Inspection, Maintenance, and Repair of AC-9 Life Rafts
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 Department of the Air Force (DEPT OF DEFENSE) has published a Single Source Justification for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of AC-9 evacuation life rafts used on C-146 aircraft at Eglin AFB, FL. This justification explains the necessity of procuring these services from Air Cruisers Company, LLC dba Safran AeroSystems Evacuation due to the proprietary nature of the equipment and Safran's exclusive authorization for maintenance and certification.
Scope of Work
This justification covers the requirement for:
- Inspection, maintenance, and repair services for AC-9 evacuation life rafts.
- Certification of these life rafts according to manufacturer's Component Maintenance Manuals (CMMs).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Single Source Justification (for future sole-source contract action)
- Set-Aside: None (sole source)
- Published: April 15, 2026
Key Justification Points
- Proprietary Equipment: AC-9 life rafts are manufactured exclusively by Safran AeroSystems Evacuation.
- Exclusive Authorization: Safran is the sole entity authorized to perform maintenance and certification; no third-party vendors are permitted.
- Technical Data/Tooling: Safran does not distribute its proprietary technical data, tooling, or repair authority.
- Mission Criticality: Failure to maintain certification will ground C-146 aircraft, impacting mission readiness.
- Market Research: Previous market research identified no alternative vendors or authorized service providers.
Future Outlook
The Air Force will continue market research efforts to identify potential authorized service providers or resellers for future competition.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Liudmila "Lucia" Stidam at liudmila.stidam@us.af.mil.