RT-372RT-372

HELICOPTER HELICOPTER PROGRAM PROGRAM UPDATESUPDATES

20082008

Aviation GovernanceAviation GovernanceWildland Fire Leadership

Council (WFLC)

Fire Executive Council (FEC)

National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG)

National Multi-Agency Coordinating (NMAC)

National Interagency Aviation Council (NIAC)

SMJ Aircraft Screening & Evaluation Board (SASEB)

Interagency SEAT Steering Committee

Interagency Airtanker Board

Interagency Aerial Supervision Steering

Committee

Interagency Airspace Steering Committee

Automated Flight Following Steering

Committee

Interagency Helicopter Operations SC (IHOps)

Interagency Aviation Training Steering Committee

IHOps Working GroupsIHOps Working GroupsIHOps Steering CommitteeVince Welbaum (pending)

208-387-5634

IHOG Working GroupDianne MacLean, FWS

907-260-5994

Rappel Working GroupKen Ross, USFS

541-504-7265

Aerial Ignition Working Group

Carl Romnes, BIA505-759-3963

Training Working GroupGlen Claypool, BLM

208-387-5160

ACETA Working GroupTimmy Bailey, NPS

808-357-2934

Short Haul Working GroupJohn Ziegler, NPS

559-565-3158

Training WG UpdatesTraining WG UpdatesA-219 external load operationsA-219 external load operations

Approved for IAT trainingApproved for IAT trainingAvailable for Fire Training, incorporated into S-Available for Fire Training, incorporated into S-

271- BLM & FS requires it for new HECM’s 271- BLM & FS requires it for new HECM’s reference FA IM-2007-030and 5109.17 for reference FA IM-2007-030and 5109.17 for complete details.complete details.

S-372 WG (NWCG) in process of re-writing S-372 WG (NWCG) in process of re-writing the course (BETA TESTING occurring FY08)the course (BETA TESTING occurring FY08)

RT-372 Field Managers Course Guide RT-372 Field Managers Course Guide Language added to specify the requirements Language added to specify the requirements

of a RT-372 classof a RT-372 class

http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/training/fmcg.pdfhttp://www.nwcg.gov/pms/training/fmcg.pdf

Training WG UpdatesTraining WG Updates IAT/NWCGIAT/NWCG

IAT is a Non-Fire aviation qualifications IAT is a Non-Fire aviation qualifications systemsystem

NWCG governs fire aviation qualificationsNWCG governs fire aviation qualificationsNWCG quals cross-over to IAT (reverse of that NWCG quals cross-over to IAT (reverse of that

is not true)is not true)IAT currency requirements have been IAT currency requirements have been

relaxed; many modules need be taken only relaxed; many modules need be taken only once.once.

Aerial Ignition WG UpdatesAerial Ignition WG UpdatesChair – Carl Romnes (BIA) Blain Moriarty Chair – Carl Romnes (BIA) Blain Moriarty

PENDING (AMD)PENDING (AMD)SEI Dragon Eggs (color change to orange & SEI Dragon Eggs (color change to orange &

white)white)Flash 21 liquid gelling agent working wellFlash 21 liquid gelling agent working wellSEI dispenser (Red Dragon) pending approvalSEI dispenser (Red Dragon) pending approvalNorthern Torch (Canadian) pending approval Northern Torch (Canadian) pending approval TNT Torch still pending approval TNT Torch still pending approval

2008 IAIG Revision pending2008 IAIG Revision pendingRevised PSD emergency proceduresRevised PSD emergency proceduresNew secondary restraint languageNew secondary restraint languageETC ETCETC ETC

ACETA WG UpdatesACETA WG UpdatesNew chair (Timmy Bailey, NPS)New chair (Timmy Bailey, NPS)Program activity continues in a variety of Program activity continues in a variety of

locationslocationsRevised ACETA Handbook Pending (FY08)Revised ACETA Handbook Pending (FY08)

Total Re-WriteTotal Re-WriteRevised standards of training and Revised standards of training and

qualifications for ACETA participants qualifications for ACETA participants (mugger, animal handler, etc)(mugger, animal handler, etc)

