own rank structure was introduced in August 1919, RAF second lieutenants who were qualified pilots were re-designated as pilot officers, a rank which has been in continuous use ever since. Those who were not qualified pilots were redesignated observer officers, but this was later phased out and all officers of this rank became pilot officers.

RAF usage

The rank of pilot officer does not imply that the officer is aircrew. Following reforms to the Royal Air Force's promotion system, wherein previously, university graduates passed

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