Master aircrew

It is equivalent to warrant officer in other trades, and is effectively the highest non-commissioned aircrew rank.

People holding this rank used to be referred to by different titles depending on their specialisation: This rank is the sole survivor of a system of separate ranks for aircrew which existed between 1 July 1946 and 1950 (another system for technical staff existed between 1950 and 1964).

The badge of rank is a small version of the Royal Arms (as worn by a warrant officer) with an eagle below, all surrounded by a wreath.

Master aircrew receive a warrant signed by the Secretary of State for Defence.

The Royal New Zealand Air Force used the rank until June 2007 when the Master Aircrew rank reverted to Warrant Officer.

RAF master aircrew as it appears on dress uniform