Description
The Department of the Interior is conducting market research for exclusive‑use multi‑engine amphibious water‑scooping aviation services to support wildland fire suppression across the contiguous United States and Alaska. The contract will span a ten‑year period (April 2027 – March 2037) with annual exclusive‑use windows of 90–160 days, during which the aircraft will be under continuous government control. Qualified contractors must provide fully certified amphibious turbo‑prop aircraft (1,400‑gal water capacity, 180 kt cruise, 5,000‑ft gravel runway capability) along with pilots, mechanics, and relief crew, and must meet strict FAA, DOT, and IAB gate requirements. No funding has been authorized yet; responses are due by 1400 MT on 26 Oct 2026 via email only.
• Provide contractor‑operated amphibious water‑scooping aircraft meeting detailed performance specs.
• Supply qualified pilots, mechanics, and relief crew for each aircraft.
• Maintain compliance with airworthiness, runway, and gate standards, and be able to operate nationwide including Alaska (passport required).