Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

The original Royal Flying Corps (RFC) Pilot's Wings (or Pilot's brevet) was designed by senior officers General Sir Frederick Sykes and General Sir David Henderson. The Wings were given Royal approval by King George V in February 1913 under Army Order 40/13.

The Wings became the symbol of qualification worn by trained pilots. The design of the flying badge was the first of its kind in the world. It has been used as the basis of pilot's badges for the air forces of many countries.

Today it continues to be worn by pilots of the Royal Air Force. The brevet displays the Queen's crown to reflect the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United Kingdom Type AWARDS-Insignia Physical Description Royal Flying Corps gold wire pilots wings on black felt; "RFC" in center of badge surrounded by wreath; Tudor crown over "RFC." Dimensions 3-D: 11.1 × 0.5 × 4.3cm (4 3/8 × 3/16 × 1 11/16 in.)
 Materials Natural Fabric
Paper
Copper Alloy
Silver Alloy
Adhesive
Ink
 Inventory Number A19711761000 Credit Line Donated by the Institute of Aeronautical Sciences Inc. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.