With millions of creations using the hashtags #aviation, #airport and #planespotting, it's clear the TikTok community are taking their passion for the skies to new heights and turning to TikTok experts to learn everything there is to know about aviation. One creator who is flying high is TikTok's resident airport guy and engineer at Heathrow airport @mo_t_ivate, who is the star of this month's creator spotlight!
From baggage secrets to machine explainers, Mo keeps his nearly 400,000 followers hooked with behind the scenes looks at what really goes on at an airport. With over 8M likes, Mo's content resonates with not only aviation enthusiasts, but also those drawn to his infectious energy and fascinating insider knowledge and just want to learn something new.
We recently caught up with Mo to hear about what first inspired his content journey, the videos he loves making the most, and the creators who inspire him.
What first inspired you to share educational content on TikTok?
Honestly, this might sound a bit lame, but I just absolutely loved my job being an engineer at Heathrow Airport (@heathrowairport). Every single day I was going to work and learning something new about the Airport. Things that most people don’t usually talk about and don’t even know about. When I would go home and tell my family, I would pour my heart out about all the cool things I did that day. I grew up watching loads of videos with people teaching others about planes, but nobody ever spoke about the airport, so I decided to change that. That’s when I became 'The Airport Guy'.
Have you been surprised by the response from the community?
I had absolutely no idea there were so many people out there that would be fascinated by this topic. I am continuously flooded by people around the world asking me how they can also build a career in aviation. I find that the TikTok community is really passionate about building a career they will love, and I'm grateful I get to be a part of that journey by helping as many people as possible get into the industry.
What other educational creators do you follow on TikTok?
There are so many! Some of my favourites are @big.manny1 – the guy who does science experiments. Some of my favourite aviation pages are @aerojashan who makes epic explainer videos about aviation, and @stigaviation who gives his audience a behind the scenes look at how he maintains planes at Los Angeles International Airport.
What is your goal on TikTok?
To inspire young people to explore careers in aviation. With so many exciting opportunities available, TikTok is such a great way to share that message and spark their interest.
What is your favourite TikTok video you have made?
It’s actually one that has just been released. It shows how rubber from the tyres of planes melts and builds up on Dubai International Airports runways… then I show how the team remove it!
Finally, what else is on your For You feed?
A whole bunch of content from retired Navy SEAL @david_goggins_official! His catchphrase ‘Whosss gonna carry the boattssssss’ cracks me up!
New to TikTok and want to learn more about #aviation? Getting involved couldn't be easier, simply download the app for free via the Apple App Store, Google Play or Amazon.