Members of the air service who made ten flights over enemy lines were also eligible.

[2][3] The medal is of zinc and consists of a cross pattée resting on a laurel wreath.

The obverse bears the Latin inscription "GRATI PRINCEPS ET PATRIA, CAROLVS IMP.ET REX", (A grateful prince and country, Karl, Emperor and King).

The reverse shows the Austrian Imperial and Hungarian Royal crowns above the letter "C" (for Carolus) with the inscription "VITAM ET SANGVINEM", (With life and blood) and the date MDCCCCXVI, (1916).

[4] The cross was worn on the left chest from a red ribbon with alternate red-white side strips towards each edge.