This Sources Sought opportunity from Department Of Defense was posted on August 25, 2026. The submission period has ended. Browse the details below for market research, or find similar active opportunities.

Top

Chase Plane Service

Closed

26-P-0000-039061Federal

Submission Closed09/27/2026, 08:00:00 PM UTC

Contract Overview

Solicitation details, issuing organization, response deadlines, documents, and interested companies for this government contract opportunity.

Active Opportunities Like This One

NAICS: 481219

New

Federal

Douglas DC-3 Aircraft Lease and Operational SupportThis subcontract, titled Douglas DC-3 Aircraft Lease and Operational Support, involves the provision and operation of Douglas DC-3 aircraft to support prime contractors on FAA Flight Standards Operations projects. The selected provider is responsible for supplying airworthy aircraft and managing all associated operational expenses, including fuel and landing fees, while ensuring strict adherence to FAA safety standards. To qualify, operators must hold valid FAA Airworthiness Certificates and maintain certification under Part 135 or Part 121. The primary objective of the contract is the delivery of available, airworthy aircraft to facilitate scheduled training flights for the Department of Transportation.

6973GH Franchise Acquisition Svcs

POSTED

DEADLINE

Collar-targeted Boreal Caribou Group Demographic Classification Aerial Surveys

Solicitation # tender_22222

The Government of Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources is soliciting bids for collar-targeted Boreal Caribou group demographic classification aerial surveys. The project aims to collect demographic data on adult female Boreal Caribou across the Brightsand, James Bay, Kesagami, Nipigon, and Pagwachuan Ranges to support population assessment and conservation management for the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. The scope of work involves using rotary-wing aircraft to survey approximately 180 collared caribou in 2027, with a potential extension option for a second season in 2028 covering approximately 160 collared caribou. Contractor responsibilities include organizing project planning meetings, establishing operational bases and fuel caches, detecting and classifying caribou, and managing all data collection and crew training. The contract is for an initial twelve-month term starting in December 2026, with a possible six-month extension at the Ministry's discretion. Bidders must be legal entities with a valid Canadian Revenue Agency business number and a Tax Compliance Verification number. Mandatory requirements include providing a Transport Canada Civil Aviation-issued Air Operator Certificate and ensuring pilots-in-command meet specific qualification standards. Awarding is based on a Best Score strategy across three stages: mandatory qualification, a technical evaluation requiring a minimum score of 115.5 points, and a commercial evaluation where the lowest price receives maximum points. Bids must be submitted via the Ontario Tenders Portal by November 27, 2026.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Aviation Services for Marine Mammal Surveys

Solicitation # 202610167

The State of Maine Department of Marine Resources, Division of Marine Mammal Research, is soliciting proposals for specialized aviation services to conduct monthly aerial surveys of marine mammals in the Gulf of Maine. The contract requires the contractor to provide aircraft and pilots for a minimum of 15 days per month, with the potential for up to 25 standby days and a maximum of 45 flight hours per month. Performance is scheduled to begin February 1, 2027, with an initial term ending January 31, 2028, and options for up to four renewal periods. Operations will primarily be based at or near Knox County Airport, though alternative locations may be approved. Award will be based on best value, utilizing a consensus scoring approach for technical evaluations and a pro-rated formula for cost. Bidders must submit cost proposals covering the period from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2029, including specific rates for aircraft and pilot standby and flight time. Strict safety and regulatory compliance is required, including adherence to FAA and CFR standards, preferred FAR 14 CFR Part 135 certification, and the provision of independent safety audits and current inspection records. Proposals must be submitted via the Vendor Self Service system by November 30, 2026, and must include various certifications, litigation disclosures, and proof of health insurance for all pilots.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Forestry and Parks - Request for Proposal - Light - Intermediate Helicopter (3 in total) Aerial Ungulate Survey

Solicitation # AB-2026-07167

Forestry and Parks is seeking proposals for three light to intermediate helicopters to conduct Aerial Ungulate Surveys across a vast region of Alberta, extending from south of Red Deer to the US border and between the Saskatchewan and British Columbia borders, with potential contingency flights in the Cadomin area. The requirement specifies a fleet composition consisting primarily of two EC-120 helicopters and one AS350B3, though equivalent models may be considered upon written inquiry to the Contracting Manager. Proponents must own the proposed aircraft at the time of submission and provide all necessary documentation. To ensure fair competition, individual aircraft cannot be listed in multiple proposals from different companies. Interested parties must submit their responses by November 10, 2026, for this solicitation identified as AB-2026-07167.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Helicopter and Pilot Services for Prescribed Burning – Tate’s Hell State Forest

