Rob Holland Dies in Aerobatic Crash at Langley
Rob Holland, one of the world’s premier aerobatic pilots, was killed when his MX Aircraft MXS crashed at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, on April 24, 2025. The accident occurred at about 11:50 AM as he attempted to land following a practice flight, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Holland was the sole occupant of the aircraft and was pronounced dead at the scene. Langley, situated beside the Chesapeake Bay, had been preparing to host Holland’s performance at the Air Power Over Hampton Roads air show on April 26–27.
The crash took place just days before Holland was scheduled to headline the showcase event, where his high-energy routines and precise maneuvers had become main attractions. Organizers of the Hampton Roads show expressed profound sorrow at losing a pilot whose thrilling displays and personal warmth drew massive crowds and inspired fellow aviators.
At this stage, the cause of the accident remains unknown and is under investigation by the FAA, the National Transportation Safety Board and the Department of Defense. A statement on Holland’s company Facebook page confirmed the joint inquiry but provided no early findings. Officials have urged patience as they sift through flight data and examine wreckage to determine what went wrong.
Holland’s record in competition and performance was unparalleled. He won the U.S. National Aerobatic Championship for thirteen consecutive years, claimed the World Freestyle Championship six times, and earned the Art Scholl Award for Showmanship. Over his career, he amassed 37 international medals—14 of them gold—and represented the U.S. Aerobatic Team on ten occasions. His company, Rob Holland Ultimate Airshows, boasted the largest social media following of any civilian airshow act, extending his influence well beyond live events.
In tributes, Rob Holland Aerosports described him as “one of the most respected and inspiring aerobatic pilots in aviation history” who matched extraordinary achievement with genuine humility. “Rob’s singular goal was to be better than he was yesterday,” the statement read, celebrating his relentless pursuit of excellence and the deep connections he forged with audiences and peers.
The MX Aircraft MXS that Holland piloted was a cutting-edge aerobatic plane built from carbon fiber and developed with his direct input at MX Aircraft’s North Carolina facility. Powered by a 380-horsepower engine and weighing about 1,200 pounds, the aircraft can endure forces up to 16 Gs and perform roll rates approaching 500 degrees per second. Its robust design made it a favourite for freestyle routines and competitive aerobatics.
Holland’s death sent shockwaves through the airshow community. Fellow performers, team members and organizers shared condolences and recalled his mentorship and technical innovations that raised the bar for aerobatic flying. Plans are underway for memorial flights and tribute displays at upcoming events to honour his legacy and contribution to the sport.
As the FAA, NTSB and DOD continue their investigation, aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals mourn the loss of a pilot whose daring artistry redefined airshow performance. His loop-the-loops, precision rolls and fearless stunts became signature elements of the modern aerobatic display, ensuring that Rob Holland’s impact on aviation will endure in every tight turn and gravity-defying manoeuvre flown in his memory.
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