The Canadian Aviation Corps, consisting of one aircraft, was formed in 1914 to provide service in Europe during the First World War.

Under the new organization, the Director of the Canadian Air Force reported to the Chief of the General Staff and the other functions of the Air Board (regulation of civil aviation, aviation technical services, and civil government flying operations) were reorganized under the Director.

[1]: 91–95 The first Air Officer Commanding of the Canadian Air Force was Arthur Kellam Tylee with the formation authorised an initial provisional strength of one Wing Commander, one Flight Lieutenant, one Warrant Officer, one Flight Sergeant and one Sergeant.

In 1923, after the CAF was reorganized when the Department of National Defence was formed, formal application was made and the title was granted in February 1923.

The original uniform was a dark blue serge cut in army style with white shirts worn by officers.

[6] In early 1920, dress regulations were revised and the insignia began incorporating the motto into a scroll at the bottom of both cap and collar badges.

The first issue (type 1) for both officers' and NCO's cap badges (without motto) had a crown that was mounted to the top of the maple leaf at a single point.

The second issue (type 2) for the smaller wedge/field cap for both officers and NCOs had the crown attached to the wings for additional support.

Both 1st and 2nd issue officer's collars had a single screw post to fasten onto the uniform, whereas the NCO versions were manufactured with double loops.

First authorized and issued in late 1918 or early 1919, this pilots' double wing was made in a style similar to the officer's cap and collar badges.