When it comes to government procurement, efficiency and transparency are paramount. For decades, the General Services Administration (GSA) has been at the forefront of facilitating this process through the establishment of government GSA contracts. These contracts serve as pre-negotiated agreements between the federal government and commercial suppliers, providing a streamlined avenue for the acquisition of aviation and aerospace goods and services.

From procuring quality aircraft parts and components to utilizing cutting-edge maintenance services, leveraging GSA contracts becomes a strategic advantage and a necessity for companies seeking to navigate the complexities of government procurement.

At Greenwood Aerospace, we specialize in government contracting services and are the trusted contractors of government agencies and private entities alike. With more than four decades of experience, we have established a reputation for successfully supporting government missions by providing critical support for government programs. We can fulfill any mission objective and government contracting needs while keeping your best interests in mind. Contact us here to learn more about our government contracting services.  

Today, we’ll discuss government GSA contracts in aviation and aerospace, focusing on: 

  1. The background of GSA contracts and GSA-approved contractors
  2. The different types of GSA contracts
  3. The advantages of government GSA contracts
  4. How companies become GSA contractors
  5. The duration of government GSA contracts 

Let’s explore the various types of GSA contracts, their benefits, and the challenges faced by companies operating in this high-stakes sector. 

What Is a GSA Contract?

GSA contacts are vital to the sustainment of government contract solutions. But what exactly does it mean to hold a GSA contract, and how does it benefit both vendors and government agencies? 

What Does GSA Stand For?

GSA stands for the General Services Administration, a federal agency tasked with managing and supporting the basic functioning of the federal government. Established in 1949, the GSA plays a central role in the government procurement process by providing a range of goods and services to federal agencies, from military aircraft parts to aircraft sustainment services. 

At the heart of the GSA's mission is the commitment to efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and innovation in government operations. Through initiatives like GSA contracts, the agency aims to: 

This ultimately ensures that federal agencies have access to the resources they need to fulfill their missions. 

What Is a GSA-Approved Contractor?

A GSA-approved contractor, often referred to as a GSA schedule holder or GSA contract holder, is a commercial supplier that has been awarded a contract by the GSA. These contracts, known as Multiple Award Schedules (MAS) or GSA Schedules, are pre-negotiated agreements between the government and prime government contractors, covering a wide range of aviation and aerospace products and services. 

To become a GSA-approved contractor, companies must undergo a rigorous evaluation process, which includes demonstrating their capability to meet the government's needs while complying with applicable regulations and standards. Once awarded a GSA contract, vendors gain access to a vast marketplace of federal agencies and departments, streamlining the procurement process and providing a competitive edge in government contracting. 

For aerospace and aviation companies, obtaining GSA approval can open doors to opportunities within the federal government, allowing them to showcase their expertise and capabilities on a national scale. 

At Greenwood Aerospace, we are trusted partners in advancing the nation's aerospace and aviation objectives by providing government agencies with essential fixed-wing aircraft, government aircraft parts management, and aviation logistics services.

Types of Government GSA Contracts

GSA contracts come in various forms, each tailored to meet specific needs and requirements. Let’s break down four types of government GSA contracts, including: 

  1. Schedule contracts
  2. Governmentwide acquisition contracts (GWACs)
  3. Multiple award schedules (MAS)
  4. Blanket purchase agreements (BPAs)

These government contract awards offer flexibility and efficiency in acquiring goods and services for federal agencies. Next, we’ll take a look at the different types of GSA contracts and their unique characteristics.

Schedule Contracts

Schedule contracts, also known as GSA schedules or federal supply schedules, are one of the most common types of GSA contracts. These contracts establish long-term, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) agreements between the federal government and providers of government contract services. 

Schedule contracts cover a wide range of products and services, organized into specific categories or "schedules," such as:

  • Information technology
  • Professional services
  • Facilities maintenance

One of the key advantages of schedule contracts is their flexibility and accessibility. Federal agencies can easily access pre-negotiated pricing and terms through an online portal, known as the GSA Advantage! website, streamlining the procurement process and reducing administrative burdens for both buyers and sellers. 

Schedule contracts also allow for the inclusion of special features, such as socioeconomic considerations and environmental sustainability in government procurement, further enhancing their appeal to government agencies. 

Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs)

Government-wide acquisition contracts (GWACs) are another type of GSA contract designed to facilitate the procurement of products, services, and solutions across the federal government. Unlike schedule contracts, which are managed by the GSA, GWACs are typically administered by individual agencies or organizations authorized by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). 