Solicitation # ITB FFS 26 27 64

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is soliciting competitive bids under ITB FFS 26 27 64 for helicopter and pilot services to support prescribed burning operations within Tate’s Hell State Forest in Franklin County, Florida. The selected contractor must provide a helicopter capable of carrying at least three Florida Forest Service personnel and equipped for aerial ignition sphere deployment, along with a supporting fuel truck. Services must be available with 16 hours' notice, and all operations must comply with FAA regulations, including specific pilot qualifications under 14 CFR 135.243 and rest requirements under 14 CFR 135.267. The contract is intended for an initial one-year term with the possibility of three additional one-year renewals upon mutual agreement. Award will be granted to the responsive and responsible vendor offering the lowest Initial Term Fixed Price Per Hour. Bidders must submit sealed physical packages by November 13, 2026, including the FDACS Acknowledgement Form and a completed Price Sheet; electronic submissions are prohibited. Required insurance coverage includes general liability of 1 million dollars per occurrence and 2 million dollars aggregate, automobile liability of 300,000 dollars, and worker's compensation with a 500,000 dollar policy aggregate. Preference in the award process may be given to businesses certifying a drug-free workplace, certified veteran business enterprises, or foreign manufacturers with over 200 employees in Florida. Payment is made via state government warrant, contingent upon annual legislative appropriation.

Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

POSTED

DEADLINE

C26635024 - Helicopter transport services for Panther Gap in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Solicitation # C26635024

The California Department of Parks and Recreation, North Coast Redwoods District, is soliciting bids for helicopter transport services at Panther Gap within Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The contractor is required to provide one heavy lift helicopter, including pilots, fuel, and maintenance support, to transport up to 500 whole trees, logs, and logs with root wads from restoration sites and log decks into upper Bull and Panther creeks. This project supports prairie restoration by improving aquatic habitat complexity and metering sediments. The anticipated performance period runs from June 10, 2026, through October 31, 2028. The contract will be awarded using the Low Price Method, with specific evaluation incentives for certified Small Businesses (5% preference) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (up to 5% incentive), subject to a combined cap of 100,000 dollars. Bidders must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability, motor vehicle liability, pollution liability, and workers compensation. Required submissions include a Service Contracts Bid Form, Bidder Declaration, Contractor Certification Clauses, and an Artificial Intelligence Disclosure Form. Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope by November 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM.

California Department of Parks & Recreation

POSTED

DEADLINE

Aerial Fixed-Wing Surveys and Telemetry Services

Solicitation # 802-26-77818

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is soliciting proposals under solicitation number 802-26-77818 to establish one or more blanket contracts for statewide aerial fixed-wing surveys and telemetry services. The contractor will be responsible for providing all necessary aircraft, pilots, personnel, equipment, and consumables, including fuel, to support as-needed operations at designated on-site base camps across Texas. Specific deliverables include Pronghorn surveys using Cessna or Kodiak 100/Turbine equivalent aircraft, waterfowl surveys, and aerial telemetry services. The initial term of the contract begins on the date of award and continues through August 31, 2027, with the possibility of four additional one-year renewals. To qualify, respondents must possess a Federal Aviation Administration Part 135 Certificate and demonstrate at least five years of experience performing low-level aerial wildlife services, specifically in mountainous terrain at altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. Pilots are required to have a minimum of 1,000 flight hours in wildlife-oriented work. Proposals are due by November 12, 2026, and must include a technical proposal, price sheet, and a VetHUB subcontracting plan. Awards will be based on the best value to the state, evaluated through a two-step process consisting of an administrative review and a technical scoring phase. Compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act, Equal Opportunity clauses, and strict confidentiality and cybersecurity standards is required.