Rappel WG UpdatesRappel WG Updates Chair (Ken Ross, FS R-6)Chair (Ken Ross, FS R-6) Updates to the Rappel Guide due this springUpdates to the Rappel Guide due this spring Continued efforts towards standardizationContinued efforts towards standardization Approved the Large Klamath Bag and flight Approved the Large Klamath Bag and flight

limitations for external cargolimitations for external cargo Added Equipment Reporting ProtocolsAdded Equipment Reporting Protocols Adopted a Rope Security ProposalAdopted a Rope Security Proposal Adopted the Petzl Metolious Gloves for cargo Adopted the Petzl Metolious Gloves for cargo

letdownletdown Beginning review of Petzl ID descent control systemBeginning review of Petzl ID descent control system 300 ft cargo letdown line use approved300 ft cargo letdown line use approved RQ3 is no longer being tested or approved for useRQ3 is no longer being tested or approved for use

Shorthaul WG UpdatesShorthaul WG UpdatesChair (John Ziegler, NPS)Chair (John Ziegler, NPS)2008 Shorthaul Handbook revision in process2008 Shorthaul Handbook revision in processEstablishes standardized Practical Test CourseEstablishes standardized Practical Test CourseHoist Operations oversight added to WG dutiesHoist Operations oversight added to WG dutiesThe National Park Service has approved Short-The National Park Service has approved Short-

Haul for law enforcement operations. Haul for law enforcement operations. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are the

only currently approved programs at this time. only currently approved programs at this time. Will be adding the LE language to the Guide re-Will be adding the LE language to the Guide re-

writewrite

IHOG UpdatesIHOG UpdatesChair (Dianne MacLean, FWS)Chair (Dianne MacLean, FWS)Call for comments for New IHOG revision Call for comments for New IHOG revision

March 2009March 2009Accepting comments throughout 2008 Accepting comments throughout 2008

field seasonfield season

Current Electronic IHOG and forms Current Electronic IHOG and forms package @ package @ http://http://www.nifc.gov/ihogwww.nifc.gov/ihog//

Complete list of revisions available on-Complete list of revisions available on-line at:line at:

http://www.nifc.gov/ihog/pdf/2006Revisionshttp://www.nifc.gov/ihog/pdf/2006Revisions.pdf.pdf

Dianne MacLean FWSDianne MacLean FWS Cameron Dingman Cameron Dingman

BLMBLM John Cervantes BIAJohn Cervantes BIA

Bob Quirino USFSBob Quirino USFS Bill Schuster S&PFBill Schuster S&PF Meg Gallagher AMDMeg Gallagher AMD Carrie Vernon NPSCarrie Vernon NPS

IHOps WG UpdatesIHOps WG Updates IHOW meeting in Boise, March 11IHOW meeting in Boise, March 11thth - 13 - 13thth GS-07 Helitack squad leader PD GS-07 Helitack squad leader PD

submitted (again) for classification………submitted (again) for classification……… IHOps website up and running IHOps website up and running

http://www.nifc.gov/aviation/ihops/http://www.nifc.gov/aviation/ihops/

IHOps UpdatesIHOps Updates Updated Ch 70 of Military Use GuideUpdated Ch 70 of Military Use Guide JULY 2006 – NFES JULY 2006 – NFES

21752175

Does not apply to National Guard under State Does not apply to National Guard under State directiondirection

http://http://www.nifc.gov/nicc/logistics/references.htmwww.nifc.gov/nicc/logistics/references.htm Deleted Military Helicopter Manager (MHEM) replaced Deleted Military Helicopter Manager (MHEM) replaced

with HMGBwith HMGB Minimum of 1 HMGB required per 4 aircraft if there is a Minimum of 1 HMGB required per 4 aircraft if there is a

crew chief assigned and aircraft working off of the crew chief assigned and aircraft working off of the same basesame base

Cargo transport in accordance with military protocol, Cargo transport in accordance with military protocol, not IHOGnot IHOG

Deleted Military Aviation Operations Coordinator Deleted Military Aviation Operations Coordinator (MAOC) replaced with ASGS/HEB1(MAOC) replaced with ASGS/HEB1

Deleted Military Helicopter Manager Supervisor (MMS)Deleted Military Helicopter Manager Supervisor (MMS)HECM’s are not requiredHECM’s are not required

HELM/HELB will be consolidated with re-write of 2008 310-1HELM/HELB will be consolidated with re-write of 2008 310-1 HMGB would be ordered for all Helicopter Manager HMGB would be ordered for all Helicopter Manager

requestsrequests When HMGB are intended to be utilized for other missions When HMGB are intended to be utilized for other missions

they must be ordered with additional quals (ICT4, PLDO, they must be ordered with additional quals (ICT4, PLDO, Exclusive Use Pre-requisites) This would drive whether the Exclusive Use Pre-requisites) This would drive whether the individual needs an Arduous Fitness Ratingindividual needs an Arduous Fitness Rating

Federal Agencies accept State standards for State Federal Agencies accept State standards for State Managers with State Helicopters on Federal incidents. Managers with State Helicopters on Federal incidents.

