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Ravi
is a pilot and motivational speaker who is bringing renewed passion
to the aviation industry. Concerned that the perception of aviation
is in decline, he inspires pilots and aviation professionals to re-connect
with their dream through educational and motivational events. Ravi is
a featured speaker at AirVenture/Oshkosh (the world's largest air show),
Sun 'n' Fun (the nation's second largest), Aircraft Owners and Pilots
Association (AOPA) Summit, Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC),
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, University of North Dakota, and
others, often delivering keynote addresses. Ravi's first feature article
on aviation appeared in AOPA's Flight Training magazine in 2008.
"The Raviator's" childhood
fascination with aviation was probably sparked by his father's colorful
stories about flying twice the speed of sound as a passenger on the
Concorde while traveling on international business. Moreover, his father
partnered with Apollo 17 astronaut Eugene Cernan to form an airline,
and having "the man on the moon" hanging around the house
was surely a source of inspiration. Nevertheless, Ravi decided to pursue
his other passion professionally.
In addition to his passion for aviation, Ravi is an accomplished
musician who shot to worldwide fame at a young age as the guitarist
for the '90's band Hanson, playing guitar in front of crowds exceeding
40,000 screaming fans, enjoying a life amidst teen idol mania. Hanson's
triple Grammy nominated chart-topping song "MmmBop" catapulted
the band into the music stratosphere, taking Ravi to stages at the White
House, Jay Leno, David Letterman, Saturday Night Live, Rosie O'Donnell,
and Madison Square Garden, as well as the Louisiana Superdome as a solo
artist. His autobiographical book written on tour as guitarist of the
top-selling band in the world was published by Simon & Schuster.
His voice has been likened to a young Steve Winwood or Peter Frampton.
Ravi, born in Washington, D.C. and raised near New
York City, is a member of the Nehru-Gandhi family, India's political
family dynasty who governed the world's largest democracy for over 40
years and continues to exert strong influence today.
"Ravi is captivating. His message is exciting, motivating,
and most important, touches audiences of all ages by reawakening the
passion that sometimes weakens over time. Put quite simply it reminded
me of why I got into this career in the first place."
- Bruce Smith, Dean of School of Aerospace, University of North
Dakota
"Ravi entertained, he educated, and he inspired!"
- Deborah Bandy, Director of Admissions, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
"Ravi is an inspiring, energetic and passionate champion for
General Aviation. He really
understands the issues that face GA and provides a fresh perspective
on the solutions to these issues."
- Chris Carta, Alumni Relations, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
"Ravi's enthusiasm for General Aviation and pilot training
is refreshing and very helpful to the industry."
- Dr. Irvin N. Gleim, CFII, Author of the "Red Books" Gleim
Publications, Inc.
"Ravi is the perfect icon of todays successful young
people. He is a terrific boost to the efforts of AOPA, EAA and others
to inspire more people to fly."
- Dr. Ram Pattisapu, CEO, IndUS Aviation
"General Aviations nouveau ambassador! Ravi brings the same
passion and energy to flying that has placed him among the best in the
music industry. He is helping us to renew the dream of flight in our
communities."
- Capt. Jason Conner, Check Airman, USAirways/Piedmont Airlines, CFI
Gold Seal, CFII, MEI
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