Bell Medium Helicopter Rappel Brackets

The contract pertains to the provision of the USDA Forest Service approved External Load Attach Mechanism (ELAM) rappel bracket specifically designed for Bell medium helicopters, including models 205, 210, and 212. This rappel bracket, with part number USDA200-012, is essential for US Forest Service rappel operations and is the only authorized system under the USDA US Forest Service Rappel Program. The brackets installed on Bell medium helicopters during the 2018-2021 Exclusive-Use Helicopter Services Contract are identical to this approved system. The estimated cost for the rappel bracket is $15,785 USD, and production lead time is approximately 10 to 15 weeks following order confirmation. Dart Aerospace, based in Ontario, Canada, is the authorized source and supplier for these brackets. This contract falls under the Total Small Business Set-Aside category (FAR 19.5) with NAICS code 481212, managed by the USDA Forest Service within the Department of Agriculture, headquartered in Boise, Idaho. The solicitation number is SN-2020-05, with the contract posting dated January 9, 2020. Key contacts include Mike McFarlane from the Forest Service and Dart Aerospace’s sales team. The rappel bracket supports critical safety and operational requirements for Forest Service firefighting and rescue missions carried out with Bell medium helicopters.