R -- Pilot Services

The Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate, Rome NY intends to solicit and negotiate a sole source Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity Service Contract for five years under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 with Research Associates of Syracuse, 6780 Northern Boulevard, Suite 100, East Syracuse, NY, under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 for assistance with test planning, operation of aircraft, operation of equipment being evaluated, and reporting of Airborne Evaluation Facility (AEF) activities. Information received within 7 days after date of publication of the solicitation will be considered by the Government. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed purchase order based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. The NAICS code is 488190. SOLE SOURCE JUSTIFICATION: The Airborne Evaluation Facility (AEF) uses USAF Aero Club aircraft to support critical Research and Development (R&D) needs of the Laboratory. Cessna 402 B and Piper Aztec aircraft are specially modified to meet AFRL Requirements for research data collection and technology evaluation. According to USAF Aero Club policy (AFMAN 34-232), "Only club members, employees, or aero club contractors possessing a valid FAA Pilot Certificate and who have successfully completed the applicable checkout requirements may pilot club aircraft." There are four (4) pilots who are Griffiss Aero Club members, who meet the Aero Club criteria for flying Aero Club planes, and who are qualified to fly the Cessna 402 B. Those four (4) pilots are all employees of Research Associates of Syracuse.