GWACs offer federal agencies access to a diverse pool of technology vendors and solutions, providing streamlined procurement processes and reduced lead times for acquiring critical technologies. These contracts often focus on specific areas of IT for aviation and aerospace, such as:

This allows agencies to meet their unique mission requirements by leveraging the expertise of qualified vendors.

A USAF RQ-4 Global Hawk ISR aircraft on a runway
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Multiple Award Schedules (MAS)

Multiple Award Schedules (MAS) are a subset of schedule contracts that encompass a broad array of products and services from multiple vendors. MAS contracts are designed to provide federal agencies with maximum flexibility and choice when procuring military and defense contracting goods and services, allowing them to issue task orders or delivery orders to multiple vendors based on their specific needs. 

MAS contracts streamline the procurement process by pre-negotiating pricing, terms, and conditions, thereby reducing the time and effort required to solicit and evaluate proposals. MAS contracts also promote competition among vendors, driving down costs and fostering innovation in government contract procurement. These contracts are particularly advantageous for federal agencies seeking to access a wide range of solutions quickly and efficiently.

Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs)

Blanket purchase agreements (BPAs) are another contract vehicle offered by the GSA, providing federal agencies with a streamlined method for acquiring repetitive goods and services. BPAs establish a framework agreement between a government agency and a commercial vendor, outlining pricing, terms, and conditions for future purchases. For recurring services like long-term aircraft leasing, this is an ideal solution. 

One of the primary benefits of BPAs is their flexibility and scalability. Federal agencies can use BPAs to consolidate their purchasing activities, achieve cost savings through volume discounts, and streamline their procurement processes. Additionally, BPAs allow for easy modification and adaptation to changing requirements, making them a valuable tool for agencies with dynamic procurement needs.

What Are the Advantages of Government GSA Contracts?

The aviation and aerospace industries are fast-paced, which means that efficiency and agility are paramount. GSA government contracts offer several advantages for companies operating in this dynamic sector, providing streamlined procurement processes and access to a vast marketplace of federal agencies. Let's explore the unique benefits that GSA contracts bring to aerospace and aviation companies.

Streamlined Procurement Process

Aerospace and aviation companies face stringent regulations and complex government supply chains, making procurement a challenging and time-consuming endeavor. However, with GSA contracts, these companies can streamline the procurement process, reducing administrative burdens and accelerating time-to-market for their products and services. 

By leveraging pre-negotiated pricing, terms, and conditions, aerospace and aviation companies can bypass lengthy negotiations and expedite the acquisition process for aircraft engine parts, aviation services, and more. This allows them to focus their resources on innovation and product development, rather than navigating the intricacies of government procurement. 

GSA contracts also offer a centralized platform, the GSA Advantage! website, where federal agencies can easily access and procure goods and services from approved vendors. This accessibility enhances visibility and market reach for aerospace and aviation companies, increasing their competitiveness in the government marketplace. 

Access to a Larger Market

The federal government is one of the largest consumers of aerospace and aviation products and services, encompassing a wide range of agencies and departments with diverse mission requirements. GSA contracts provide aerospace and aviation companies with unparalleled access to this vast market, enabling them to showcase their expertise and capabilities on a national scale. 

Through GSA contracts with the federal government, aerospace and aviation companies can market their products and services directly to federal agencies involved in government aviation, positioning themselves as trusted partners in advancing the nation's aerospace and aviation objectives. This expanded market reach opens doors to lucrative opportunities and long-term partnerships, driving growth and sustainability for companies in the industry. 

Moreover, GSA contracts foster competition among vendors, ensuring that federal agencies have access to the best value solutions at competitive prices. This competitive environment encourages innovation and continuous improvement within the aerospace and aviation sector, driving technological advancements and enhancing capabilities to meet the evolving needs of government customers.

How Do Companies Become GSA Contractors?

Becoming a GSA contractor is a strategic endeavor for companies seeking to tap into the government marketplace. However, the process requires careful planning and adherence to stringent regulations. Generally, companies become GSA contractors by: 

  1. Registering to contract with the U.S. Government 
  2. Holding a GSA schedule
  3. Submitting proposals
  4. Staying compliant and adhering to regulations

Let's explore the steps involved in becoming a GSA contractor in more detail, from initial registration to compliance with regulatory requirements.