Parks and Wildlife Department

POSTED

DEADLINE

Forestry and Parks - Request for Proposal - Feral Horse Population Survey Flights 2027

Solicitation # AB-2026-06906

Forestry and Parks is seeking proposals for the Feral Horse Population Survey Flights 2027 in Alberta, Canada. The project requires a contractor to provide a helicopter, pilot, fuel, and a fuel truck with a driver to conduct low-altitude, low-airspeed surveys. The primary objective is to safely classify feral horses into age categories based on visual features across designated Equine Management Zones. The estimated duration for the project is between five and eight days, though the final timeline depends on daylight hours and weather conditions. Proposals must be submitted for the entire list of surveys or for all surveys based out of one of the three specified airports. The solicitation deadline for this project is November 13, 2026.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Fixed Wing Aerial Dispersant Capability

Solicitation # 26AMSA086

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is seeking proposals for the provision of Fixed Wing Aerial Dispersant Capability under solicitation number 26AMSA086. This requirement focuses on securing specialized aerial services to deploy dispersants, supporting the agency's maritime safety and environmental response operations. Interested parties must submit their responses by the deadline of November 11, 2026. For further information or inquiries regarding this solicitation, the primary point of contact is Chris Evans, who can be reached via email at [email hidden] or by phone at +61262795027.

Australian Maritime Safety Authority

POSTED

DEADLINE

Light Amphibious Airtanker Services

Solicitation # 234772

The Ministry of Forests for the Province of British Columbia is seeking a Standing Arrangement for Light Amphibious Airtanker Services to support the BC Wildfire Service. The required Airtanker Group must consist of five Air Tractor AT-802 Fireboss aircraft and one Birddog aircraft, including all necessary flight crews, maintenance personnel, and vehicles. Technical specifications for the airtankers include a minimum of 1,600 SHP for take-off, a water/retardant tank capacity of 3,028 litres capable of a salvo drop in 1.4 seconds or less, and a minimum fuel capacity of 380 US gallons. Aircraft must be Transport Canada approved and feature high-visibility markings on the top and bottom of the wings near the wingtips. The contract operates on an as-needed basis, with aircraft required to provide at least 175 hours of uninterrupted service at the start of the annual operating period. Successful respondents must have the Airtanker Group in their possession by April 1, 2027, for initial inspection and acceptance by the BC Wildfire Service. Evaluation is based on a weighted ranking system where non-pricing rated criteria account for 60 percent of the score, with the top two ranking respondents proceeding to due diligence. Pricing is in Canadian dollars and excludes costs for fuel, retardant, and landing fees, while providing specific daily allowances for personnel and living expenses. Bidders must submit responses by December 1, 2026, via BC Bid or email. Mandatory requirements include a Non-Disclosure Agreement for Virtual Documents Room access, a WorkSafe BC Clearance Letter, and various aviation certifications, including Certificates of Airworthiness and Transport Canada Approved Maintenance Organization certificates. Insurance requirements are stringent, requiring 15 million dollars in comprehensive aircraft liability and 2 million dollars in aviation general liability.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Aerial Supervision Flight ServicesThis subcontract for Aerial Supervision Flight Services supports prime contractors on lead plane projects managed by the Department of the Interior. The scope of work involves executing specific flight profiles and aerial supervision missions using aircraft capable of transporting a pilot, a passenger, and 50 pounds of equipment with a minimum endurance of four hours. The service provider must supply pilots and co-pilots who are fully compliant with FAA Part 135 regulations. The primary deliverables for this engagement are the successful completion of designated flight hours and the execution of all required aerial supervision missions under NAICS code 481219.

Ibc Acq Svcs Directorate (00004)

