Public-Private Competitions

A GAO review of the Air Force's selection of a source of repair for depot maintenance work at the closing San Antonio Air Logistics Center found that the processes used for the San Antonio engine maintenance competition award were reasonable. Specifically, (1) the competition procedures provided an equal opportunity for public and private competitors without regard to where the work could be done; (2) the procedures did not deviate in any material respect from applicable laws and regulations; (3) the Air Force appropriately considered factors other than cost in the selection; and (4) within the framework set forth for the competition, the award resulted in the lowest total cost to the Defense Department to have the work done. GAO identifies several methodological and process issues related to the cost evaluations that, while not materially affecting the selection, may be useful for the Air Force to consider in future competitions.

GAO noted that: (1) the processes used for the San Antonio engine maintenance competition award were reasonable; (2) the competition procedures provided an equal opportunity for public and private competitors without regard to where the work could be performed; (3) the procedures did not deviate in any material respect from applicable laws and regulations; (4) the Air Force appropriately considered factors other than cost in the selection; (5) within the framework set forth for the competition, the award resulted in the lowest total cost to DOD for performance of the work; and (6) GAO also identified several methodological and process issues related to the cost evaluation that, while not materially affecting the selection, may be useful for the Air Force to consider in future competitions.