16--HEADREST,SEAT,AIRCRAFT
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Fri, 16 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Richmond is seeking to procure aircraft seat headrests under Federal Supply Classification 16 (Aircraft Components and Accessories). These items fall within the aerospace parts supply chain that DLA Aviation manages for military aircraft sustainment.
Aircraft seat headrests serve critical safety and ergonomic functions in military aviation. They must meet stringent airworthiness standards, including flame resistance, impact absorption, and compatibility with ejection seat systems or restraint harnesses where applicable. The specific configurations, quantities, material specifications, and any military or commercial derivative requirements for this procurement are not included in the available metadata—see the solicitation for these details.
NAICS 336413 covers "Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing," which includes components like seat assemblies, interior furnishings, and related subsystems for both military and civilian aircraft platforms.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, DLA AV Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A727T0460 |
| NAICS | 336413 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside – Total |
| Response deadline | October 16, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This opportunity is reserved exclusively for small businesses under NAICS 336413. To qualify, your business must meet the Small Business Administration's size standard for this code and register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).
DLA Aviation contracts typically require suppliers to hold or obtain feedback ratings in the DLA's procurement system and may require specific quality certifications such as AS9100 (aerospace quality management) or ISO 9001. Prior experience supplying to DLA or the military aerospace supply chain strengthens your position, though it is not always mandatory. If you are new to DLA, you may need to complete supplier onboarding procedures—see the solicitation for any specific qualification requirements.
Manufacturers with approved parts for military aircraft platforms or holders of technical data rights may have advantages, but DLA also sources through commercial variants when military specifications allow.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements. Aircraft seat headrests may need to meet MIL-SPEC or OEM technical standards. If the solicitation references a National Stock Number (NSN), obtain the full specification package through DLA's technical data channels. Confirm whether the requirement is for exact-form-fit-function replacement or if alternate materials or designs are acceptable.
Price competitively against DLA's historical data. DLA publishes previous award prices for many NSNs. Research the Contract History section in SAM.gov or use DLA's Price Catalog to benchmark your offer. Large discrepancies from recent awards may trigger price analysis scrutiny.
Address delivery and packaging. DLA Aviation has strict packaging and marking requirements governed by MIL-STD-2073. Factor these costs into your proposal. Verify whether deliveries are to a single depot or multiple locations.
Leverage small business programs. As a Total Small Business Set-Aside, this opportunity excludes large competitors. Highlight any HUBZone, 8(a), SDVOSB, or WOSB certifications if applicable—these can provide additional evaluation preference in certain DLA procurements even within a general small business set-aside.
Submit through DLA's electronic systems. The Combined Synopsis/Solicitation format typically allows immediate electronic submission. Ensure your SAM registration is active and your bank account information is current for Electronic Funds Transfer.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T0460. The document will contain the complete specification, quantities, delivery schedule, evaluation criteria, and any required certifications. Note that responses are due October 16, 2026—allow adequate time for any required pre-bid samples, technical data submissions, or qualification verifications. Monitor SAM.gov for amendments, which are common for DLA Aviation parts procurements as technical questions arise.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →