Commissioned Ranks

Here is the rank structure for commissioned ranks of the Royal Air Force.

Ranks are shown in ascending order. In many cases, the Royal Air Force rank will be the junior of the three Services, the Royal Navy having seniority over both the Army and RAF.

Rank insignia for commissioned ranks is worn on the lower arm of dress uniform.

Pilot Officer

Flying Officer

Flight Lieutenant

Squadron Leader

Wing Commander

Group Captain

Air Commodore

Air Vice-Marshal

Air Marshal

Air Chief Marshal

Marshal of the Royal Air Force

Non-Commissioned Aircrew

Rank insignia for Non-Commissioned Aircrew ranks is, with the exception of Master Aircrew, worn on the upper arm of dress uniform; Master Aircrew badges are worn on the lower arm. 

RAF Sergeant Aircrew

RAF Flight Sergeant Aircrew

RAF Master Aircrew

Non-Commissioned other ranks

Here is the rank structure for other ranks of the Royal Air Force.

Ranks are shown in ascending order. In many cases, the Royal Air Force rank will be the junior of the three Services, the Royal Navy having seniority over both the Army and RAF.

Rank insignia for non-commissioned ranks is, with the exception of Warrant Officer and Master Aircrew, worn on the upper arm of dress uniform. Warrant Officer and Master Aircrew badges are worn on the lower arm.

Air Specialist
(Class 2)

Air Specialist
(Class 1)

Air Specialist
(Class 1) Technician

Lance Corporal RAF Regiment

Corporal

Sergeant

Chief Technician

Flight Sergeant

Warrant Officer