Who is noted as the British "ace of aces"?

Edward Mannock is recognized as the British "ace of aces" due to his remarkable record during World War I. He achieved a total of 73 confirmed aerial victories, making him one of the highest-scoring fighter pilots of the war. Mannock's flying skills, tactical acumen, and dedication to his squadron contributed significantly to his success as a fighter pilot. His reputation was bolstered not only by his impressive tally of kills but also by the strategies he employed in combat, which set a standard for future air combat tactics.

In contrast, while other notable pilots like Albert Ball and James McCudden also had impressive records and contributions, their victory tallies did not surpass Mannock's. Hugh Dowding, while a key figure in air defense and strategy during the Battle of Britain, is not specifically recognized for personal aerial victories. Thus, Edward Mannock's status as the "ace of aces" is firmly established based on his accomplishments and impact during the war.