USWFS Commercial Aviation Services
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Interior (DOI), Interior Business Center (IBC), Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD) has issued a Request for Quote (RFQ) for commercial aviation services to support the U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS). This opportunity, Solicitation Number 140D0426R0468, requires the transportation of personnel, goods, and cargo between the Contiguous U.S. (Lower 48) and Alaska, with the contractor's primary base of operations in Boise, Idaho. Quotes are due by June 1, 2026, at 4:00 PM Mountain Time.
Scope of Work
This requirement is for commercial aviation services utilizing multi-engine turboprop or turbojet powered, extended over water fixed-wing aircraft. Key requirements include:
- Aircraft: Must have a Standard Airworthiness Certificate, be certified under 14 CFR 25, and possess engineering/logistical support for continued airworthiness. Aircraft must be pressurized with environmental controls, IFR/VFR, day/night, and known icing capable.
- Capacity: Insured seating for a minimum of 50 passengers and 100 pounds of cargo per passenger.
- Operational Capability: Capable of operating from Boise, ID to Anchorage, AK with one fuel stop within the Contiguous U.S. or Alaska.
- Flight Crew: Requires one Pilot-in-Command (PIC) and one Second-in-Command (SIC) per flight, plus flight attendant(s) per 14 CFR 121.391.
- Maintenance: Aircraft and equipment must be maintained according to OEM or approved STC holder's instructions.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Request for Quote (RFQ), combined synopsis/solicitation under FAR Part 12. Award will be based on Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA).
- Period of Performance: Anticipated from June 29, 2026, through August 28, 2026 (60 days), with an option to extend for 30 days.
- Set-Aside: This is a full and open competition; it is not set-aside for small business concerns.
- NAICS Code: 481211 (Nonscheduled Chartered Passenger Air Transportation), Size Standard: 1,500 employees.
- PSC Code: V221 (Transportation/Travel/Relocation - Passenger Air Charter).
Submission & Evaluation
- Quotes Due: June 1, 2026, 4:00 PM Mountain Time.
- Submission Method: Email only to Stephanie McCullough at stephanie_mccullough@ibc.doi.gov.
- Questions Due: May 27, 2026, 4:00 PM Mountain Time, via email to Stephanie McCullough (subject line: "Questions - RFQ 140D0426R0468").
- Evaluation Factors: Technical Capability, Organizational Safety, Past Performance, and Total Evaluated Price.
- Award Basis: Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA).
Important Notes
Funds are not presently available for this effort. The Government's issuance of this RFQ is subject to the availability of funds, and the Government reserves the right not to make an award. Offerors must submit a complete quote including all required documentation as detailed in Section D of the solicitation. Fuel will be furnished by the Government, except when operating in Alaska, where the contractor may need to purchase fuel and be reimbursed.