DOT's FAA Awards $19.3K for Cirrus SF50 Pilot Training to Cirrus Design Corp

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $19,256 ($19.3K)

Contractor: Cirrus Design Corporation

Awarding Agency: Department of Transportation

Start Date: 2026-04-02

End Date: 2026-12-19

Contract Duration: 261 days

Daily Burn Rate: $74/day

Competition Type: NOT COMPETED

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: CIRRUS SF50 OUT OF AGENCY PILOT TRAINING

Place of Performance

Location: HERMANTOWN, SAINT LOUIS County, MINNESOTA, 55811

State: Minnesota Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Transportation obligated $19,255.5 to CIRRUS DESIGN CORPORATION for work described as: CIRRUS SF50 OUT OF AGENCY PILOT TRAINING Key points: 1. The contract is for specialized flight training on the Cirrus SF50 aircraft. 2. Competition was limited as the award went directly to the aircraft manufacturer. 3. The firm fixed price contract aims to control costs for this specific training. 4. This training is crucial for pilots operating advanced aircraft like the SF50.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The contract value is relatively low at $19,255.50. Without specific benchmarks for this niche training, it's difficult to definitively assess pricing. However, direct awards to manufacturers can sometimes be higher than competitive bids.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: limited

This contract was not competed, likely due to the specialized nature of the training and the direct relationship with the aircraft manufacturer. This limits price discovery and potentially leads to a higher cost than a competitive process.

Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are used for specialized pilot training. While necessary for operational readiness, the lack of competition warrants scrutiny to ensure value for money.

Public Impact

Ensures FAA pilots are proficient in operating advanced aircraft. Supports the safe and effective use of government aviation assets. Direct award to manufacturer may limit broader market engagement for training services.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Lack of competition
Potential for higher pricing due to sole-source nature

Positive Signals

Essential training for pilot proficiency
Clear contract duration and fixed price

Sector Analysis

This contract falls under professional services, specifically flight training. Spending in this area is generally tied to the operational needs of government agencies utilizing specialized aircraft.

Small Business Impact

This contract was awarded directly to the manufacturer, Cirrus Design Corporation, and does not appear to include provisions for small business participation.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract is a delivery order under an unspecified existing agreement. Oversight would focus on ensuring the training meets specified standards and is delivered within the contracted timeframe and budget.

Related Government Programs

Flight Training
Department of Transportation Contracting
Federal Aviation Administration Programs

Risk Flags

Lack of competition
Potential for sole-source pricing
Limited transparency in price justification

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Transportation awarded $19,255.5 to CIRRUS DESIGN CORPORATION. CIRRUS SF50 OUT OF AGENCY PILOT TRAINING

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is CIRRUS DESIGN CORPORATION.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Transportation (Federal Aviation Administration).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $19,255.5.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-02. End: 2026-12-19.

What is the justification for not competing this specialized flight training contract?

The justification for not competing this contract likely stems from the highly specialized nature of the Cirrus SF50 aircraft and the manufacturer's unique expertise in providing official training. This could involve proprietary training materials, specific simulator access, or instructor certifications only available directly from Cirrus Design Corporation, making a competitive process impractical or less effective.

What are the potential risks associated with awarding flight training directly to the aircraft manufacturer?

The primary risk is the potential for inflated pricing due to the lack of competitive bidding. Without market comparison, the government may overpay for the training services. Additionally, reliance on a single provider could limit flexibility in scheduling or curriculum customization if the manufacturer's offerings are rigid.

How does this training contribute to the overall effectiveness of the FAA's aviation operations?

This training is critical for ensuring FAA pilots maintain proficiency and safety standards when operating the Cirrus SF50. Effective operation of advanced aircraft directly supports the agency's mission, whether for oversight, inspection, or other operational duties. Ensuring pilots are well-trained minimizes risks and maximizes the utility of these valuable assets.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Educational Services › Technical and Trade Schools › Flight Training

Product/Service Code: EDUCATION AND TRAINING › EDUCATION AND TRAINING SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: NOT COMPETED

Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE

Solicitation ID: 6973GH-21-R-00158

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 4515 TAYLOR CIR, DULUTH, MN, 55811

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Foreign Owned, Foreign-Owned and U.S.-Incorporated Business, Manufacturer of Goods, Small Business, Special Designations

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $19,256

Exercised Options: $19,256

Current Obligation: $19,256

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 6973GH22D00021

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline