Matt Younkin, air show pilot extraordinaire, makes a return to Oshkosh for a different kind of show — this time on stage rather than in the sky. As the next speaker in EAA’s Aviation Adventure Speaker Series, Matt, EAA 864693, will share the Younkin history, his experiences, and the thrill of flying in front of crowds in his presentation at the EAA Aviation Museum on Thursday, February 15, at 7 p.m.
A third-generation pilot, Matt carries on the legacy of his father and grandfather, Bobby and Jim Younkin. Jim Younkin was a well-known aircraft designer and restorer and even built replicas of 1930s racers such as Mister Mulligan. Bobby Younkin, often considered one of the best air show performers of all time, delivered exhilarating and unique performances — a quality that shines through Matt in his one-of-a-kind routines in his 1943 Beech 18.
“I was privileged enough to grow up in a facet of aviation that not many people get to experience, and getting to carry that on, as much of that as I can, is an honor. I’m really proud of my heritage,” Matt expressed.
Bobby had the idea to modify a Beech 18 for aerobatics, an aircraft typically used for transport, and impressed audiences across the nation with his ability to loop and roll such a large aircraft. Now more than 30 years since the routine’s conception, Matt continues the tradition of shocking audiences with a few added tricks of his own.
Matt’s latest achievement is perfecting the world’s only night aerobatic show in a Beech 18. With more than 50 externally mounted lights coordinating with music, the Beech 18 glows and twinkles in the sky — a sight you can expect to see at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024.
Matt is a staple in AirVenture air shows, having performed numerous times over the years, though that’s not the only reason he makes the trip all the way from Arkansas. “[AirVenture] has become quite the family tradition. It was always a vacation that we looked forward to when my dad was participating many years ago,” said Matt. “Whether I was invited back to perform or not, we would still put it on the calendar… It’s become a part of our family, so I’m beyond honored to be invited back to participate again this year.”
Thursday’s presentation is free for EAA members and youths 5 and under, and just $5 for nonmembers.