How to bid on Crash Attenuating Seat Assemblies for Airbus AS-332L1 Super Puma Helicopters for the Department of Agriculture

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The USDA Forest Service is seeking a complete set of crash-attenuating seat assemblies for an Airbus AS-332L1 Super Puma helicopter. This project involves two main phases: manufacturing all necessary parts and then assembling and installing them. The installation must be performed by an FAA Part 145 repair station with an Airframe Class 4 or Super Puma limited rating.

This is a sole-source procurement, meaning the agency intends to award the contract to Precision Integrated Programs, LLC. While this specific opportunity is not open for competitive bidding from other vendors, understanding the agency's needs for specialized equipment and certified installation services can inform future opportunities in aviation maintenance and parts manufacturing.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on September 02, 2026. The deadline for any inquiries or responses, if applicable for a sole-source notice, is September 21, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. The anticipated award date for this contract is October 1, 2026.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for Precision Integrated Programs, LLC, as it is a sole-source procurement. The work requires a firm with capabilities in manufacturing specialized aviation parts and holding an FAA Part 145 Certified Repair Station certificate with an Airframe Class 4 or Super Puma helicopter limited rating. It is not set aside for small businesses.

How to access the solicitation details

To view the original source of this opportunity, you would typically click the “View original source” link on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You might need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.

Practical tips for preparing competitive responses

Even for sole-source notices, it is good practice to review the details to understand agency requirements. For future competitive solicitations, always read the entire solicitation document carefully to understand all requirements, terms, and conditions. Pay close attention to the scope of work, delivery schedules, and any specific certifications or qualifications needed.

Ensure your proposal directly addresses every point in the solicitation. Clearly demonstrate how your firm meets all technical requirements, possesses the necessary experience, and holds any required certifications. For aviation-related work, highlighting FAA certifications and specific aircraft ratings is crucial. Always submit your response well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.