POSTED

DEADLINE

Non-binding Request for Standing Arrangement Rappel Helicopter Services

Solicitation # 234484

The Ministry of Forests for the Province of British Columbia is issuing a non-binding Request for Standing Arrangement for Rappel Helicopter Services to support the BC Wildfire Service. The scope of work involves providing a rappel helicopter, qualified pilots, a maintenance crew, and a highly mobile truck and service trailer for remote operations. These services are provided on an as-needed basis for fire preparedness and response, specifically for the rappel and hoist insertion and extraction of fire crews and equipment. The primary base of operations is the Provincial Rappel Operations Centre in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, with service periods typically occurring between April and September. Eligible respondents must provide aircraft that meet strict technical specifications, including specific useful load benchmarks and high-visibility markings on rotors and emergency egress points. Pilots must possess extensive experience, including 3,000 total PIC hours, 1,000 hours in mountainous areas, and specialized training in vertical reference, bucketing, and underwater egress. Submissions are evaluated based on non-price rated criteria (70 percent) and a total price calculation (30 percent) involving availability fees and flight time rates. Notably, Addendum No. 1 specifies that submissions from U.S. suppliers will be disregarded. Contractors are required to maintain comprehensive insurance coverage via form FIN 173, with liability limits ranging from 3 million to 15 million dollars depending on passenger capacity. Mandatory documentation includes a Transport Canada Air Operator Certificate, certificates of airworthiness, and evidence of ownership or lease. The Province requires an initial aircraft inspection by March 1, 2027, and subsequent annual inspections to ensure engine and gearbox overhaul intervals are maintained. Payment is processed within 30 days of receiving a detailed statement of account supported by daily flight tickets.

Ministry of Forests

POSTED

about 1 month ago

DEADLINE

in 11 days

AI Contract Overview

The 163rd ATKW at March ARB is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice, reference number 26-P-0000 039061, to identify capable sources for chase plane services. The requirement involves providing a fully mission-capable chase aircraft, a qualified pilot, and an observer crew to escort Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) during all flight phases outside of restricted airspace, including takeoff, transit, and recovery. The aircraft must be capable of a sustained speed of 150 knots true airspeed at or below 12,000 feet and be equipped with dual-frequency radios and standard beacons and strobe lights. The contractor is responsible for all insurance and liability regarding the aircraft and personnel. The government is seeking responses from all capable small businesses, including HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, and VOSB entities, under NAICS code 481219. Personnel must meet strict FAA certifications, including Class 2 medical certificates and current flight reviews. Interested firms must submit a capability statement and a response form to MSgt David Moreno by 1:00 PM local time on August 27, 2026. This notice is for informational and planning purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation or commitment by the government.

General Info

Government seeks small businesses for RPA chase aircraft services at KRIV with strict operational and crew requirements.

Agency

Department Of Defense → W7MX Uspfo Activity Caang 163

NAICS

481219 - Other Nonscheduled Air Transportation

Place of Performance

0, CA, 92518, USA

Set-Aside

SBA

Documents

sources-sought

High

AI Contract Breakdown

Uniform Contract Format

Timeline

1 update

PhaseClosed

PostedJul 27

Sources Sought

Deadline changedAug 25

Response deadline changed from Aug 27, 2026 to Sep 27, 2026.

Response DeadlineSep 27

Deadline has passed

Submission Closed

09/27/2026, 08:00:00 PM UTC

Find active opportunities like this

Get full access to discover similar active contracts, track opportunities, and build proposals with AI assistance.

Organization & Contact Information

AgencyDepartment Of Defense → W7MX Uspfo Activity Caang 163

Contacts1 person available

OfficeMARCH ARB, CA, 92518-1715, USA

Organization / AgencyDepartment Of Defense → W7MX Uspfo Activity Caang 163

Office AddressMARCH ARB, CA, 92518-1715, USA

Contacts

David Moreno

contact@example.gov

+1 (555) 000-0000

Full Description

SOURCES SOUGHT: THIS IS NOT A NOTICE OR REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL BUT FOR

INFORMATIONAL AND PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY! This notice does not constitute a commitment by the Government. All information submitted in response to this announcement is voluntary and the Government will not pay for information requested nor will it compensate any respondent for any cost in developing information provided to the Government. If a solicitation is issued, it will be announced at a later date and all interested parties must respond to that solicitation announcement separately from responses to this announcement.

This notification is being conducted by the 163rd ATKW at March ARB.

This Sources Sought is only intended to identify potential sources for the purpose of market research, describes only the current contemplated scope of potential requirements and may vary from the scope of the requirement in a final PWS included in any RFQ.

The Sources Sought number is 26-P-0000 039061 and shall be used to reference any written responses to this Sources Sought.

The anticipated North American Industry Classification Systems (NAICS) code is 481219, Other Nonscheduled Air Transportation with a size standard for the proposed NAICS of $25M.

Business Status: The Government is interested in all Small Businesses that are capable of meeting this requirement, including, HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, VOSB, and general Small Businesses.

