GM3 Article 2(3) Scope

• ED Decision 2025/007/R found in: Ground Handling (GH) (2025/23 and 2025/20) (Nov 2025)

##### GM3 Article 2(3) Scope *ED Decision 2025/007/R* **LOAD PLANNING, LOAD CONTROL MESSAGES AND COMMUNICATIONS, AND ISSUANCE OF LOAD CONTROL DOCUMENTS** (a) The scope of [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/20](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2025/20/oj) does not cover the provision of load planning services, mass and balance calculations or load control messaging and communications, or the issuance of related documents. These activities are included in the scope of [Regulation (EU) No 965/2012](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2012/965/oj). When outsourced to a third‑party provider, the responsibility for the safety of these services is covered by point ORO.GEN.205 of Regulation (EU) No 965/2012. (b) The load control function is specific to the operator’s fleet and operational context. It may be performed by an organisation at an aerodrome or outside an aerodrome or by the personnel of the aircraft operator itself. (c) The load control process is classified into two distinct phases: (1) Phase 1: mass and balance (M&B) calculations, load planning, load control communications and messaging, and issuance of load control documents (load sheet, loading instructions/report (LIR) or notification to captain (NOTOC) when necessary). These activities may be executed from an aerodrome or a remote location. (2) Phase 2: load control communication — that is, verification of load against the loading instructions and communication of any last‑minute changes to the mass and balance documentation. These activities take place at an aerodrome, as part of the preparation of the aircraft for departure. (d) The aircraft operator is responsible for ensuring the compliance of activities included in phase 1 — that is, mass and balance calculations, load planning, load control communications and messaging, and issuance of load control documents — with the relevant requirements of Regulation (EU) No 965/2012. This applies at all times, regardless of whether these tasks are performed by the aircraft operator itself or outsourced as a contracted activity. These activities are overseen by the competent authority of the aircraft operator. (e) The GH organisation is responsible for the activities included in phase 2, which take place on an aircraft, at the aerodrome. These activities are overseen by the competent authority for GH of the aerodrome where they are performed.