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Mike Hearne interviews Oklahomans and those who have made Oklahoma home. Talking about their businesses, why they love this state and more.
This is Jim Gardner - Helicopter Pilot & Airborne Reporter
This is Oklahoma
1 hour 9 minutes
3 days ago
This is Jim Gardner - Helicopter Pilot & Airborne Reporter
On this episode I chatted with the legend Jim Gardner. With more than 14,000 flight hours across legendary helicopters like the Bell 206, 407, 505, and the Airbus A-Star, Jim Gardner has spent 40 years mastering the skies. From live police pursuits to storm tracking and Hollywood film sets, Jim built a career on precision flying, calm under pressure, and an unwavering commitment to truth and safety.
He began his aviation journey in Los Angeles in 1985, ultimately becoming the chief pilot for KCAL Channel 9. There, he flew through the heart of breaking news history—covering the O.J. Simpson chase and trial, the L.A. riots, devastating earthquakes, and fast-moving wildfires that tested every skill in the cockpit.
In 1996, Jim returned home to Oklahoma, where his legacy took flight once again. He joined KFOR Channel 4 as pilot and airborne reporter, later moving to KWTV Channel 9, where he remained until retiring in 2025. His aerial coverage became an iconic part of Oklahoma broadcasting, earning the trust of viewers and the respect of professionals across the nation.
www.pilotjimgardner.com
Huge thank you to our sponsors.
The Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum telling Oklahoma’s story through its people since 1927. For more information go to www.oklahomahof.com and for daily updates go to www.instagram.com/oklahomahof
The Chickasaw Nation is economically strong, culturally vibrant and full of energetic people dedicated to the preservation of family, community and heritage. www.chickasaw.net
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This is Oklahoma
Mike Hearne interviews Oklahomans and those who have made Oklahoma home. Talking about their businesses, why they love this state and more.