Only fully qualified Helicopter Managers current in RT-372 Only fully qualified Helicopter Managers current in RT-372 (Triennial) can manage Federal helicopters(Triennial) can manage Federal helicopters

HMGB meets Single Resource requirement for ICT4HMGB meets Single Resource requirement for ICT4 Convert currently qualified HELB to HMGB upon meeting Convert currently qualified HELB to HMGB upon meeting

currency requirements of RT-372. After completion of S-currency requirements of RT-372. After completion of S-372 must attend RT-372 once every three years in order to 372 must attend RT-372 once every three years in order to manage Federal helicopters (Biennial for FS employees), manage Federal helicopters (Biennial for FS employees),

Convert current trainee HELB/HELM to HMGB(T)Convert current trainee HELB/HELM to HMGB(T)

IHOps UpdatesIHOps Updates

Airspace UpdatesAirspace Updates FY07 Revised Fire Traffic Area (FTA) depictionFY07 Revised Fire Traffic Area (FTA) depiction

Principles remain the samePrinciples remain the sameCall by 12nm, Hold at 7nm, etcCall by 12nm, Hold at 7nm, etcPower Point available at:Power Point available at:

http://http://www.blm.govwww.blm.gov Airspace, Airspace Education Airspace, Airspace Education FTA.pptFTA.ppt

http://http://airspace.nifc.govairspace.nifc.gov Best graphical TFR info availableBest graphical TFR info available Current Aeronautical ChartsCurrent Aeronautical Charts NOTAMsNOTAMs Flight PlanningFlight Planning

Logins and passwords at Logins and passwords at http://http://aviation.blm.govaviation.blm.gov , , Airspace, Airspace Planning, Flight Planning / Airspace, Airspace Planning, Flight Planning / Aeroplanner Aeroplanner

Airspace Airspace UpdatesUpdates

Helicopter Manager Position Helicopter Manager Position StandardsStandards

Resource (Project) Helicopter Manager - Resource (Project) Helicopter Manager - pre-requisite and training qualifications pre-requisite and training qualifications listed in IHOGlisted in IHOG

Exclusive Use – pre-requisite and training Exclusive Use – pre-requisite and training qualifications listed in Redbook chapter qualifications listed in Redbook chapter 17 (USFS, BLM, NPS, FWS), Bluebook 17 (USFS, BLM, NPS, FWS), Bluebook (BIA) and 5109.17 (FS)(BIA) and 5109.17 (FS)No changes to the 2007 matrix: (Other than No changes to the 2007 matrix: (Other than

name change to HMGR which is now actually name change to HMGR which is now actually HMGB)HMGB)

Exclusive Use Fire Helicopter Position Requisites

POSITION 1 MINIMUM PREREQUISITE

EXPERIENCE 2 MINIMUM REQUIRED

TRAINING 3 CURRENCY REQUIREMENTS

Fire Helicopter Crew Supervisor

One season4 as an Assistant Fire Helicopter Crew Supervisor ICT4, HELM, HEB2

RT-372 5,

Assistant Fire Helicopter Crew Supervisor

One season4 as a Fire Helicopter Squad Leader ICT4 HELB or HELM, HEB2 (T)

I-200, S-200, S-215, S-230, S-234, S-260, S-270, S-290, S-371, S-372

RT-3725,

Fire Helicopter Squad Leader

One season4 as a Fire Helicopter Crewmember FFT1, ICT5

S-131, S-133, S-211, S-212, S-281

S-2716

Fire Helicopter Crewmember

One season as a Firefighter FFT2 HECM Taskbook

I-100, S-130, S-190, S-271

S-2716

6Must receive S-271 or serve as S-271 instructor once every three years. Note: Exceptions to the above position standards may be granted, on a case-by-case basis, by the BLM National Aviation Office, NPS Regional Office or FWS Regional Office, as appropriate. Some positions may be designated as COR/Alternate-COR. If so, see individual Agency COR

training & currency requirements. Fire Helicopter Managers (HELM) are fully qualified to perform all the duties associated with

Resource Helicopter Manager.

