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Ranks
Terminology

There are two rank structures within the RAF Air Cadets: Commissioned (hold a Cadet Forces Commission from the Queen) and Non-Commissioned (who don't)

Commissioned Officers

Commissioned Officers typically hold more executive roles (command, administration, organisation). The ranks within the RAF Air Cadets are as follows:

Rank Description
Air Commodore The highest rank in the Corps, and the only serving RAF rank, this is held by the Commandant of the RAF Air Cadets. Unlike the other ranks, the Air Commodore holds an RAF Commission, not a Cadet Forces Commission
Group Captain Held by the Commandant of each Region
Wing Commander Held by the Commander of each Wing
Squadron Leader Held by Region and Wing Staff Officers, and by commanders of large Squadrons
Flight Lieutenant Held by commanders of Squadrons (other than those above a certain size), Wing Specialist Officers and historically by officers who have been commissioned for a prolonged period of time
Flying Officer Held by officers who have been commissioned for more than 2 years and have not been appointed to a post meriting the Flight Lieutenant rank
Pilot Officer Held by officers who have been commissioned within the last two years and have not been appointed to a post meriting the Flight Lieutenant rank
Officer Cadet Held by officers who have been appointed but not completed the Initial Officer's Course to gain their Commission

There are higher ranking officers within the Royal Air Force, but these ranks do not appear within the RAF Air Cadets

Non-Commissioned Officers

Non-Commissioned Officers typically hold more management roles (drill, discipline, armaments, security). The ranks within the RAF Air Cadets are as follows:
Rank Description
Warrant Officer
Flight Sergeant
Sergeant