FAA Tower Simulation System E2 - Statement of Objectives
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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Special Notice seeking industry feedback on a Statement of Objectives (SOO) for the Tower Simulation System (TSS) Enhancement 2 (E2) program. The FAA plans to acquire and deploy 86 additional high-fidelity TSSs to accelerate air traffic controller training and improve system capabilities. This is not a Request for Proposal (RFP) or Quote (RFQ), but a market research effort to refine future requirements.
Purpose & Scope
The FAA aims to enhance controller training and certification by deploying 86 new TSSs by May 2028. The TSS E2 program seeks innovative solutions for simulator operation and related services. Key objectives include:
- Providing high-fidelity air traffic control simulation at FAA ATCT sites.
- Implementing realistic virtual pilots to eliminate Remote Pilot Operators (RPOs).
- Creating a digital repository for Visual Databases (VDBs) and training scenarios.
- Enabling remote instructor participation and automated student evaluation.
- Ensuring open standards, modular software design, and integration with existing FAA systems.
- Delivering integrated logistics support (help desk, maintenance, depot).
- Accelerating VDB and scenario development with specific timelines.
- Achieving operating efficiencies and completing installations by May 2028.
Constraints & Requirements
Solutions must align with FAA standards, utilize Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) hardware where possible, and comply with FAA network, security, and performance requirements. The FAA will provide training sites, space, utilities, network connectivity, and access to existing VDB libraries. The vendor will be responsible for depot/logistics, test bed, and offsite help desk facilities.
Contract Details
- Type: Special Notice / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: February 5, 2026, by 12 PM Eastern
- Published: January 29, 2026
- Agency: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation
- Place of Performance: FAA facilities and remote locations (vendor facilities for support)
Action Items
Industry is invited to provide comments and feedback on the attached SOO to help the FAA refine its requirements. Feedback should address clarity, content, and recommended improvements.
Submission Instructions
Submit feedback via email to the Contracting Officer, Manish Patel, at manish.patel@faa.gov by the deadline. Proprietary or confidential information must be clearly marked. This notice does not obligate the FAA to acquire services or pay for response costs. A future solicitation, if issued, will be announced on SAM.gov.