Pilot Duty Limitations have been removed from Pilot Duty Limitations have been removed from the Mob Guide and now resides in the Red Bookthe Mob Guide and now resides in the Red Book Phase 1 -- Normal OperationsPhase 1 -- Normal OperationsPhase 2 – Additional Day Off Phase 2 – Additional Day Off Phase 3 – Restrict Duty (12 hours) along with Phase 3 – Restrict Duty (12 hours) along with

providing for an additional day off.providing for an additional day off.Duty limitations can be implemented at either the Duty limitations can be implemented at either the

Geographic or National Level. Geographic or National Level. Read Chapter 16 of the Red Book for specificsRead Chapter 16 of the Red Book for specifics

http://www.nifc.gov/red_book/index.htmhttp://www.nifc.gov/red_book/index.htm

Interagency Interim Flight and Interagency Interim Flight and Duty LimitationsDuty Limitations

Helibase Crash/RescueHelibase Crash/Rescue IHOps Task Group drafted minimum IHOps Task Group drafted minimum

standards for EERA Crash Rescue Units:standards for EERA Crash Rescue Units:Vehicle capacity & capability requirementsVehicle capacity & capability requirementsPersonnel Training & QualificationsPersonnel Training & QualificationsPersonal Protective EquipmentPersonal Protective Equipment

Standards were tested in select Standards were tested in select Emergency Equipment Rental Agreement Emergency Equipment Rental Agreement language in 2005language in 2005

National effort to finalize Standards for National effort to finalize Standards for Crash Rescue Vehicles underway through Crash Rescue Vehicles underway through the Fire Equipment Working Teamthe Fire Equipment Working Team

Computer Based Training (CBT) for Computer Based Training (CBT) for Firefighting PilotsFirefighting Pilots

On-Line registration, training, testing, On-Line registration, training, testing, cert.cert.

Content: fire behavior, tactics, ICS & fire Content: fire behavior, tactics, ICS & fire organizations, terminology, FTA, contract organizations, terminology, FTA, contract administration, communications, etc.administration, communications, etc.

CBT will be pre-requisite to obtaining pilot CBT will be pre-requisite to obtaining pilot qualification card for fire missionsqualification card for fire missions

Helicopter CBT implementation in 2008 Helicopter CBT implementation in 2008 contracts…..contracts…..

https://www.iat.gov/online.asphttps://www.iat.gov/online.asp

Helicopter Efficiency CoordinatorHelicopter Efficiency Coordinator

Position instituted in 2003. Works directly Position instituted in 2003. Works directly for NICC/National MACfor NICC/National MAC

Purpose: increase efficient mobilization and Purpose: increase efficient mobilization and utilization of helicopters and personnel for utilization of helicopters and personnel for large fire support and Initial Attacklarge fire support and Initial Attack

Tracks utilization of Exclusive Use & CWNTracks utilization of Exclusive Use & CWNMakes recommendations for cost-efficiencyMakes recommendations for cost-efficiencyDocumented savings justify continual needDocumented savings justify continual needCreated a FTE position, PD into HR for Created a FTE position, PD into HR for

classification (GS-11/12) and recruit/fill in classification (GS-11/12) and recruit/fill in 2008 2008

AFF and Aircraft AvailabilityAFF and Aircraft Availability

If AFF becomes inoperable (for any reason), consider the following:

1)1) Notify the COR and document on Contract Daily Diary Notify the COR and document on Contract Daily Diary and SAFECOM. COR needs to contact the CO and discuss.and SAFECOM. COR needs to contact the CO and discuss.

2)2) Many factors will be taken into account:Many factors will be taken into account:o Is this the first occurrence of AFF problems with this Is this the first occurrence of AFF problems with this

aircraft vendor?aircraft vendor?o Is the problem associated with the onboard AFF Is the problem associated with the onboard AFF

equipment, the service provider, the AFF server, or ???equipment, the service provider, the AFF server, or ???o Is the aircraft vendor actively engaged in trying to fix Is the aircraft vendor actively engaged in trying to fix

the problem/restore service?the problem/restore service?3)3) Each occurrence must be evaluated individually and Each occurrence must be evaluated individually and

decided by the COR/CO, including establishing timeframe decided by the COR/CO, including establishing timeframe to resolve.to resolve.

4)4) Aircraft will normally remain available for service, Aircraft will normally remain available for service, utilizing Radio/Voice systems for flight followingutilizing Radio/Voice systems for flight following. .

