SD DOT Contract Pilot Services

The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SD DOT) is seeking contract pilot services for two state-owned aircraft: a Beechcraft 300 (N975KA) and a Beechcraft 90 (N773SD). The Request for Proposal (RFP) aims to secure pilots who can serve as either pilot-in-command or second-in-command on an as-needed basis. Qualified candidates must possess an FAA multi-engine ATP License with BE-300 single pilot type rating, a current FAA Class 1 or 2 medical certificate, and a minimum of 5,000 total flight hours. The evaluation criteria will prioritize specialized expertise, technical competence, availability to South Dakota, and past performance, with additional points awarded based on proximity to Pierre, South Dakota. The RFP was posted on August 14, 2025, with proposals due by September 11, 2025, at 5:00 pm CDT. Potential offerors must submit inquiries via email to Dawson Lewis at Dawson.Lewis@state.sd.us, with the subject line "SD DOT Pilot Services RFP Questions," and can expect responses through email and the state's e-procurement system.

The RFP does not specify any specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. The initial contract will be for one year, with the potential for up to five one-year extensions. Pilots will be required to submit a daily rate for services, with the state reimbursing reasonable travel costs. The state reserves the right to select multiple pilots and will negotiate terms, including compensation and performance schedule, with the highest-ranked offeror(s). Contracted pilots will be covered under the state's aircraft insurance policy, contingent upon compliance with specified provisions and approval by the DOT Chief Pilot. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the contract will be for pilot services in Harding County, South Dakota, with compensation based on daily rates and travel reimbursement. The anticipated contract award date is September 25, 2025, marking the beginning of the initial one-year contract period.