What a news day! It started out quietly, but just before 9 a.m. we learned that a Nike executive jet was having trouble with its landing gear. Soon we found ourselves in wall-to-wall coverage as the Nike pilot tried to figure out a way to get the landing gear down. We deployed reporters to Portland International Airport (where we believed the plane might make an emergency landing after burning off fuel). We also sent reporters to Hillsboro Airport where the plane took off. We also got Sky 8 up so we could provide live pictures from the air. We started doing live interviews, including with Airport officials and with a spokesman from Nike. Brenda Braxton anchored our coverage from the newsroom. She didn't even have time to get out on the main news set because this story was developing so quickly. Dave Salesky, a licensed pilot, provided valuable insight into what the pilot might be thinking from the First Alert Storm Center. Even though he hadn't started his shift, our Aviation reporter, Jack Penning, called in to offer his expertise. Behind the scenes the assignment desk, producers, editors, directors and other reporters worked to gather information for the viewers. Around noon we reported that the pilot had managed to lower the landing gear and planned to land at the Hillsboro Airport. Finally, arouond 12:11 p.m. the plane, against a beautiful blue sky, headed down to the Hillsboro runway. Minutes later it landed safely. You could almost hear the collective sigh of relief.
Some people ask why we stick so long with a breaking news story like this. Good question. First, it is a dramatic story. A plane is in trouble. It is flying in circles around the Northwest, trying to fix the landing gear or burn fuel in preparation for an emergency landing. Second, it is an important story. The CEO of Oregon's largest home-grown corporation is on board the plane, as well as six other people. Third, KGW Northwest NewsChannel 8 is Where the News Comes First. We have made that commitment to our viewers. It is our responsbility to bring breaking news to our loyal viewers.
Whenever we have breaking news, I hear from some people that we have over done it. But the next day I can see how many viewers turn in for breaking news coverage. Usually our viewership peaks for breaking news coverage, which proves that viewers really do want us to provide coverage of such stories.
As I write this, we are in the middle of our early evening newscasts. Please tune in. You will see a terrific team of journalists doing what they do best in front and behind the camera.