Captain Jim Doyle: Pan Am Legend, USAF Major, and Motorcycle Racing Pioneer
- Bill Travis
- Jul 17
- 2 min read
Some people live two lifetimes’ worth of adventure — and Pan Am Captain Jim Doyle is one of them. From high-speed jets to high-speed motorcycles, Jim’s journey spans military service, global aviation, and racing history — and at 91, he’s still going. A Distinguished Career at Pan Am and in the USAF
Jim began his career by enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1953, rising to the rank of Major by 1968. From 1965 to 1985, he took the left seat as a Pan Am Captain, flying legendary jets like the Boeing 707 and 747 to every corner of the globe.
Two Wheels and Two Wings: The Racing Years
In the late 1960s, while flying for Pan Am, Jim was also racing motorcycles in California as an AMA road racer, riding a Suzuki TR250. After a 1969 crash, he shifted gears — mentoring Kenny Roberts and later supporting racers like Randy Mamola. He also became President of Suomy Helmets America, promoting rider safety and the sport he loved.
Still Serving: Civil Air Patrol and Lifetime Honors
Today, at 91, Jim Doyle remains active as a Major in the Civil Air Patrol, overseeing the maintenance of 14 aircraft in Nevada. In 2023, the FAA honored him with the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, recognizing over 50 years of safe flight operations.
Personal Reflections: Drinks in Tokyo
Jim and I go way back — we both flew for Zantop before Pan Am. Once in Tokyo, we found ourselves there at the same time. We shared stories, drinks, and memories in my room, with no flights until the following evening. It remains one of my favorite moments from our Pan Am days.
A Living Bridge Between Two Golden Eras
Jim Doyle truly connects the golden age of aviation with the golden era of American motorcycle racing. He continues to serve, mentor, and inspire.
If you’ve flown with him, raced with him, or learned from him — raise a glass (or visor!) and share your story. 🥂🏁
📣 If you enjoyed this tribute, please share it with friends, veterans, or aviation groups.
🛩️ Follow my journey at facebook.com/CaptainBillTravis91🎱 I’m also chasing a dream: reaching a Fargo 500 pool rating at age 91
#JimDoyle #PanAmCaptain #USAFVeteran #CivilAirPatrol #WrightBrothersAward #MotorcycleRacing #KennyRoberts #AviationHistory #RacingMentor #LivingLegend
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