DD Form 365-3 Chart C: Basic Weight & Balance Record – The DD Form 365-3, known as Chart C – Basic Weight and Balance Record, is a critical document in the U.S. military’s aircraft weight and balance system. Used by the Army, Air Force, Navy, and other services, it maintains a permanent history of an aircraft’s basic weight, moment, and center of gravity (CG). Accurate records ensure flight safety, performance, and compliance with regulations.
Official Download: Download DD Form 365-3 PDF
What is DD Form 365-3?
DD Form 365-3 (Chart C) serves as the continuous and permanent record of an aircraft’s basic weight, moment/index, and center of gravity position. It forms part of the DD Form 365 series used for military aircraft weight and balance management. The form tracks all permanent modifications, equipment additions/removals, and weighing results to keep data current.
Purpose of Chart C Basic Weight and Balance Record
The primary purpose is to provide the most current baseline data for all subsequent aircraft loading calculations (typically on DD Form 365-4, Weight and Balance Clearance Form F). It ensures pilots and crews have accurate information for safe operations. All permanent changes, regardless of size, must be recorded clearly in ink or typed.
- Maintains historical record of aircraft configuration changes
- Supports compliance with technical orders (T.O. 1-1B-40, NAVAIR 01-1B-40, TM 55-1500-342-23)
- Baseline for calculating gross weight, CG, and moments
- Essential for aviation safety and mission readiness
How DD Form 365-3 Fits in the Weight and Balance System?
The DD 365 series includes:
- DD Form 365-1 (Chart A): Basic Weight Checklist Record
- DD Form 365-2 (Form B): Aircraft Weighing Record
- DD Form 365-3 (Chart C): Basic Weight and Balance Record (this form)
- DD Form 365-4 (Form F): Weight and Balance Clearance
Chart C integrates data from inventories (Chart A) and weighings (Form B).
How to Fill Out DD Form 365-3?
Key steps for completing the form:
- Enter aircraft model/design/series and serial number at the top.
- Record the date of each entry (YYYYMMDD format).
- For additions or removals: Note item number (from Chart A if applicable), description of article, weight change (+ or -), arm, and moment/index.
- Calculate and enter the new current total basic aircraft weight, moment, and CG/index.
- Reference any applicable Modification Work Order (MWO) or technical data.
- Update after aircraft weighings or inventories.
The last line on the form always represents the most current basic weight data.
When to Update Chart C?
- Equipment added to or removed from the aircraft
- Subsystem modifications or structural changes
- After completing a Chart A inventory
- Following an aircraft weighing (using data from DD Form 365-2)
- Significant changes requiring a new Form F (weight change ±0.3% or CG shift ±0.3 inches)
Temporary changes may be noted in maintenance records for up to 90 days before updating Chart C.
Importance of Accurate Weight and Balance Records
Proper use of DD Form 365-3 directly impacts:
- Flight Safety: Prevents CG issues that can lead to loss of control
- Performance: Ensures optimal takeoff, landing, and fuel efficiency
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets DoD and service-specific requirements
- Mission Effectiveness: Accurate data supports payload planning
Inaccurate records can result in grounding aircraft or compromised safety.
Download Official DD Form 365-3
Get the latest version from the official source:
Download DD Form 365-3 Chart C PDF (Executive Services Directorate, WHS)
Best Practices and Common Issues
- Always use the most recent edition of the form
- Cross-reference with Chart A and Form B
- Perform periodic reviews (often annually)
- Ensure entries are legible and properly calculated
- Train personnel responsible for weight and balance on proper procedures
Related Resources
- Executive Services Directorate Forms
- Service-specific technical orders (TO 1-1B-40, etc.)
- TM 55-1500-342-23 for Army aircraft