IFB P2495023 Southern California Helicopter Rental

Background
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is seeking a contractor to provide helicopter rental services on an as-needed basis. This contract aims to support law enforcement and biological conservation efforts throughout California, particularly in Ventura County, where the Southern California base of the Air Operations unit is located. CDFW currently operates one helicopter based in Tehama County but requires additional rental services due to increasing operational demands.

Work Details
The contractor will provide airworthy helicopters that meet FAA Part 91 standards, maintained by qualified mechanics. Services include:

1. Providing helicopters ready for flight operations, fully fueled and serviced.
2. Ensuring all CDFW pilots receive check rides from the Contractor’s Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) before flying.
3. Making CFIs available for training as required.
4. Allowing CDFW access to the Contractor's facility for inspections.
5. Scheduling helicopter rentals with a minimum notice of 48 hours, responding to requests within 2 hours during business hours.
6. Billing only for actual flight hours used, with a minimum estimated need of 150 flight hours per year.

Period of Performance
The contract will commence upon approval by the California Department of General Services and will continue through June 30, 2027.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed at the Contractor’s business location, which must be within 25 nautical miles of CDFW Air Unit’s Southern California base at Camarillo Airport (KCMA).

Bidder Requirements
The contractor must possess all necessary licenses and permits to operate in California, including an FAA Title 14 CFR Part 91 Air Carrier Certificate and helicopter airworthiness certificates. Additionally, the contractor must maintain a facility for helicopter storage and maintenance within specified proximity to CDFW's operational base.