ENG really took off with the now famous aerial shots of the O.J. Simpson car chase. Since then every serious TV station in the USA has aquired their own ENG machines or service providers. (Robinson even builds a R-44 "Newscopter" fully equipped ex factory).
Sky TV in the UK uses their chopper extensively. Aerial footage simply provides a great perspective to earthbound mortals - look at the Copper Chopper stuff on Reality TV.
It appears that the SABC is more keen on talking heads politicians and have just lost a great service. I seem to recall a number of events where "their" newscopter (now E-TV's) was first on scene with quite dramatic shots.
And now it would appear that E-News's line of "no fear, no favour" journalism will use the ENG service to its best potential. I say go for it! At least they have kept an honest operation and some good people gainfully employed...
