Type 1 Helicopter Services for Wildfire Protection

The State of Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) is seeking a qualified contractor to provide exclusive use of a Type 1 Twin‑Turbine Tanked Helicopter for wildfire protection, including all associated pilot services, equipment, and support. The contractor must supply the helicopter, qualified crew, and fire‑suppression payload systems, and comply with detailed technical, safety, and performance requirements outlined in multiple attachments (cost summary, pilot qualifications, management personnel, aircraft performance, tank and pump data). The award will be a sealed‑bid RFP; pricing will be negotiated after the award. • Provide a Type 1 twin‑turbine, tanked helicopter capable of 8,000 lb payload drops at 8,000 ft and 25 °C. • Supply qualified pilots, flight‑operations, and maintenance managers meeting strict experience and certification criteria (FAR 133/137 compliance). • Deliver complete documentation on aircraft performance, tank/pump systems, and cost proposal per the required attachments. • Meet all safety, reporting, and regulatory requirements of DNRC’s Air Operations Division for statewide wildfire suppression missions.