E6B In-Flight Trainer (IFT) Aircraft FY26-FY31

Quick Summary

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) PMA-226 is conducting a Sources Sought for Contractor Owned Government Operated (COGO) Boeing 737-Next Generation (NG) In-Flight Trainer (IFT) Aircraft to support E-6B Mercury pilot training from FY26 through FY31. This market research aims to identify qualified contractors capable of providing "turnkey" operational, logistical, and engineering services. Responses are due June 26, 2025.

Purpose & Scope

NAVAIR seeks to improve E-6B pilot training and reduce wear on the fleet by utilizing COGO 737-NG aircraft for regular landing practice and currency flights. The contractor will provide the aircraft (737-NG series -600/-700/-800/-900 with PFD/ND configuration) and all associated operational, logistical, and engineering support. This includes initial pilot differences training for 8-10 Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) instructors. Operations are planned to be based out of Tinker Air Force Base (KTIK) or Will Rogers Airport (OKC), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Required Capabilities

Contractors must demonstrate capabilities in:

• Aircraft Provision: Providing Boeing 737-NG series aircraft suitable for IFT missions, including FAA certification, and experience with Civil Aircraft Landing Permits (CALP), USN Airworthiness Civil Aircraft Operations (CAO)/Public Aircraft Operations (PAO) assessments, and USN Interim Flight Clearances (IFC).
• Operational Support: Delivering "turnkey" operational support for currency flights, adhering to specified operational tempo, sortie origination, and an 80% availability target, in compliance with FAR Part 91.
• Maintenance & Logistics: Maintaining the 737-NG airframe and engines per FAA practices (14 CFR Part 43), including scheduled/unscheduled maintenance, Airworthiness Directives (ADs), and Service Bulletins (SBs).
• Pilot Training: Providing qualified contractor pilots with 737-NG type ratings and instructor certifications.

Contract Details

• Type: Sources Sought (for market research and planning purposes only)
• Anticipated Period: Base year + four one-year options (FY26-FY31)
• NAICS: 488190 (Other Transportation Support Activities), Size Standard: 1,500 employees or $40 Million
• PSC: V121 (Air Charter For Things)
• Set-Aside: None specified; market research will determine potential small business set-aside or full and open competition. Small businesses are asked to explain their ability to meet the 50% performance rule.

Submission Requirements

Interested parties should submit a capability statement addressing:

• Company Profile: General information, business size, NAICS, SBA classification, major products, and interest as prime or subcontractor.
• Corporate Experience: Prior/current contracts of similar scope.
• Aircraft: Preferred aircraft, quantity for 2,400 flight hours/year, integration timelines, technical skills, FAA certification, CALP/CAO/PAO/IFC experience, technical risks, and OEM product sets.
• Mission Specifics: Facility ownership/lease near the operational radius.
• Cost: Cost drivers per flight hour, risks, estimated cost per FH, staffing forecast, and proposed monthly fixed/stand-up/flight minutes costs.
• Contracting Approach: Subcontracting needs, team management experience, and recommended contracting strategy/NAICS.

Submissions must be in Microsoft Word/Office compatible or PDF format, limited to specified page counts (Company Profile: 1 page, Capabilities: 10 pages), 12-point Times New Roman font, and emailed to the specified points of contact by June 26, 2025, at 04:00 PM EDT. Non-proprietary questions can be sent to Lauren Wright.