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DESCRIPTION: An oxidized silver badge 3/4 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width, consisting of the shield of the coat of arms of the United States on and over a pair of displayed wings. A star is added above the shield to indicate qualification as a senior Army aviator. The star is surrounded with a laurel wreath to indicate qualification as a master Army aviator.

SYMBOLISM: The wings suggest flight and reflect the skills associated with aerial flight. The shield of the coat of arms of the United States signifies loyalty and devotion to duty.

AWARD ELIGIBILITY:

Army Aviator: The individual must have satisfactorily completed the prescribed training and proficiency tests conducted by the U.S. Army Aviation Center and must have been designated as an aviator in appropriate orders.

Senior Aviator: Have 1,500 flying hours in aircraft or seven years from basic rating date.

Master Aviator: Have 3,000 hours in aircraft or 15 years from basic rating date.

DATE APPROVED: The aviator and senior aviator badges were approved on 27 July 1950 and the master aviator badge was approved on 12 February 1957.

SUBDUED BADGES: Subdued badges are authorized in metal and cloth. The metal badge is black; the cloth badge is of olive green base cloth with design elements embroidered in black.

MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges are authorized in the following sizes:

Aviator – 21/64 inch in height and 1 1/4 inches in width.

Senior Aviator – 13/32 inch in height and 1 1/4 inches in width.

Master Aviator – 15/32 inch in height and 1 1/4 inches in width.

Miniature badges are 19/32 inch in height and 2 inches in width; 11/16 inch in height and 2 inches in width; and 23/32 inch in height and 2 inches in width, respectively.