RAAF changes commander

Air Marshal Geoff Brown has ended his time as head of the nation's air force.

In a ceremony at Defence headquarters in Canberra on Friday, he officially handed over to his deputy Leo Davies.

Entrusted with the command of the airforce was a special honour and even greater responsibility, Brown said.

"The privilege of leading the Air Force has been immensely rewarding."

In a 35-year air force career, Air Marshal Brown flew Chinook helicopters, as well as Hornets and F-111 bombers, commanding 3 Squadron and the RAAF's air combat group.

His final day was recognised with a fly-by of RAAF aircraft.

Air Marshal Davies said he accepted the responsibility of leading the RAAF, with all of its challenges and rewards.

"I will work hard every day to build on the achievements others have already made," he said.

Air Marshal Davies started his career on RAAF Orion maritime patrol aircraft and then accumulated 2000 hours in F-111s, commanding 1 Squadron and 82 Wing.

Air Marshal Brown, 57, now plans to take a break, then do some more flying in something much quieter and slower than a jet fighter.

"I have a new sailplane on order that arrives in September," he told AAP earlier this week.

"To do a bit of competition gliding is the number one plan at the moment. I've been doing it since I was 13."