Oct. 9, 2025
Film follows trailblazing Northwest Arkansas aviation family
CONWAY, Ark. (Arkansas PBS) — “Artistry in Air: The Story of the Younkins,” produced by independent Arkansas filmmaker Beth Lewis, premieres on Arkansas PBS and streaming at myarpbs.org/live Thursday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m. as part of our Arkansas Made series. The film follows a Northwest Arkansas family that has dominated the world of aviation for nearly 60 years by drawing upon its wealth of expertise, innovation and talent.
“At Arkansas PBS, we are deeply committed to celebrating the creative voices of our state,” Arkansas PBS Executive Director and CEO Carlton Wing said. “Showcasing the work of Arkansas filmmakers is not only a privilege – it’s a vital part of our mission to reflect the rich stories, culture and talent found in every corner of our community.
“We are grateful to provide a platform where homegrown storytellers can reach wider audiences and inspire future generations.”
The story begins with Jim Younkin, an accomplished engineer whose groundbreaking invention of a new autopilot series revolutionized the industry and set new standards in aircraft technology. Not only an inventor, Jim also earned national acclaim for his breathtaking restorations and faithful recreations of historic aircraft.
His son, Bobby Younkin, emerged as one of the preeminent aerobatic pilots of his generation. Following in the footsteps of their father and grandfather, Matt and Amanda Younkin continued the family’s involvement in aviation with distinction. Matt has been recognized as one of the best pilots currently performing on the airshow circuit, and Amanda married fellow airshow pilot Kyle Franklin, with whom she developed a new performance under Franklin’s business.
The Younkin family has faced profound tragedy during its three generations of aviation. Despite these events, the Younkin name remains a revered symbol of innovation, artistry and dedication within the aviation industry.
Additional information about the Younkin family can be found at younkinair.com.
About Arkansas PBS
Arkansas PBS, Arkansas’s only statewide public media network, empowers learners of all ages by educating, informing, entertaining and inspiring communities. Arkansas PBS serves as a daily and essential resource for Arkansans by creating, sharing, celebrating and driving conversation around Arkansas stories and classic, trusted PBS programs through multiple digital platforms, including livestreaming at myarpbs.org/live, on-demand services and YouTube TV, and the distinct channels Arkansas PBS, Arkansas PBS Create, Arkansas PBS KIDS, Arkansas PBS WORLD and Arkansas PBS AIRS on SAP. Members with Arkansas PBS Passport have extended on-demand access to a rich library of public television programming. Arkansas PBS depends on the generosity of Arkansans and the State of Arkansas to continue offering quality programming. Additional information is available at myarkansaspbs.org. Arkansas PBS is broadcast on KETS (Little Rock), KEMV (Mountain View), KETG (Arkadelphia), KAFT (Fayetteville), KTEJ (Jonesboro), KETZ (El Dorado), KETS (Lee Mountain), KETS (Forrest City), KETS (Yancy) and KETS (Gaither).
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