US Marshals Service seeks contractor for maintenance on prisoner transport aircraft

The United States Marshals Service (USMS), responsible for apprehending fugitives, protecting federal judges, and operating the Justice Prisoner Air Transportation System (JPATS), has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for “heavy maintenance” on one of its Boeing 737-400 aircraft. The contract will cover a comprehensive range of service checks designed to ensure the continued airworthiness and operational readiness of the aircraft used in transporting federal prisoners across the country.

The JPATS, often referred to as "Con Air," plays a critical role in the U.S. justice system by safely and efficiently moving prisoners between detention facilities, courthouses, and other locations. This network relies on a fleet of aircraft, primarily Boeing 737s, specifically configured for this purpose.

The aircraft in question is a Boeing 737-4Q8 series, bearing Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN) 26279, and Registration Number N279AD. As of the RFP's release, the aircraft has accumulated approximately 64,148.5 hours of total time in service and 33,189 total cycles (take-offs and landings).

Scope Of Work

• Structural Inspections: Detailed examinations of the aircraft's fuselage, wings, and tail for signs of corrosion, fatigue, or other damage.
• Engine Maintenance: Inspections and potential repairs or overhauls of the aircraft's engines to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
• Avionics Systems Checks: Testing and calibration of the aircraft's navigation, communication, and flight control systems.
• Landing Gear Overhaul: Inspection, repair, and replacement of components in the landing gear system.
• Cabin Refurbishment: Potential upgrades or repairs to the aircraft's interior, including seating, lighting, and other passenger amenities.

JPATS will deliver the aircraft to the contractor’s facility on Feb. 9, 2026. The aircraft will return to service on March 23, 2026.

Contractors have until July 7 to submit a quote/offer to the Marshals Service to perform the work. The final date to submit questions is June23.