous terrain and 16 hours in the furnished helicopter model.

A 5% small business preference and a DVBE incentive program are applicable for this solicitation. Caltrans has a 25% small business participation goal for this procurement. The bid rates must include all costs, with no additional allowances. The government has not provided any information about incumbent vendors or current contractors, or the available budget range for this contract opportunity.