USFS National Aviation Systems Safety USFS National Aviation Systems Safety TeamTeam

5 team positions to be created to consist of:5 team positions to be created to consist of: Program Leader (Sponsor) – Ron HanksProgram Leader (Sponsor) – Ron Hanks ASI Helicopter/AirplaneASI Helicopter/Airplane ASI Airplane/HelicopterASI Airplane/Helicopter ASI MaintenanceASI Maintenance ASI Human FactorsASI Human Factors

Provides agency support in the following areas:Provides agency support in the following areas: aviation systems safety processesaviation systems safety processes mishap investigationmishap investigation aviation program risk assessmentaviation program risk assessment safety data analysissafety data analysis aviation safety trainingaviation safety training site reviewssite reviews regulatory reviewregulatory review planning for flight operationsplanning for flight operations human factors/performance analysis and associated traininghuman factors/performance analysis and associated training

System Safety 2007System Safety 2007

What was accomplished in 2007.What was accomplished in 2007.Completed 5 new assessments.Completed 5 new assessments.Revised one assessment.Revised one assessment. Identified “common hazards” between Identified “common hazards” between

the assessments.the assessments.Compiled an Executive Summary.Compiled an Executive Summary. Identified National Hazard Mitigation Identified National Hazard Mitigation

priorities.priorities.Started the Interagency education Started the Interagency education

process.process.

System Safety 2008System Safety 2008

* Assessment updates started January 14.* Assessment updates started January 14.* SME groups will include industry pilots.* SME groups will include industry pilots.Potential new assessments to include: Potential new assessments to include:

Smokejumper operations, Emergency Smokejumper operations, Emergency Helicopter Evacuation Long Line Helicopter Evacuation Long Line operations (EHELL), and Forest Health operations (EHELL), and Forest Health Protection.Protection.

Continue to work towards a Aviation Continue to work towards a Aviation “Lessons Learned” web site.“Lessons Learned” web site.

All completed assessments to be formed All completed assessments to be formed into a Aviation System Safety Guide.into a Aviation System Safety Guide.

Safety UpdateSafety Update

http://amd.nbc.gov/safety/library.hthttp://amd.nbc.gov/safety/library.htmm

http://http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/av_safetywww.fs.fed.us/fire/av_safety//

Interagency Safety AlertInteragency Safety Alert Interagency Lessons LearnedInteragency Lessons Learned Agency Specific Safety AlertAgency Specific Safety Alert Interagency Technical AlertInteragency Technical Alert USFS Technical AlertUSFS Technical Alert DOI Tech BulletinDOI Tech Bulletin DOI Aviation Accident Prevention BulletinDOI Aviation Accident Prevention Bulletin

Interagency Safety AlertInteragency Safety AlertIA 07-02 IA 07-02 Subject:Subject: Retardant Dip Tanks Retardant Dip Tanks1) Inform all helicopter flight crews and Incident 1) Inform all helicopter flight crews and Incident

Command Teams of the snagging hazard Command Teams of the snagging hazard presented by certain dip tank frames.presented by certain dip tank frames.

2) Inspect all portable retardant tanks prior to use 2) Inspect all portable retardant tanks prior to use for protrusions and snagging hazards.for protrusions and snagging hazards.

3) Ensure that there are NO rings or protrusions 3) Ensure that there are NO rings or protrusions around the perimeter of the tank that a snorkel around the perimeter of the tank that a snorkel or bucket can “catch”. Remove the hazard or or bucket can “catch”. Remove the hazard or shield it from the snorkel/bucket assembly.shield it from the snorkel/bucket assembly.

4)4) If hazardous tank assemblies are found If hazardous tank assemblies are found, , require the vendor or the appropriate authority require the vendor or the appropriate authority (if government owned) to provide appropriate (if government owned) to provide appropriate modifications before use.modifications before use.

Interagency Lessons LearnedInteragency Lessons Learned

07-0107-01Interagency Aviation Lessons LearnedInteragency Aviation Lessons Learned

07-0307-03Plastic Sphere DispensingPlastic Sphere Dispensing

07-0407-04Unnecessary Risk Taking as Normal BehaviorUnnecessary Risk Taking as Normal Behavior

07-0507-05Aviation Flight and Maintenance OperationsAviation Flight and Maintenance Operations

Interagency Technical AlertInteragency Technical Alert

IA 07-01IA 07-01

SUBJECT:SUBJECT: CHECKLIST DISCIPLINE CHECKLIST DISCIPLINEAppropriate checklists are printed for Appropriate checklists are printed for

each aircraft. These checklists are each aircraft. These checklists are sequenced and provide guidance for each sequenced and provide guidance for each phase of flight. Use the written checklist phase of flight. Use the written checklist for each phase of flight.for each phase of flight.

