Legacy
A Career Defined by Action, Accountability, and Saving Lives
Robert Sumwalt’s impact on aviation safety is the result of decades of dedication—from his years as an airline pilot to his leadership at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), where he helped shape the future of transportation safety across the United States.
Appointed to the NTSB in 2006 and named Chairman in 2017, Sumwalt led the agency through some of its most critical investigations and policy developments. Known for his clear communication and operational insight, he became a respected figure not just within the federal government, but across the global transportation community.
By the Numbers
Flight hours logged as an airline pilot
Safety recommendations issued during his NTSB tenure
Major investigations overseen at the NTSB
Congressional briefings and testimonies
NTSB media briefings while on accident scenes
Delivered speeches and testimonies around the globe
Legacy of Leadership
Under Sumwalt’s leadership, the NTSB:
Championed proactive safety strategies across all transportation modes.
Prioritized safety culture in aviation, rail, and highway systems.
Built trust with the public through transparency, urgency, and compassion.
Drove excellence at NTSB, advancing NTSB's standings in The Best Places to Work in Federal Government by 30 percent, from 9th to 6th
The Mission Continues
Today, Robert Sumwalt continues to advise, teach, and speak on aviation safety, leadership, and crisis management. His goal remains the same: to help organizations and individuals take responsibility for safety—before tragedy strikes.