The contractor shall provide a fully mission-capable chase aircraft, along with a qualified pilot and observer crew, to accompany the RPA during all phases of flight outside of restricted airspace. This includes takeoff, traffic pattern operations, transit along established routes, and recovery. The chase crew is responsible for uninterrupted visual scanning, collision avoidance, maintaining communication with both the RPA and Air Traffic Control (ATC),

Contractor-Furnished Aircraft & Equipment Requirements

Performance: Capable of a sustained speed of 150 knots true airspeed at an altitude of 12,000 feet and below.
Communication: Equipped with radios capable of communicating on two separate frequencies simultaneously (one for RPA inter-plane, one for ATC).
Insurance & Liability: All chase aircraft shall be fully insured. The Contractor is solely responsible for damages to the aircraft or personnel. Absent Government negligence, the Government shall not be held liable for any damages sustained by the contractor.
Onboard Equipment:
- Chase and RPA will operate beacons and strobe lights during both day and night operations.

General Flight Operations

Takeoff & Transit: The chase aircraft shall be overhead March ARB (KRIV) at the scheduled RPA takeoff time. The chase will accompany the RPA during pattern operations and transit to restricted airspace (R-2515 or R-2503) per the current COA and LOA. After drop-off, the chase will return to base and remain on standby.
Recovery: The chase aircraft will report to the designated pick-up point (R-2515 or R-2503) 10 minutes prior to the scheduled handover time and orbit. Upon clearance, the chase will rejoin the RPA and escort it back to KRIV, remaining in formation until the RPA completes a full-stop landing.
Transfer of Control: The chase will maintain visual responsibility until the RPA enters the KRIV traffic pattern and a ground observer officially takes over visual responsibilities.

Contractor Personnel & Qualifications

General: Only pilots and observers submitted in the contractor's proposal may be used. Any changes or substitutions require prior written approval from the Ordering Officer. Resumes for all personnel must be submitted to the Government.
Crew Composition: Standard operations require one (1) chase-qualified pilot and one (1) chase-qualified observer. Two (2) qualified chase pilots are required when oxygen use is mandated by FAA regulations.
Crew Responsibilities:
- Chase Pilot: Responsible for aircraft control and visual separation with the RPA.
- Chase Observer: Responsible for clearing for traffic and advising the RPA of potential conflicts or deteriorating weather.
Pilot Qualifications:
- Must hold all certifications, ratings, and endorsements required by 14 CFR to act as Pilot in Command.
- Possess a current airman medical certificate (FAA Class 2 or military equivalent) per 14 CFR 67.
- Must be current per 14 CFR 61.56 (Flight Review) and 61.57 (Recent Flight Experience).
- Shall comply with 14 CFR 91.17 regarding alcohol and drug use.
Observer Qualifications:
- Must have a comprehensive understanding of federal aviation regulations for the operational airspace.
- Shall not perform crew duties for more than one RPA at a time, nor perform concurrent duties as both a pilot and observer.
- Possess a valid FAA Class 2 medical certificate per 14 CFR 67.
- Shall comply with 14 CFR 91.17 regarding alcohol and drug use.

CAPABILITY STATEMENT: Firms responding to this Sources Sought notice are requested to provide a capability statement. At a minimum, the capability statement must include:

Company Name
Point of Contact Name
Unique Entity Number (UEI) and CAGE Code
Small Business socio-economic status under NAICS 238350
Brief descriptions of recent and relevant projects for tasks similar to those in the description of work with the associated agency’s name, contract number (if applicable), and agency point of contact
If work was conducted under a teaming agreement, please annotate if work was performed as the prime or the subcontractor

RESPONSE FORM: Fill out the Sources Sought Response form in addition to your capabilities statement

Capability statements must be submitted via e-mail to the POCs listed below no later than 1:00 PM Local Time on 27 August 26. Telephone responses will not be accepted.

Name: MSgt David Moreno

Email: contact@example.gov

Future information about this acquisition, including issuance of a Request for Proposal or an Invitation for Bid, or applicable amendments, will be issued through SAM.gov. Interested parties are responsible for ensuring they have the most up-to-date information regarding this acquisition.

All firms should be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) located at http://www.sam.gov.