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 

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