In the world of aviation enthusiasts, few names resonate like Jerry Dyer’s. Since launching Big Jet TV in 2016, Dyer has transformed planespotting from a niche hobby into a global phenomenon, captivating hundreds of thousands of viewers with his live, up-close footage of aircraft landings at Heathrow Airport — Britain’s busiest hub. With a commentary style that’s equal parts technical insight and infectious enthusiasm, he brings the drama of aviation into living rooms worldwide. From the heart-stopping moments of huge jets battling fierce crosswinds to the quieter beauty of vintage planes taking to the skies, Dyer’s passion and knowledge have made him a beloved figure in a community spanning hobbyists, industry professionals, and casual fans alike. I spent a day with Jerry to uncover what fuels his obsession, the rise of Big Jet TV, and why watching planes isn’t just about the aircraft — it’s about the stories they tell.
Meeting the man behind the lens
Jerry Dyer is far from your average aviation fan. At his leafy home near Heathrow Airport, the walls and shelves brim with aviation memorabilia, while the ground floor houses flight simulators and a bespoke broadcasting studio. Central to this setup is a meticulously crafted scale model airport, affectionately named “Staines International,” where Dyer hones his craft and engages with his audience.
Twenty minutes later, we’re perched atop the roof-mounted gantry of his Big Jet TV Transit van, parked beside the airfield. Donning headphones, Dyer expertly pans and zooms his camera, narrating live to thousands of viewers worldwide as one aircraft after another streaks across the sky. At Heathrow, a plane lands approximately every 55 seconds — each arrival unique, influenced by weather, pilot skill, and sheer engineering marvel.
“It’s a feeling you either get or you don’t,” Dyer explains. “To most people, planes are just metal tubes taking them from A to B. But to us, they’re living machines — emotional and jaw-dropping feats of engineering. Unless I’m playing golf, this is what gets me up in the morning.”
From humble beginnings to viral sensation
Big Jet TV first soared into the public eye during Storm Eunice in February 2022, when Jerry’s live broadcasts captured the drama of pilots wrestling with fierce winds to safely land aircraft at Heathrow. The channel’s blend of expert commentary and raw, unfiltered footage quickly went viral, with mainstream media spotlighting Dyer’s work. It wasn’t long before celebrities — from Chelsea footballers to game developers at Call of Duty — admitted to watching, sometimes to the detriment of their day jobs.
Though Dyer’s fascination with planes is lifelong, his career path was anything but linear. The son of a pilot, he spent childhood days at airshows but moved through various industries, from city trading to publishing niche magazines, before finally committing full-time to aviation content in 2016. Today, Big Jet TV supports him financially through a combination of video revenue, subscriptions, merchandise, and live events — yet for Dyer, it’s never been about the money.
“Big Jet TV is about the community,” he says. “Our members range from five-year-olds to seasoned pilots and engineers. Some come just to watch, others find inspiration to pursue careers in aviation. That’s what keeps it all worthwhile.”
Teamwork behind the scenes
Running a global YouTube channel with a live broadcasting schedule is no easy feat. Key to Big Jet TV’s smooth operation is Gilly Prestwood, the director of operations and the only employee. Once a fan herself, Gilly now manages logistics, customer service, and early-morning set-ups for major events.
“I couldn’t operate without her,” Dyer admits. “She’s the glue holding everything together, getting up at 5am when we have big shows, sorting problems, running the store. It’s hard work, but she loves it as much as I do.” Their collaboration has allowed Big Jet TV to grow from a hobby project to an internationally recognized aviation platform, with a membership that spans continents and ages.
A love letter to aviation’s past and future
What sets Big Jet TV apart is Jerry’s genuine passion for both old and new aircraft. He reflects fondly on aviation’s history — from the elegant Viscounts and Comets of early British Airways days to the technological marvels of today’s jets.
As a British Airways A350 glides overhead, Dyer pauses to admire its engineering. “The way aviation technology has evolved over such a short time is fascinating,” he says. “Old planes were built tough, real aircraft, but modern ones are incredible in their own way — all those computer controls and wing flexing.”
When it comes to favorites, Dyer doesn’t hesitate: “The Dreamliner is my favorite. Its wing flexes 11 feet during takeoff — it’s plastic, insane but beautiful.” Each landing is a symphony of human skill and physics, he says, “every touchdown different, influenced by weather and pilot inputs. That’s what makes it so compelling.”
Making planespotting cool and accessible
Big Jet TV’s growing subscriber base — now nearing half a million — reflects a shift in planespotting’s popularity. Once viewed as an eccentric pastime, it’s now embraced by a broader audience who appreciate the thrill of watching massive jets perform under challenging conditions.
“People love seeing an A380 or 747 battle crosswinds,” Dyer explains. “Every show has a ‘wow’ moment — whether it’s a tricky landing or a vintage Douglas DC-3 taking off. During Storm Eunice, we had 268,000 live viewers, and typical shows draw thousands online.” His success is also thanks to excellent relationships with Heathrow Airport and local businesses, which provide exclusive filming access at multiple locations around the airfield.
How to spot aircraft at heathrow
For aviation fans looking to try planespotting themselves, Dyer offers practical advice. At Heathrow, Myrtle Avenue is a popular viewing spot, while some hotels like the Renaissance, Courtyard, and Thistle offer vantage points — though access is limited to patrons.
“With big airports, spotting locations can vary depending on wind and operations, so it’s wise to check in with spotting communities like ours for tips,” he says. “Pack a folding chair, snacks, and plenty of camera batteries — you’ll want to be ready for a full day.” Other European hubs such as Brussels, Frankfurt, Schiphol, and Zurich have dedicated viewing areas and are great destinations for day trips, he adds.
What if big jet TV wasn’t his life?
When asked what else he might do if not planespotting, Dyer doesn’t hesitate. “I’d like to run an airline,” he says with a grin. “Bosh.”For now, though, he’s content keeping the world tuned in, one landing at a time.
