Objectives

The primary objectives of this tender are to procure helicopter leasing services to support the Gauteng Department of Community Safety’s operational needs, including law enforcement, surveillance, traffic monitoring, and related activities. The service provider must provide two (2) fully branded helicopters capable of operating 24/7, enhancing the Department’s capacity to combat crime and support other government agencies.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Leasing of two (2) six-seater helicopters (pilot plus five passengers) for a period of 36 months.
• Full branding of helicopters with Gauteng Traffic Police colours and insignia within 30 days of contract signing.
• Operational requirements such as configuration, seating arrangements, safety features, and equipment provision as specified.
• Provision of aircraft manuals, maintenance history, safety management system approval, and other certification documentation.
• Branding specifications including logos, reflective stripes, and durability standards.
• Facilities including hangars, maintenance, and operational control centers compliant with SACAA standards.
• Operational features such as thermal imaging, advanced sensors, and communication systems.
• Compliance with relevant acts and regulations, including SACAA, Civil Aviation Act, and environmental standards.

Technical Requirements

The helicopters must meet the following technical specifications:

• Configuration: 6 seats, with separate cargo compartment, foldable/removable rear seats, sliding door, flat floor.
• Performance: Minimum cruise speed of 130 KTS / 240 km/h; rate of climb of 1,350 ft/min; hover ceiling of 10,000 ft; external load capacity of 1200 kg; fuel capacity of at least 450L.
• Dimensions: Overall length ≥ 12.61 m; tail rotor diameter ≥ 1.65 m.
• Operational features: Thermal imaging with continuous optical zoom, HD color camera, laser range finder (up to 12 km), advanced sensors, and data links.
• Environmental standards: Compliance with MIL-STD 461, MIL-STD 810, RTCA DO-160.
• Control interfaces: RS422, RS232, video outputs (SMPTE HD, H.264 Ethernet).
• Branding: Must be fully branded with specified logos, reflective stripes, and tail wrap, durable for speeds over 250 km/h.

Skills and Experience Requirements

The service provider must demonstrate:

• Availability of at least 5 qualified pilots with valid SACAA ATPL(H) or CPL(H) licenses, medical certificates, and recent proficiency checks.
• Experience of pilots: Minimum 1500 flight hours on helicopters, with last five pages of logbooks submitted.
• Qualified engineers: Minimum 2 licensed aircraft maintenance engineers with at least 4 years’ experience on relevant helicopter types, supported by logbooks and certification.
• Operational facilities: Approved hangars, maintenance facilities, and a 24/7 flight operation control center compliant with SACAA standards.
• Proven experience in helicopter surveillance or law enforcement support services within the last 5 years, evidenced by testimonial/reference letters.
• Capability to provide detailed project implementation plans, including timelines and resource allocation.

Additional Requirements

• Compliance with all relevant aviation, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Provision of insurance coverage with minimum third-party liability of R50 million.
• Operational authorization from SACAA for 24/7 helicopter operations and law enforcement firearm carriage.
• Branding and surface preparation in accordance with aviation standards, including warranty and quality assurance.
• Participation in compulsory briefing sessions and site visits for verification.
• Submission of comprehensive financial statements, tax compliance certificates, and proof of business operations within Gauteng.
• Adherence to integrity, anti-corruption, and conflict of interest policies as per the Integrity Pact.