Celebrating 50 years of safe flying and remarkable contributions to the aviation industry
Sporty’s is proud to announce that Don Wykoff, a distinguished member of our flight training team, has been honored by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with its prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. This accolade is bestowed upon pilots who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to safe flight operations for 50 or more years.
Don began working part-time at Sporty’s in 1974 which provided the opportunity to pursue pilot training. He completed his first solo flight in September 1974 and earned his Private Pilot Certificate two months later. Through the past five decades, Don has exemplified professionalism and exhibited safety across a variety of aviation sectors, including general aviation, military, and Part 121 airline operations.
Don's career highlights include:
-
Serving as a United States Air Force T-38 instructor pilot and F-16 fighter pilot, advancing to key leadership roles.
-
Having a distinguished career with Delta Air Lines, where he served as captain on multiple aircraft types, including the MD-88, Boeing 737, and Boeing 767.
-
Holding influential roles in aviation safety, including leadership positions with both the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) and the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations, serving as president of the latter.
-
Co-authoring critical aviation fatigue management guidelines and contributing to FAA rulemaking efforts.
Currently, Don serves as a liaison to organizations who wish to utilize Sporty’s courses within their flight school. He also works as a consultant, mentor, and coach within Sporty’s flight training organization, inspiring pilots and future pilots with his vast knowledge and experience. His enduring passion for aviation and dedication to safety have left an indelible mark on our industry.
Letters of recommendation for Don's award emphasize his integrity, leadership, and profound influence on the aviation community. As Captain Timothy Canoll, President Emeritus of ALPA, stated, “Don has always operated in a safe and professional manner and is an outstanding individual who is deeply respected across all areas of aviation.”
Don resides with Susan, his wife of 46 years, in West Chester, Ohio. They have two adult children and three grandchildren.
Sporty’s extends heartfelt congratulations to Don Wykoff on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates his extraordinary contributions to aviation.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:
Don Wykoff, a distinguished member of the Sporty's flight training team, has been honored with the prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award.
Don Wykoff served as a United States Air Force T-38 instructor pilot and F-16 fighter pilot, advancing to key leadership roles.
Don Wykoff served as captain with Delta Air Lines on multiple aircraft types, including the MD-88, Boeing 737, and Boeing 767.
Don Wykoff serves as a liaison to organizations who wish to utilize Sporty’s courses within their flight school.
