KITV 4: A Legacy of Broadcasting in Hawaii
Since its first broadcast in the mid-1950s, KITV 4 has served as a cornerstone of the media landscape in Honolulu, Hawaii. Known for its long-standing affiliation with ABC, the station has undergone numerous transformations in ownership, call signs, and technical capabilities to remain a vital source of information for the islands.
Key Facts
- First Air Date: April 16, 1954
- Current Owner: Allen Media Group
- Primary Affiliation: ABC
- Digital Channel: 20 (Virtual Channel 4)
- Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
The Evolution of KITV
The station's history is a complex journey through different eras of television. It originally began its life as KULA-TV in 1954. During its early years, the station operated with a secondary affiliation with the DuMont network. In 1958, the station underwent a significant change, becoming KHVH-TV, a period closely associated with the influence of Henry J. Kaiser.
Over the decades, the station saw various ownership shifts, moving through the hands of Western Telestations, Starr, Shamrock, Tak, Argyle/Hearst, and SJL, before eventually coming under the stewardship of the Allen Media Group. Throughout these transitions, the station has maintained its identity as a primary news provider for the region.
Notable On-Air Personalities
KITV has been home to several prominent figures in Hawaiian broadcasting. Notable former staff members include:
- Paula Akana: A respected evening news anchor who served from 1995 to 2020.
- Kanoa Leahey: A well-known sports reporter and weekend news anchor active from 1999 to 2004.
Technical Infrastructure and Subchannels
KITV currently transmits its signal from the top of the Ala Moana Hotel. This technical setup allows the station to utilize multiplexing—a method of combining multiple digital signals into a single transmission—to provide several different programming options to viewers via its subchannels.
The station's digital lineup includes a variety of networks catering to different interests:
- 4.1: KITV-HD (ABC)
- 4.2: MeTV
- 4.3: Hawaii TV (Local news)
- 4.4: StartTV
- 4.5: Heroes & Icons
- 4.6: One Caribbean Television
Station and Satellite Overview
To ensure coverage across the Hawaiian Islands, KITV operates in conjunction with satellite stations. These stations help extend the reach of broadcast services to different regions, including Hilo and Wailuku.
| Station Call Sign | City of License | Channel (VC) | First Air Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| KITV | Honolulu | 4 (20) | April 16, 1954 |
| KHVO | Hilo | 4 (13) | May 15, 1960 |
| KMAU | Wailuku | 4 (12) | December 4, 1955 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current digital channel for KITV?
While viewers tune in to virtual channel 4, the station actually transmits on digital UHF channel 20.
Who owns KITV 4 today?
The station is currently owned by the Allen Media Group (KITV, Inc.).
What does the call sign KITV stand for?
The call sign is an abbreviation for Island Television.
Does KITV have local news subchannels?
Yes, subchannel 4.3 (KITV-D3) is dedicated to Hawaii TV, providing local news content.
Where is the KITV transmitter located?
The station transmits from the top of the Ala Moana Hotel in Honolulu.