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

Dog House OKC - When it comes to furry four-legged care, our 24/7 supervised cage free play and overnight boarding services make The Dog House OKC in Oklahoma City the best place to be, at least, when they’re not in their own backyard. With over 6,000 square feet of combined indoor/outdoor play areas our dog daycare enriches spirit, increases social skills, builds confidence, and offers hours of exercise and stimulation for your dog http://www.thedoghouseokc.com

#ThisisOklahoma

This is Jim Gardner - Helicopter Pilot & Airborne Reporter

Powered by Wave AI