Joseph B. Duckworth (September 8, 1902 – July 26, 1964) was a colonel in the United States Air Force, and was regarded as the "father" of modern instrument flight.

Duckworth enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps as a Flying Cadet in 1927 and received his wings and reserve commission at Kelly Field, Texas, the following year.

After graduation, he flew for Ford Motor Co., Curtiss-Wright Flying Service, and Eastern Air Lines.

It was during this time that he developed his knowledge of instrument flight (obtaining a law degree from the University of Miami in the meantime).

In late 1940, Duckworth was called to active duty in the rank of a major and promoted to lieutenant colonel soon after the US joined World War II.