A tragic incident during a pre-airshow practice run has shaken the aviation community and left fans mourning the loss of a legendary performer.
According to Fox News, Rob Holland, a celebrated aerobatic pilot with multiple world championships under his belt, lost his life when his experimental aircraft crashed at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia on Thursday afternoon.
The incident occurred around 2:10 p.m. when Holland's MX Aircraft MXS went down during what appears to be preparation for the upcoming Hampton Roads airshow. Holland was scheduled to perform alongside the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and other prestigious aerial demonstration teams at the weekend event.
Decorated pilot's remarkable achievements mark aviation history
Holland's death represents an immense loss to the aerobatic flying community. His impressive career included 12 consecutive victories at the U.S. National Aerobatic Championships. The accomplished pilot also secured five world Freestyle Aerobatic Championships throughout his career, demonstrating his exceptional skill and dedication to the craft.
A statement posted on Holland's Facebook page confirmed his passing and highlighted his contributions to aviation. The aviation community immediately began sharing tributes and memories of the legendary performer.
According to the statement shared on social media:
It is with the heaviest of hearts that I am sharing that Rob Holland lost his life today, 24 April 2025, in an accident at Langley AFB, VA. Rob was one of the most respected and inspiring aerobatic pilots in aviation history. Even with an absolutely impressive list of accomplishments, both in classical competition aerobatics and within the air show world, Rob was the most humble person with a singular goal to simply be better than he was yesterday.
Multiple agencies launch comprehensive investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board has taken the lead in investigating the crash, working alongside the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense. Initial reports classify the aircraft as "experimental," though specific details about what led to the incident remain unclear.
Langley Air Force Base officials have emphasized their commitment to safety while the investigation proceeds. Base representatives are coordinating with various agencies to determine the cause of the crash.
The incident prompted an immediate response from first responders and emergency personnel at the military installation. Base authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while maintaining regular operations.
Legacy of excellence and inspiration lives on
Holland's remarkable career spanned more than two decades, during which he earned the International Council of Airshows prestigious Art Scholl Award for Showmanship. This recognition stands as the highest honor an airshow pilot can receive, underlining Holland's exceptional impact on the field.
His scheduled appearance at the Hampton Roads airshow was eagerly anticipated by aviation enthusiasts. The event, featuring various military demonstration teams, will likely include tributes to Holland's memory.
The aviation community has begun sharing stories of Holland's influence on aspiring pilots and his contributions to aerobatic flying. His dedication to continuous improvement and humble approach to success have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Impact reverberates through aviation community
Rob Holland's fatal crash at Langley Air Force Base on Thursday afternoon marked the end of an extraordinary career in aerobatic flying. The incident, which occurred during preparation for the Hampton Roads airshow, claimed the life of one of aviation's most accomplished performers. As the NTSB, FAA, and Department of Defense conduct their investigation into the cause of the crash, Holland's legacy as a 12-time U.S. National Aerobatic Champion and five-time World Freestyle Aerobatic Champion continues to inspire future generations of pilots.
