Master aircrew facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Master aircrew |
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A master aircrew's rank insignia
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| Country |  United Kingdom |
| Service branch |  Royal Air Force |
| Abbreviation | MAcr |
| NATO rank | OR-9 |
| Formation | 1 July 1946 |
| Rank group | Warrant officer |
| Next lower rank | Flight sergeant aircrew |
| Equivalent ranks | Warrant officer 1 |
A Master Aircrew (MAcr) is a very important rank in the Royal Air Force (RAF). It is a special rank for people who work as aircrew, meaning they fly or operate aircraft. This rank is like a Warrant Officer for aircrew. It is the highest rank for aircrew who are not officers. The NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) rank code for Master Aircrew is OR-9.
Contents
What is a Master Aircrew?
Master Aircrew members are highly skilled and experienced. They are experts in their specific jobs on an aircraft. These jobs might include being a signaller, engineer, or loadmaster. They help fly and manage the aircraft safely.
History of the Rank
The Master Aircrew rank began on July 1, 1946. Before 1950, people with this rank had different titles. These titles depended on their special job. For example, there were Master Signallers (MSig) and Master Engineers (MEng). There were also Master Air Electronics Operators (MAEOp) and Master Air Loadmasters (MALM).
Other special aircrew ranks used to exist, like Master Pilot. However, these roles are now only held by officers. The Master Aircrew is the only one of these special ranks left today.
The Rank Badge
The badge for a Master Aircrew is very special. It shows a small version of the Royal Arms. This is the same symbol worn by a Warrant Officer. Below the Royal Arms, there is an eagle. The whole badge is surrounded by a wreath. This badge shows their high rank and skill. Master Aircrew members also receive a special document. This document is called a warrant. A top government official, the Secretary of State for Defence, signs this warrant.
Master Aircrew in New Zealand
The Royal New Zealand Air Force also used the Master Aircrew rank. They had this rank until June 2007. After that, the rank changed back to Warrant Officer in New Zealand.
See also
- RAF enlisted ranks
