Ethan Dang is helping to redefine aircraft detailing, blending social media influence with technology to modernize an often-overlooked industry. As the Entrepreneur and Founder of Onground Systems and University Mobile Detailers, he has built a nationwide network that connects charter operators, private jet owners, and independent detailers. Through @udetailers on TikTok, he has educated millions and helped transform aircraft detailing into a more sought-after career.
A Journey from Cars to Private Jets
Ethan’s path to aviation detailing started at UC Berkeley, where he ran a car rental business while detailing vehicles on the side. His passion for branding and business led him to explore new opportunities, and he soon identified a gap in the aircraft detailing industry. Private aviation often lacked high-quality, reliable cleaning services, and he saw potential opportunities for improvement.
With this realization, he founded University Mobile Detailers, which grew to become Northern California’s leading aircraft detailing service. But Ethan didn’t stop there. He recognized that the industry was still operating with outdated systems, so he took the next step, leveraging technology to streamline the process. This vision led to the creation of Onground Systems, now one of the largest independent aircraft detailing networks in the U.S.

TikTok’s Impact on the Aviation Industry
What started as a simple way to showcase his work became a viral sensation. University Mobile Detailers, @udetailers on TikTok, has garnered hundreds of millions of views, drawing attention to an industry that was once behind the scenes. His videos, including one featuring a deep-cleaned private jet carpet that amassed over 12.1 million views, have helped shift public perception of aircraft detailing.
Ethan faced resistance early on. Some industry professionals expressed concerns about the transparency of his videos, and he even lost jobs because of it. But instead of backing down, he adapted. He refined his content to be brand-friendly, turning skepticism into partnerships with major charter operators. His TikTok presence didn’t just entertain; it educated, inspired, and helped attract new talent into the field.
“Aircraft detailing used to be an often-overlooked part of aviation,” Ethan explains. “Now, thanks to TikTok, people are beginning to recognize the craftsmanship behind keeping private jets pristine.”
Scaling Nationwide with Onground Systems
Expanding beyond Northern California required a new approach. Ethan knew that aircraft detailing was a specialized skill that demanded precision, reliability, and efficiency. Operators needed a practical way to book services, and detailers needed access to consistent work.
With Onground Systems, Ethan built a pioneering technology-driven network that connects aircraft owners, charter companies, and professional detailers nationwide. The platform simplifies scheduling, standardizes service quality, and keeps aircraft prepared for flight. He aims to integrate Onground Systems’ APIs into scheduling platforms used by FBOs and private operators, making aircraft detailing more straightforward than ever before.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
Building an industry-changing business wasn’t without obstacles. Beyond the pushback from those who were hesitant about transparency, Ethan had to educate the market on why aircraft detailing is a specialized craft. Many didn’t understand its importance, but through social media, he showcased the expertise, attention to detail, and rigorous standards required to service private jets.
His persistence has begun to pay off. Today, Onground Systems is emerging as a preferred detailing solution for private aviation, and @udetailers has inspired a new generation of aircraft detailers.
The Future of Aircraft Detailing
Ethan isn’t slowing down. His ambitions include:
- Expanding Onground Systems to become a leading detailing solution for charter aviation.
- Developing AI-driven training programs to help elevate aircraft detailing standards.
- Cementing @udetailers as one of the recognized social media brands for aviation cleaning.
Ethan Dang has done more than build a business; he’s helped reshape an industry. With a mix of entrepreneurship, technology, and social media influence, he has made aircraft detailing more visible, aspirational, and efficient.
To learn more about Onground Systems, visit www.ongroundsystems.com.
For behind-the-scenes content and expert detailing insights, follow @udetailers on TikTok.
Published by Tom W.