C17CSAE/706102450 Military Parachute Training (MPT) aircraft service UK

The Authority intends to contract for commercial fixed-wing aircraft services to conduct Military Parachute Training (MPT). This MPT will be based predominantly in the UK with the prospect of European MPT at some points during the contract. Please note the estimated value is inclusive of option years. The aircraft type must be able to carry a min of 20 x parachutists with full kit and be able to air despatch Low Level Parachutists and facilitate a portable oxygen (O2) capability for High-Altitude Parachutists (HAP) secured to the aircraft floor. The Authority envisages a five-year availability service with three, one-year contract options thereafter. The service should aim to deliver by Q1 2025, with an approved framework agreement between MAA, CAA and the Contractor to provide MPT. The contractor shall supply type-rated aircrew, engineers, fire & crash cover, medical cover when not provided by the Authority. The contractor shall maintain and sustain the aircraft with minimum reliance on the Authority. The contractor will also be required to base the aircraft at its own facility in Southern England and pick up parachutists from various pre-designated locations in the UK, predominantly from Brize Norton as a Main Operating Base. In addition to the UK operation, there is a requirement to support MPT in Europe (altitude assured) from the same aircraft, predominantly in Southern France. Whilst service levels may vary over the term of the contract, an initial Aircraft Flying Time of 900hrs per year is anticipated, with a minimum guaranteed service level set, and a contractual ability to surge if required by the Authority. Parachute training courses will take place at frequent intervals throughout the calendar year. The contractor will be required to airdrop parachutists, trained and despatched, by MOD personnel, using round and square parachutes to cover a variety of activities including Low Level (Static Line), via both side doors and tailgate ramp, and Medium and HAP freefall from a tailgate ramp from multiple heights up to 20,000 ft pressure altitude (PA). The parachuting platform should be a recognised parachute training aircraft able to operate by day and night.