The aviation world is mourning the tragic loss of Rob Holland, one of the most celebrated aerobatic pilots in history, who died in a plane crash at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, on April 24, 2025. The accident occurred just days before Holland was scheduled to perform at the highly anticipated Air Power Over Hampton Roads air show, leaving the airshow community and fans in shock and grief.
The Langley Air Crash: What Happened?
On Thursday morning, around 11:39 a.m., Rob Holland’s experimental MX Aircraft MXS crashed while he was attempting to land at Langley Air Force Base. Holland was the sole occupant of the single-seat, all-carbon-fiber aerobatic aircraft, which is renowned for its high-performance capabilities in airshows and competitions. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed the crash, noting that the investigation into the cause is ongoing.
The accident occurred as final preparations were underway for the biennial Air Power Over Hampton Roads air show, where Holland was a featured performer. Despite the tragedy, base officials stated that the airshow would proceed as planned, honoring Holland’s legacy and contributions to the field.
Who Was Rob Holland?
Rob Holland was a legend in the world of aerobatics and airshows. He began flying as a teenager and quickly rose through the ranks, earning his private pilot certificate before embarking on a career that would see him become one of the most decorated pilots in the sport. Holland’s achievements include:
- Thirteen-time consecutive U.S. National Aerobatic Champion
- Six-time World 4-Minute Freestyle Champion
- Fourteen-time U.S. 4-Minute Freestyle Champion
- 2015 World Air Games Freestyle Gold Medalist
- 2008 World Advanced Aerobatic Champion
- Ten-time U.S. Aerobatic Team Member
- Thirty-seven medals in international competition, including fourteen golds
Holland was known not only for his skill and showmanship in the cockpit but also for his humility, sportsmanship, and commitment to inspiring others. Friends, colleagues, and fans have described him as a “humble person with a singular goal to simply be better than he was yesterday”.
The Investigation
The NTSB is leading a multipronged investigation into the crash, with support from the FAA and the Department of Defense due to the incident’s proximity to a military base. Investigators are examining the aircraft, Holland’s flight path, weather conditions, and maintenance records to determine the cause of the accident. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while a full analysis may take up to two years.
Impact on the Airshow Community
Rob Holland’s death has sent shockwaves through the airshow and aviation communities. As a staple at major events such as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo, Holland was admired by fellow pilots and fans alike for pushing the boundaries of aerobatic flight. His passing is a profound loss, and tributes have poured in from around the world.
Col. Matthew Altman, commander of Joint Base Langley-Eustis, expressed the base’s condolences, stating, “Today we lost a friend of our Air Force family. On behalf of our entire JBLE team, I want to express our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of this incredible aviator”.
For more about Rob Holland’s impact on aerobatics and aviation, see our detailed profile of Rob Holland’s aerobatic legacy.
Legacy and Remembrance
Rob Holland’s legacy will endure through his groundbreaking achievements, his influence on the next generation of pilots, and the inspiration he provided to countless aviation enthusiasts. As the investigation continues, the airshow community and the public are encouraged to remember Holland not just for his records and titles, but for his passion, humility, and dedication to the art of flight.
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