Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a qualified service provider to supply helicopter support services at Marakele National Park for a period of one year. The services aim to enhance wildlife management activities such as anti-poaching, wildlife surveys, game capture, animal rescue, and other operational support functions essential for ecological and security interventions within the park.

Scope

The scope includes providing:

• One (1) helicopter on standby basis for a contract period of three (3) years.
• Helicopter services for wildlife support operations, including anti-poaching, animal capture, veterinary interventions, fire fighting, emergency response, and monitoring activities.
• Provision of specific helicopter types, including small turbine engine helicopters and four-seater piston engine helicopters similar to Raven II, equipped with communication systems, safety harnesses, and operational capabilities for wildlife darting and surveillance.
• Operational support such as standby pilots, maintenance, insurance, and backup helicopters if required.
• Services must be delivered in accordance with the technical specifications and legal requirements, including SACAA licensing and certification.

Technical Requirements

The technical criteria for the tender include:

• Valid Air Operating Certificate (AOC) and Air Services License (ASL) issued by SACAA, with the aircraft in the bidder’s name.
• Air Operations Specification (AOS) with General Air Service Class iii, Aircraft Category H2, and Types of Air Services G10.
• Proof of pilot flying hours: minimum of 1500 total helicopter hours, including at least 500 game rating hours and 500 pilot hours.
• Valid commercial helicopter pilot license, medical certificate, CRM certificate, and proof of insurance coverage (minimum R5,000,000 liability).
• Experience in wildlife support services, with at least 5 years of relevant operational experience.
• Provision of reference letters from previous clients, proof of helicopter ownership or lease agreements, and capacity to service the park with at least one helicopter (preferably two or more).
• Implementation plan demonstrating operational readiness, pilot experience, maintenance, standby arrangements, and previous project execution.
• Compliance with safety, insurance, and operational standards as per SACAA and SANParks requirements.

Skills Requirements

The skills and expertise required from the service provider include:

• Qualified pilots with extensive experience in helicopter operations, wildlife support, and darting activities.
• Certified aviation personnel with SACAA licenses and relevant operational certifications.
• Technical staff capable of maintaining helicopters to SACAA standards, including routine inspections and emergency repairs.
• Operational planning skills to ensure timely deployment, standby readiness, and backup arrangements.
• Experience in wildlife management activities such as animal capture, veterinary support, and anti-poaching operations.
• Ability to prepare and implement operational plans, safety procedures, and compliance documentation.