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 its Tower Simulation System (TSS) Enhancement 2 (E2) program. The FAA plans to deploy 86 additional TSSs to improve air traffic controller training and certification. This notice specifically requests comments on the attached Statement of Objectives (SOO) and the TSS System Specification. Feedback is due by 12 PM Eastern on Thursday, February 5, 2026. This is NOT a Request for Proposal (RFP) or Request for Quote (RFQ).
Purpose & Scope
The TSS E2 program aims to accelerate controller training and address staffing shortages by providing high-fidelity air traffic control simulation. Key objectives outlined in the SOO include:
- Delivering high-fidelity simulation for ATCTs.
- Implementing virtual pilots capable of responding to spoken commands.
- Creating a digital repository for Visual Databases (VDBs) and training scenarios.
- Enabling remote instructor participation and automated student evaluation.
- Utilizing open standards, modular software architecture, and integrating with existing FAA systems.
- Providing real-time performance reporting and integrated logistics support.
- Accelerating VDB and scenario development, with installation of all 86 systems by May 2028.
The TSS System Specification details the functional, performance, design, and test requirements for the TSS E2. This includes specifications for system architecture, simulation of ATCT positions, dynamic weather, realistic aircraft models, visual and audio systems, voice recognition/synthesis, recording/playback, hardware, security, and performance metrics like reliability and maintainability. Solutions must align with FAA standards, use COTS hardware where possible, and comply with network, security, and federal law requirements.
Key Details
- Opportunity Type: Special Notice
- Department/Agency: Department of Transportation / Federal Aviation Administration
- Office: 693KA8 SYSTEM OPERATIONS CONTRACTS
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: February 5, 2026, 12 PM Eastern
- Published Date: January 30, 2026
- Contact: Manish Patel (manish.patel@faa.gov)
Important Notes
This announcement is for market research and feedback purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. The FAA will not pay for any information received, and costs incurred are solely at the vendor's expense. No evaluation of vendors will occur based on responses. Future acquisition details will be provided at a later date on SAM.gov, and interested parties are responsible for monitoring the website for updates. Proprietary or confidential information must be clearly marked.