Don Wykoff, a member of the Sporty’s Pilot Shop flight team, has been recognized by the FAA for 50 years of safe flying with the prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award.
Wykoff began working part time at Sporty’s in 1974, giving him the opportunity to pursue flight training and earn his pilot certificate. According to Sporty’s, Wykoff soloed in September 1974 and earned his private pilot certificate that November. From this auspicious start, Wykoff went on to earn certificates and ratings in a career spanning GA, military, and Part 121 airline operations.
Among Wykoff’s career achievements:
- Served as a U.S. Air Force T-38 instructor pilot and F-16 fighter pilot, advancing to key leadership roles.
- Served as a Delta Air Lines captain on multiple aircraft types, including the MD-88, Boeing 737, and Boeing 767.
- Held influential roles in aviation safety and 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.
- Coauthored critical aviation fatigue management guidelines and contributed to FAA rulemaking efforts.
These days Wykoff serves as a liaison to organizations that wish to utilize Sporty’s courses within their flight schools. He is also a consultant, mentor, and coach within Sporty’s flight training organization and continues to inspire the next generation of pilots.
