USAFA Aircraft Static Display Washing and Painting Services Sources Sought
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 U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) is conducting a Sources Sought for Aircraft Static Display Washing and Painting Services at USAF Academy, CO. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside for market research purposes only, not a request for proposals. Responses are due by May 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM MDT.
Purpose
The USAFA History Office (HO) is seeking information from potential sources to provide comprehensive washing and painting services for its static display aircraft collection. This notice is for planning and informational purposes only; the government is not soliciting proposals or paying for information provided.
Scope of Work
Services include both routine washing and comprehensive exterior restoration:
- Aircraft Washing: Removal of residue, bird feces, oils, and debris. Includes cleaning lights, signage, and surrounding areas. High-pressure washing (over 200 PSI) for B-52, T-38, and A-10 aircraft, and low-pressure (175-200 PSI) for others. Application of liquid wax for protection. Washing occurs up to twice annually (spring and fall) using specified cleaning agents (e.g., Arrow Magnolia CD-3340 Fleet Wash with Corrosion X).
- Aircraft Painting: Full exterior restoration, including stripping airframes, debris removal, structural repairs, and bird-proofing. Work must comply with USAF Technical Orders 1-1-8 and 1-1-4, and FAA Advisory Circular 43.13-1B. Requires application of primer and high-grade 2K high-solids urethane coatings (e.g., PPG AUE-360/AUE-3501). Paint schemes, decals, and markings must adhere to Federal Standard 595. The contractor must guarantee workmanship for three years and protect adjacent landscaping. Painting occurs approximately every five years.
Key Aircraft: Services will cover a variety of aircraft including A-10 Warthog, B-52 Stratofortress, F-4 Phantom, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-100 Super Saber, F-105 Thunder Chief, T-38 Talon, T-41 Cessna, HH-3E Helicopter, and SV5J Lifting Body.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- NAICS Code: 488190 (Aircraft Maintenance and Repair Services) with a $40 Million size standard. Other NAICS suggestions are welcome.
- Place of Performance: USAF Academy, CO 80840.
- Delivery: FOB Destination.
- Anticipated Duration: Up to five years.
- Contract Type: To be determined.
Submission Requirements
Interested parties should submit a capabilities package (not exceeding 5 pages) addressing:
- UEI, CAGE Code, Small Business Designation, and SAM expiration date.
- Past performance on similar services, including Federal Contract numbers.
- Foreign-owned/controlled firm status and use of foreign national employees.
- Brief demonstration of ability to meet requirements.
- Delineation of teaming/subcontracting arrangements and prior experience.
- Specific statement of capability for washing, painting, or both.
- Required management and labor provision; anticipated subcontracting percentages.
Deadlines & Contact Information
- Responses Due: May 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM MDT.
- Submission Method: Email responses to Mikayla Brandt (mikayla.brandt@us.af.mil) AND Kenneth Helgeson (kenneth.helgeson.3@us.af.mil). Telephone responses will not be accepted.
- Note: All contractors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).