Forest Service awards $13.4M contract for helicopter support services in Utah
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $13,367,314 ($13.4M)
Contractor: Capitol Helicopters, Inc.
Awarding Agency: Department of Agriculture
Start Date: 2024-01-01
End Date: 2026-12-31
Sector: Other
Official Description: TYPE II HSS MATOC EU FOR MORGAN, UT #3
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Agriculture obligated $13.4 million to CAPITOL HELICOPTERS, INC. for work described as: TYPE II HSS MATOC EU FOR MORGAN, UT #3 Key points: 1. Contract supports critical aviation needs for wildfire suppression and other operations. 2. Competition was limited, with Capitol Helicopters, Inc. receiving the award. 3. Potential risks include reliance on a single provider and operational disruptions.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $13.4 million over three years appears reasonable for specialized aviation support. However, a detailed cost-benefit analysis would be needed to fully assess value for money.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: limited
The contract was awarded as a delivery order under a Type II HSS MATOC. While the specific competition details are not provided, the MATOC structure suggests some level of pre-competition.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being used to ensure essential aerial support for land management activities.
Public Impact
Ensures continued aerial support for wildfire management, protecting communities and natural resources. Supports critical infrastructure maintenance and other land management missions. Potential for delays in service if the contractor faces issues.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Limited competition could lead to higher costs over time.
- Dependence on a single contractor for critical services.
- Potential for service disruptions due to weather or mechanical issues.
Positive Signals
- Provides essential services for public safety and resource management.
- Supports ongoing operations for the Forest Service.
- Contract duration allows for stable planning and execution.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the broader sector of government aviation services, crucial for agencies managing large land areas and responding to emergencies like wildfires.
Small Business Impact
The contract was not set-aside for small businesses. Information on small business participation is not available from the provided data.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight will likely be managed by the Forest Service contracting officers and program managers. Regular performance reviews and adherence to delivery order terms are expected.
Related Government Programs
- Type II HSS MATOC
- Helicopter Support Services
- Wildfire Suppression Aviation
Risk Flags
- Limited competition
- Sole-source potential
- Operational risk
Tags
aviation-services, helicopter, forest-service, wildfire-suppression, utah, department-of-agriculture, delivery-order, matoc
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Agriculture awarded $13.4 million to CAPITOL HELICOPTERS, INC.. TYPE II HSS MATOC EU FOR MORGAN, UT #3
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is CAPITOL HELICOPTERS, INC..
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Agriculture (Forest Service).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $13.4 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2024-01-01. End: 2026-12-31.
Analysis insight 1
The MATOC structure implies a pre-qualified list of vendors, but the specific competition for this delivery order is unclear.
Analysis insight 2
The contract's focus on Utah suggests regional operational needs for the Forest Service.
Analysis insight 3
The duration of the contract allows for sustained support but also necessitates careful monitoring of performance and costs.