USE THE CHECKLIST!!!USE THE CHECKLIST!!!

Interagency Technical AlertInteragency Technical Alert

IA 07-02IA 07-02SUBJECT:SUBJECT: Weight Reduction for Bell-407 Weight Reduction for Bell-407

Aircraft Equipped with High Skid GearAircraft Equipped with High Skid GearSubtract 50 pounds (22.68 kilograms) from Subtract 50 pounds (22.68 kilograms) from

IGE hover gross weight for takeoff power IGE hover gross weight for takeoff power or maximum continuous power.or maximum continuous power.

This reduction is in addition to the 155-This reduction is in addition to the 155-pound weight reduction required on the pound weight reduction required on the Interagency Helicopter Load Calculation Interagency Helicopter Load Calculation Method required by most agencies. This Method required by most agencies. This affects HIGE performance of all BH-407 affects HIGE performance of all BH-407 aircraft equipped with high skid gear.aircraft equipped with high skid gear.

IA 07- 03IA 07- 03

SUBJECT:SUBJECT: Restriction on Restricted Restriction on Restricted Category Aircraft Carrying Category Aircraft Carrying Passengers or CargoPassengers or Cargo

Why are these limitations imposed? Why are these limitations imposed? Restricted category aircraft are Restricted category aircraft are certificated based on demonstrated levels certificated based on demonstrated levels of safety, and are expected to be safe for of safety, and are expected to be safe for their intended use. Restricted Category their intended use. Restricted Category aircraft aircraft may not:may not:Carry our peopleCarry our peopleCarry our cargo internallyCarry our cargo internally

Interagency Technical AlertInteragency Technical Alert

USFS Policy UpdatesUSFS Policy Updates5109.17 has been revised:5109.17 has been revised:

Helispot Manager position removed from 5109.17Helispot Manager position removed from 5109.17 mnemonic to be removed from IQCS list in near mnemonic to be removed from IQCS list in near

futurefuture STL/TFL requirements for HLCO now the same as STL/TFL requirements for HLCO now the same as

310-1310-1 FS has adopted Interagency Aviation Training (IAT)FS has adopted Interagency Aviation Training (IAT) Managers, supervisors and employees shall use the Managers, supervisors and employees shall use the

Interagency Aviation Training Guide (FSM 5706) to Interagency Aviation Training Guide (FSM 5706) to determine minimum course and currency determine minimum course and currency requirements at the full performance level for all requirements at the full performance level for all Forest Service personnel involved in aviation Forest Service personnel involved in aviation operations.operations.

All aviation-related Incident Command System (ICS) All aviation-related Incident Command System (ICS) position qualifications are governed by FSH 5109.17, position qualifications are governed by FSH 5109.17, Fire and Aviation Management Qualifications Fire and Aviation Management Qualifications Handbook. Handbook.

USFS Policy UpdatesUSFS Policy Updates

Automated Business Systems Automated Business Systems (ABS) :(ABS) :

Any and All US Forest Service Aviation Any and All US Forest Service Aviation ContractsContractsHelicopter ManagersHelicopter ManagersAir AttacksAir AttacksTanker Base ManagersTanker Base ManagersForest Health Forest Health Contracting Officers/ RepsContracting Officers/ RepsAlbuquerque Service Center (ASC)Albuquerque Service Center (ASC)ContractorsContractors

* Working Capital Fund Aircraft in 2008/ 2009

ABS (cont.)ABS (cont.)

Paperless Electronic SystemPaperless Electronic SystemData Entry Program For Electronic Data Entry Program For Electronic

Tracking And PaymentTracking And PaymentProvide More Accurate And Prompt Provide More Accurate And Prompt

PaymentPaymentUp To Date Reporting System Up To Date Reporting System

USFS Helicopter Program USFS Helicopter Program UpdatesUpdates

Rope Assisted Deployment System (RADS) –Rope Assisted Deployment System (RADS) – Test has been taking place in Region 5Test has been taking place in Region 5 Been in testing phase for 4 yearsBeen in testing phase for 4 years Operational for 3 yearsOperational for 3 years

Competitive SourcingCompetitive Sourcing We will obey the language in the 08 Omnibus Bill We will obey the language in the 08 Omnibus Bill

directing that no money be spent in 2008 for A-76 directing that no money be spent in 2008 for A-76 studies – what many of you may hear called studies – what many of you may hear called competitive sourcing activities. competitive sourcing activities.

