BIA Exclusive Use Amphibious Single Engine Scooper   4

Background
The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is seeking to acquire exclusive use flight services for a single-engine, amphibious water scooping aircraft to support fire suppression missions. This contract aims to provide essential aerial firefighting capabilities, ensuring effective response during fire seasons in the Bemidji, Minnesota area.

Work Details
The contractor will provide one (1) exclusive use single-engine water scooping aircraft equipped for fire suppression. Services include:
- Aircraft must have a Standard or Restricted Airworthiness Certificate and be certified under 14 CFR 23 or 25.
- Minimum requirements include 1600 Shaft Horsepower (SHP), a tank capacity of 799 US gallons, and the capability to dispense both water and fire retardant.
- The aircraft must operate from a gravel runway and have an endurance of at least 2 hours and 30 minutes under specified conditions.
- A crew consisting of one Level I SEAT Pilot in Command (PIC) and one Level I or II SEAT Relief Pilot is required.
- A fuel service vehicle with driver/operator is necessary for operations in the Lower 48 states.
- Water will be sourced from lakes or rivers and loaded at ground locations.

The exclusive use period is estimated at 60 days each fire season, typically from April 14 to June 12.

Period of Performance
The contract period of performance is from February 1, 2026, to January 31, 2031.

Place of Performance
The primary location for performance will be Bemidji, Minnesota.