John's interest in flying started as a child. Born in Langedijk, Netherlands, his family has a rich history in aviation with the Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij N.V. (KLM Royal Dutch Airlines) as pilots, flight engineers, and flight attendants. After emigrating to the United States, John started taking some pilot training when he was in his thirties, but found the commitment along with other concurrent responsibilities too much to continue. Fast forward to the present and he found the time and resources to continue with his training and finally earn his pilot certificate.

John volunteers and fund-raises for a charity organization called Best Buddies which helps people with Intellectual Development Disabilities (IDD) assimilate in society. He has volunteered with Best Buddies for 8 years.

It is John's hope to use N917LA as a catalyst to introduce people with IDD to the aviation community.

"I think aviation is an exciting field that will give those with IDD an opportunity to experience that freedom that flying gives. As passengers in the plane they will experience all that the pilot experiences without actually having to fly the plane. Promoting aviation is a goal I am passionate about and feel our non-profit will go a long way to participate in that effort."

John de Ruiter