USFS Helicopter Program USFS Helicopter Program UpdatesUpdates

+/- 60 Regional T3 exclusive use helicopters for +/- 60 Regional T3 exclusive use helicopters for 20082008

Total of 68 National exclusive use helicopters Total of 68 National exclusive use helicopters for 2008for 2008 34 type 1 (identified as “The Big 34 National”)34 type 1 (identified as “The Big 34 National”) 9 type 2 (regional IA)9 type 2 (regional IA) 25 type 2 (national/regional)25 type 2 (national/regional)

Funding for staffing for Funding for staffing for “The Big 34 National” “The Big 34 National” helicopters is assured at this timehelicopters is assured at this time

USFS Contract UpdatesUSFS Contract Updates Exclusive Use “The Big 34” for 2008Exclusive Use “The Big 34” for 2008

Canceled 2007 “Big 35” contractCanceled 2007 “Big 35” contract Changed “Designated Base” to “Host Base”Changed “Designated Base” to “Host Base” Increased Contract length to one base year with 3 Increased Contract length to one base year with 3

renewal optionsrenewal options Three levels of performance specsThree levels of performance specs 100 hr. scheduled maintenance time off increased to 100 hr. scheduled maintenance time off increased to

1 full calendar day paid1 full calendar day paid Vendor will be able to take 2 non paid penalty free Vendor will be able to take 2 non paid penalty free

days off for scheduled maintenance that will NOT days off for scheduled maintenance that will NOT count against performance clausecount against performance clause

Added option to have a Trainer/Trainee pilotAdded option to have a Trainer/Trainee pilot All A/C to have GPS Moving Map DisplayAll A/C to have GPS Moving Map Display

USFS Contract Updates USFS Contract Updates (cont.)(cont.) Exclusive Use “The Big 34” Exclusive Use “The Big 34” And CWNAnd CWN for 2008 for 2008

Vendor must identify work schedule (e.g.; 12/2, Vendor must identify work schedule (e.g.; 12/2, 12/12, 12/6)12/12, 12/6)

Added “For longline and bucket operations rotors will Added “For longline and bucket operations rotors will remain above the canopy or operate in an opening remain above the canopy or operate in an opening no less than 1 ½ times the main rotor diameter”no less than 1 ½ times the main rotor diameter”

Added language clarifying pilot days off 2 in 14 cycle Added language clarifying pilot days off 2 in 14 cycle when not taken concurrentwhen not taken concurrent

Changed language in approved HOGE performance Changed language in approved HOGE performance specific to the KMAXspecific to the KMAX

A/C must be weighed prior to submission of BidA/C must be weighed prior to submission of Bid Changed maximum crew compliment from 12 to 10Changed maximum crew compliment from 12 to 10 Vendors must now have a Spill Prevention, Control Vendors must now have a Spill Prevention, Control

and Countermeasure (SPCC) planand Countermeasure (SPCC) plan Left seat STC’s or 337 will require bubble window Left seat STC’s or 337 will require bubble window

and operational gaugesand operational gauges

USFS Contract Updates USFS Contract Updates (cont.)(cont.)

Exclusive Use Type II for 2008Exclusive Use Type II for 2008All of the Bullets on the previous two slides plus:All of the Bullets on the previous two slides plus:This contract is one year with one optionThis contract is one year with one optionMinimum of 120 day MAPMinimum of 120 day MAPStandardized Rappel Contract SpecsStandardized Rappel Contract SpecsPerformance Specs of 7000’ and 20c with 1650 Performance Specs of 7000’ and 20c with 1650

lbs. HOGE (internal)lbs. HOGE (internal)Provisions included for specific base and Regional Provisions included for specific base and Regional

needs (Tank, over water, A/C markings, etc…)needs (Tank, over water, A/C markings, etc…)Avionics package standardized (#, type, location)Avionics package standardized (#, type, location)Type III template updated & mirrors Type 1 & 2Type III template updated & mirrors Type 1 & 2

BLM Policy UpdatesBLM Policy Updates2008 BLM National Aviation Plan (NAP)2008 BLM National Aviation Plan (NAP)

Available mid MarchAvailable mid Marchhttp://www.aviation.blm.gov/admin.htmhttp://www.aviation.blm.gov/admin.htmEmphasis on utilization of BLM procured Emphasis on utilization of BLM procured

aircraft to increase efficiency and effectivenessaircraft to increase efficiency and effectivenessWild Horse & Burro HB revision pending Wild Horse & Burro HB revision pending

