CanadaBuys #5P420-26-0002

Helicopter Services for Whooping Crane Monitoring in Wood Buffalo National Park

Parks Canada Agency is seeking Canadian suppliers to provide helicopter services supporting Whooping Crane monitoring and recovery in Wood Buffalo National Park and adjacent areas. - Government Buyer: - Parks Canada Agency (National Contracting Services, Calgary, AB) - OEMs and Vendors Mentioned: - Airbus Helicopters (OEM for EC120 and AS350B2 helicopters) - Products/Services Requested: - Provision of one EC120 and one AS350B2 helicopter, each meeting specific technical and safety requirements - EC120: Onboard navigation (capable of geospatial data file downloads), 300 kg load, 3 passengers, intercoms, 120V power outlet - AS350B2: Onboard navigation, 500 kg load, 5 passengers, external basket, intercoms, 120V power outlet - Helicopter flight hours: - EC120: 60 hours (plus 14 optional), including nest and juvenile surveys - AS350B2: 60 hours, including deployment/retrieval of monitoring equipment and juvenile crane capture/banding - Mobilization and demobilization services for both helicopters - Pilots with specialized experience: - Minimum 2,000 flight hours as rotary wing commander - 500 hours on same class, 50 hours on same type in last 12 months - 40 hours wildlife survey experience; additional requirements for AS350B2 pilot (waterfowl capture, landings in remote terrain) - Optional services: Pine Point mine surveys, additional equipment deployment/retrieval - Reimbursable travel and fuel expenses - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Only Canadian suppliers eligible (Policy on Reciprocal Procurement) - Simultaneous operation of two helicopters - Compliance with Transport Canada regulations and National Park Act - Principal base of operations: Fort Smith, NT; work in Wood Buffalo National Park and adjacent regions - Cost-reimbursable contract with firm unit prices for flight hours and mobilization - Contract duration up to 10 months, with option to extend to March 31, 2028

Description

Parks Canada Agency is soliciting proposals for helicopter services to support monitoring and recovery efforts for Whooping Cranes in Wood Buffalo National Park and adjacent areas. The contract includes aerial surveys in 2026 and 2027 to locate nests and juveniles, with optional services such as surveys of the Pine Point mine, deployment and retrieval of monitoring equipment, and capture and banding of juvenile cranes. The contract duration is up to 10 months, with an option to extend to March 31, 2028. Bids must be submitted via fax or email by May 1, 2026, and only Canadian suppliers are eligible due to reciprocal procurement policy.

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