Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to hire a helicopter with a complete crew to support biological surveys, management operations, mountain rescue operations, and aerial surveys in the KwaZulu-Natal region. The service aims to facilitate biodiversity conservation, monitor species such as vultures, conduct environmental assessments, and provide rescue services in challenging mountainous terrains over a period of five years.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Operating at varying altitudes (1600-3200m) for comprehensive biological and environmental surveys.
• Conducting aerial surveys of vulture nest sites in remote and inaccessible mountain areas, particularly in the Maloti and Drakensberg mountains.
• Performing mountain rescue operations at high altitudes (>9000 feet), including patient and personnel rescue with appropriate equipment and medical support.
• Surveying alien plant distribution within the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park.
• Providing services on short notice, including ferry and survey times, within the regulations of the South African Civil Aviation Authority and environmental laws.
• Ensuring all operations are conducted with qualified personnel, suitable equipment, and in compliance with legal and safety standards.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for bidders include:

• Registration of helicopters with valid certificates: Certificate of Registration, Certificate of Airworthiness, Civil Aviation Medical Certificate, ICASA Radio License, Mass and Balance Certificate.
• Provision of a helicopter capable of cargo sling operations, with sufficient power, lift capacity, range, and endurance for high-altitude and long-distance missions.
• Availability of onboard medical equipment (oxygen, defibrillators, first aid kits) and reliable communication systems (radio, intercom).
• Experience in high-altitude flight (>9000 ft), mountain rescue, and aerial census work.
• Provision of qualified pilots with at least 200 hours on type, 200 hours mountain flying, and specific experience in high-altitude operations and rescue missions.
• Compliance with all Civil Aviation Authority regulations and environmental laws.
• Insurance coverage including third-party liability (minimum R25 million), hull insurance, and indemnity to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.
• Availability of valid licenses and operational certificates, including Air Services License and Aerial Operating Certificate.
• Routine maintenance, safety inspections, and provision of fuel and spare parts by the bidder.

Skills Requirements

The skills and qualifications required from bidders include:

• Qualified pilots with valid commercial helicopter licenses, aerial census ratings, and experience in biological surveys, mountain rescue, and high-altitude flights.
• Experience in operating helicopters for biodiversity monitoring, environmental surveys, and rescue missions in mountainous terrains.
• Demonstrated ability to operate at high altitudes (>9000 ft) with search and rescue experience.
• Provision of references from previous clients confirming experience in helicopter services for similar operations within the last five years.
• Technical expertise in helicopter maintenance, safety compliance, and emergency medical support during rescue operations.
• Ability to respond promptly to short-notice requests and operate within legal and safety standards.