Register to Contract With the U.S. Government

Before government contractors for defense and the military can pursue GSA contracts, they must first register to do business with the U.S. government. This involves obtaining a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number, registering in the System for Award Management (SAM) database, and completing other necessary certifications and registrations, such as the Trade Agreement Act (TAA) certification and the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) representations and certifications. 

Registration in SAM is particularly crucial, as it serves as the primary repository for government contracting information, including company details, capabilities, and past performance. Failure to maintain accurate and up-to-date information in SAM can result in disqualification from government contracting opportunities, including GSA contracts.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Hold a GSA Schedule

The cornerstone of GSA contracting is the GSA schedule, also known as a Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract. To obtain a GSA schedule, companies must undergo a rigorous evaluation process, which includes demonstrating their capability to meet the government's needs while complying with applicable regulations and standards.

The GSA schedule application process involves submitting a detailed proposal outlining the products or services offered, pricing, terms, and conditions. Once awarded a GSA Schedule contract, companies gain access to a broad range of government customers and contracting opportunities, providing a competitive edge in the government marketplace.

Submit Proposals

In addition to holding a GSA schedule, companies may also pursue other types of GSA contracts, such as BPAs or GWACs. To secure these contracts, companies must submit proposals in response to specific solicitations issued by government agencies or GSA. 

Proposal submission involves carefully crafting responses to solicitation requirements, including technical capabilities, past performance, pricing, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Companies must demonstrate their ability to deliver high-quality products or services that meet the needs of government customers while offering value and cost-effectiveness.

Compliance and Regulations

Compliance with regulatory requirements is a cornerstone of government procurement contracting, including GSA contracts. Companies must adhere to many different regulations and standards, including government regulations on supply chain management, the Trade Agreement Act (TAA), the Buy American Act (BAA), and various socio-economic requirements, such as small business set-asides and subcontracting goals. 

Aviation and aerospace contractors must also maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including pricing, sales, and compliance documentation, to ensure transparency and accountability in their dealings with the government. Failure to comply with regulatory requirements can result in penalties, contract termination, or suspension from future government contracting opportunities.

How Long Do Government GSA Contracts Last?

The duration of government GSA contracts for aviation and aerospace contractors varies depending on the type of contract and specific terms negotiated between the vendor and the GSA. Unlike traditional commercial contracts, which may have fixed terms or renewal options, GSA contracts operate under a unique framework designed to provide flexibility and continuity in government procurement services. Let's explore the typical duration of GSA contracts and factors that may influence their length.   

Base Period

GSA contracts typically include an initial base period during which the contract is active and vendors are obligated to fulfill orders from government agencies. The length of the base period varies depending on the type of contract and the specific terms negotiated between the vendor and the GSA. Base periods may range from one to five years, with the option for renewal or extension.

Option Periods

In addition to the base period, GSA contracts may include option periods that allow for the contract to be extended beyond the initial term. Option periods provide flexibility for both contractors and government agencies, allowing for continued access to goods and services while minimizing the administrative burden of soliciting new contracts. 

Option periods are typically exercised at the discretion of the GSA and are subject to certain conditions, such as satisfactory performance by the contractor and compliance with regulatory requirements. The length of option periods may vary and is determined based on the terms negotiated in the contract.

Renewal and Extension

At the conclusion of the base period and any option periods, GSA contracts may be renewed or extended based on the mutual agreement of the vendor and the GSA. Renewal and extension options provide continuity in government procurement, allowing for seamless transition between contract periods and ensuring uninterrupted access from aircraft parts suppliers for government agencies. 

Renewal and extension options may be subject to certain conditions, such as price adjustments, changes in terms and conditions, and compliance with regulatory requirements. The length of renewal and extension periods may vary depending on the specific terms negotiated in the contract and the needs of the government agency.

Market Conditions and Performance

The duration of GSA contracts may also be influenced by market conditions and the performance of the vendor. GSA contracts are designed to promote competition and value for government agencies, and contracts may be reevaluated periodically to ensure that aviation and aerospace contractors continue to meet the needs of government customers.

Government Contracting Services at Greenwood Aerospace 

For more than 40 years, Greenwood Aerospace has been delivering government contracting solutions to our clients in the aerospace and aviation industries. We have served some of the largest government agencies in the United States, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

Our team works around the clock to fulfill your mission objectives and government contracting needs, while always keeping your best interests in mind. We go above and beyond to ensure regulatory compliance for all our contracting services and are committed to the success of each and every client. 

Contact us today to discuss government contracting solutions for your aviation or aerospace program.