Two companies bid to become the Brand New Air Traffic Control System prime integrator, FAA issues carry-on SAFO, 737 MAX production limits eased, P&W and GE adaptive cycle engines, Sikorsky contract for CH-53K helicopters, and Sergei Sikorsky passes away at age 100. Aviation News Two bidders vie to be project manager of massive FAA US air traffic overhaul Two bids to become the prime integrator in the FAA’s project to overhaul the air traffic control system have been received. Congress has approved $12.5 billion for the Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS), and the Agency has indicated that an additional $19 billion might be requested. The bids come from two DC Beltway companies: Peraton is a national security company owned by Veritas Capital and headquartered in Reston, Virginia. See the press release: Peraton Offers the FAA a Brand New Approach for Its Revolutionary ATC Modernization Initiative. Parsons Corporation is a technology provider in national security and global infrastructure markets. Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, Parsons confirmed it has bid with IBM. The FAA says it will make a selection by the end of October. FAA urges airlines to discourage passengers from taking bags during evacuations The FAA issued Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO 25003, PDF) titled “Addressing Risk Associated with Passenger Non-Compliance and Retention of Carry-On Baggage and Personal Items During Emergency Evacuations.” The SAFO “Serves to emphasize the operational and safety-critical importance of strict passenger compliance with crewmember instructions during emergency evacuations. Specifically, it addresses the adverse effects of passengers attempting to evacuate with carry-on items, which can signi