DD Form 365: Record of Weight & Balance Personnel – DD Form 365 is a critical Department of Defense (DoD) document used by U.S. military aviation personnel to maintain accurate records of qualified weight and balance technicians responsible for specific aircraft. Essential for safety, compliance, and operational readiness in the U.S. Air Force, Army, and Navy.
What is DD Form 365?
DD Form 365, titled Record of Weight and Balance Personnel, serves as the official log for tracking individuals authorized to perform and oversee weight and balance calculations and records for military aircraft. It is part of the DD Form 365 series used in conjunction with technical orders such as T.O. 1-1B-50, NAVAIR 01-1B-50, and TM-55-1500-342-23.
Purpose of DD Form 365 in Military Aviation
This form ensures accountability by documenting who is responsible for maintaining the aircraft’s weight and balance handbook. Proper weight and balance directly impact flight safety, performance, and mission success. The form provides a continuous record for each aircraft by model/design and serial number.
Key Fields on DD Form 365
- Model/Design/Series and Serial Number/Bureau Number: Identifies the specific aircraft.
- Name (Last, First, Middle Initial): Full name of the qualified personnel.
- Grade, Rate, or Rank: Military rank or civilian equivalent.
- Where and When Qualified / Qualifying Organization: Details of qualification (though “Where and When” may not always be required).
- Station: Assigned location or unit.
- Date Assigned and Date Relieved (YYYYMMDD): Tracks periods of responsibility.
How to Fill Out DD Form 365?
1. Enter the aircraft Model/Design/Series and Serial Number at the top.
2. List personnel details in the table format.
3. Use ink or type entries for legibility.
4. Maintain the form in the aircraft’s weight and balance file as a semi-permanent record.
5. Update when personnel transfer or new technicians are assigned. The last entry indicates the currently responsible technician.
Pro Tip for U.S. Military Personnel: Always cross-reference with your unit’s Technical Orders and local instructions for aircraft-specific requirements.
DD Form 365 in the Weight and Balance Series
DD Form 365 works alongside other forms in the series:
- 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
- DD Form 365-4 (Form F): Weight and Balance Clearance
Together, these maintain complete aircraft weight and balance documentation.
Who Uses DD Form 365?
Primarily used by:
- Weight and Balance Technicians
- Aviation Maintenance Personnel
- Weight and Balance Officers
- Reporting Custodians in U.S. Air Force, Army, and Navy aviation units
Importance of Accurate Weight and Balance Records
Incorrect weight and balance can lead to serious flight risks. DD Form 365 helps ensure only qualified personnel handle these critical records, supporting regulatory compliance and operational safety across DoD aviation assets.
Where to Download Official DD Form 365?
Download the latest official DD Form 365 (October 2023 edition) directly from the DoD
The form is available as a fillable PDF from the Executive Services Directorate (ESD) website. Previous editions may be used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the latest version of DD Form 365?
The current edition is dated October 2023. Always verify the latest version on the official DoD Forms Management Program website.
Is DD Form 365 only for the Air Force?
While the Air Force is the primary OPR, the form is used across DoD services for aircraft weight and balance record-keeping.
How long should DD Form 365 be retained?
It is considered a semi-permanent record retained in the aircraft’s weight and balance file until space is exhausted.