(Still)(Still)Departmental Manuals (DM’s) revision Departmental Manuals (DM’s) revision

pending (Still) pending (Still) Unclear when new DM’s will be issuedUnclear when new DM’s will be issuedOPM’s to be re-issued under old authorityOPM’s to be re-issued under old authorityWhen DM’s are released, OPM’s will be re-When DM’s are released, OPM’s will be re-

issued to reflect changesissued to reflect changes

BLM Helicopter Program UpdatesBLM Helicopter Program UpdatesYet another Budget reduction in 2008 Yet another Budget reduction in 2008

however it did not impact the Helicopter however it did not impact the Helicopter ProgramProgram

2008 ex-use FIRE fleet overall #’s same as 072008 ex-use FIRE fleet overall #’s same as 07Continued platform performance upgradesContinued platform performance upgrades

Three T3 Helos upgraded to T2 Three T3 Helos upgraded to T2 9 type II (4 in Fairbanks, Apple Valley, Twin Falls, 9 type II (4 in Fairbanks, Apple Valley, Twin Falls,

Boise, Burns and Lakeview)Boise, Burns and Lakeview)15 type III15 type III

2008 ex-use helicopter Resource helicopters2008 ex-use helicopter Resource helicopters5 type III (all Alaska)5 type III (all Alaska)

2009 Out year Budget still unclear2009 Out year Budget still unclear

BLM Exclusive Use contract extensions to BLM Exclusive Use contract extensions to be executed using be executed using nationalnational severity severity number. number.

All BLM severity aircraft to be hired on All BLM severity aircraft to be hired on nationalnational severity number.severity number.

DOI On CALL (CWN) contracts will be DOI On CALL (CWN) contracts will be available for Air Attack and T-3 available for Air Attack and T-3 Helicopters (NO ARA for Fire)Helicopters (NO ARA for Fire)

BLM Helicopter Program Updates BLM Helicopter Program Updates (Cont.)(Cont.)

ST GEORGE

WEAVER MT

APPLE VALLEY

RAVENDALE

LAS VEGAS

ELY

ELKO

LAKEVIEW

RIFLE

PRINEVILLE

BURNSVALE

BOISE

TWIN FALLS

LEWISTOWN

FT HOWES

BLM FIRE HELICOPTERS 2008

TYPE II (9)

TYPE III (14)

ALASKA FIRE SERVICE

MOAB

SALT LAKE

RAWLINS

TYPE III USFS/BLM (1)

Flight Hours - 2007Flight Hours - 2007

USFSUSFS BLM BLM Rotor WingRotor Wing 41,571 hrs41,571 hrs 9,957 hrs9,957 hrs Fixed WingFixed Wing 29,631 hrs29,631 hrs 9,568 hrs9,568 hrs Fixed Wing (leased)Fixed Wing (leased) 2,895 hrs 2,895 hrs 1,6431,643

hrshrs Fleet (owned)Fleet (owned) 4,909 hrs 4,909 hrs 506 hrs506 hrs AirtankersAirtankers 5,641 hrs 5,641 hrs includedincluded SEAT SEAT 628 hrs 628 hrs 6,581 hrs6,581 hrs Water ScoopersWater Scoopers 0 hrs0 hrs 350 hrs350 hrs

TOTALTOTAL 85,275 hrs85,275 hrs28,099 hrs28,099 hrs

2007 SAFECOM Summary2007 SAFECOM Summary

USFSUSFS BLMBLM

TotalTotal 620620 158158

Approx 63% of all SAFECOMs were Approx 63% of all SAFECOMs were Helicopter related, of whichHelicopter related, of whichHazards 34%Hazards 34%Incidents 17%Incidents 17%Maintenance 41%Maintenance 41%Misc 8%Misc 8%

USFS USFS BLMBLM

Incident With Potential Incident With Potential (IWP)(IWP)

HelicoptersHelicopters 11 00Fixed WingFixed Wing 00 00SEATSEAT 22 00

AccidentsAccidents 77 11Fixed WingFixed Wing 11 00SEATSEAT 22 11Helicopters Helicopters (All Human Error)(All Human Error) 4 4 00

MT - UH-1H - Long line cargo deliveryMT - UH-1H - Long line cargo delivery ID – 214 – bucket operationID – 214 – bucket operationCA – 205 - Long line cargo deliveryCA – 205 - Long line cargo deliveryCA - S64E – Dynamic Roll-overCA - S64E – Dynamic Roll-over

2007 IWP’s and Accidents2007 IWP’s and Accidents