Don Wykoff

Growing up in General Aviation, 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. Over the past five decades, Don served as a USAF T-38 instructor pilot and F-16 fighter pilot, retired from the Air Force Reserve and completed a 34-year career with Delta Airlines as a captain on the MD-88, B- 737, and B-767. He’s held influential roles in aviation safety, including leadership positions with the Air Line Pilots Association and as president of the International Federation of Air Line Pilot’s Association. A recognized expert on pilot fatigue, he has co-authored multiple, internationally recognized aviation fatigue management guidelines. He served as co-chair of a FAA Aviation Rulemaking Committee that resulted in FAR 117. Don works now as a consultant, mentor, and coach within Sporty’s Academy. He recently was awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award by the FAA for his unwavering commitment to safe flight operations for 50 years or more.

Don is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and lives in the Cincinnati area with his wife, Susan.