KUALA LUMPUR: A helicopter pilot has garnered online acclaim by actively sharing a video of himself operating a light aircraft on TikTok, capturing the fascination of netizens.
The online community was overwhelmingly impressed by the pilot’s adeptness in navigating the Robinson R44 Clipper I helicopter, sparking their enthusiasm to uncover his flying techniques.
Adding to the fascination, he graciously shared his aviation knowledge by frequently responding to questions from netizens in the comment section.
Offering a glimpse into his world, the 50-year-old pilot, who only wanted to be known as Mr HeliBro, told Bernama recently that he shared the videos to inspire Malaysians of all ages and nurture their interest in aviation, particularly helicopters.
"People often say flying a helicopter is hard, but the truth is, it’s not as tricky as it seems. Through my TikTok videos, I casually walk my followers through landing and flying techniques, weather concerns, technical aspects and helicopter maintenance tips.
"I’m indirectly inspiring and motivating the younger generation, emphasising that with dedicated effort, it’s possible for them to become skilled helicopter pilots,” he added.
With more than two decades of experience in the field, Mr HeliBro said that, despite opting for early retirement, his ongoing interest prompted him to run a business in the aviation sector to fill up his free time.
The single father said he will also be opening a heliport and a cafe in Ampang, which are currently in the final stages of construction and set to be fully operational by the end of this month.
Offering a unique chance, the heliport allows visitors to get up close with the helicopter, and individuals keen on taking photos with the aircraft can do so free of charge, under the attentive supervision of the Mr HeliBro team.
Mr HeliBro further said that his team provides the public with a chance to enjoy helicopter rides through a cost-sharing flight service, offering a reasonably priced alternative compared to other commercial options.
"In cost-sharing flights, both passengers and the pilot come to a mutual agreement on the flight expenses, with the understanding that the operational expenses will be divided among them,” he said.
Recounting his career journey, Mr HeliBro shared that his early fascination with airplanes took root during the 1970s while living in the Mahkota Camp, Kluang, Johor, influenced by his late father’s role as an army personnel member.
"The camp served as a training ground for Air Force aviators. I found myself captivated by the daily scenes of pilots in training and planes ascending into the sky.
"That experience fueled my unwavering determination that one day I too would take to the skies as a pilot,” said the man, who also has a profound interest in parachuting.
Mr HeliBro said that his dream of obtaining a flight licence persisted as he worked as a machine designer in Osaka, Japan, in 1997, after graduating from Chiba University.
"On every holiday break, I would have a trip to the United States for aviation training, delving into diverse aspects of flying. Through gradual and persistent learning, I successfully earned my pilot’s licence in 2000,” said Mr HeliBro, who also possesses the skill to fly other types of aircraft, including the L-39 Albatros fighter jet and aerobatic aircraft.- Bernama
