Fatal airshow crash claims life of renowned aviator, days prior to scheduled performance
Xtreme aviator Rob Holland tragically met his end in a crash at Langley Air Force Base, where he was slated to perform in the Air Power Over Hampton Roads airshow this weekend. His specially designed MXS aerobatic plane was preparing for landing around 11:50 a.m. when the incident occurred, according to a statement released by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The aircraft was his sole occupied vehicle.
"The reason behind the crash is unclear at present, and is under investigation by the FAA, NTSB, and DOD," a post on Holland's company's Facebook page said, referring to the National Transportation Safety Board and the Department of Defense.
"Rob was one of the most revered and inspiring aerobatic pilots in aviation history," the statement continued. "Despite an outstanding list of accomplishments, both in competitive aerobatics and the air show scene, Rob was the most humble person, constantly striving to be better than he was yesterday."
Holland's single-seat aerobatic plane was constructed from carbon fiber and capable of withstanding 16Gs plus rolls at 500 degrees per second, according to his website. He had spent over two decades as a full-time air show pilot.
"The world lost an extraordinary pilot, an incredible individual, and a genuine hero who influenced countless lives," the E3Aviation Association posted. "With over 15,000 flight hours across more than 180 aircraft types, Rob's skill was rivaled only by his unquenchable passion for flight."
Holland earned 37 medals in international competitions and was a 13-time U.S. National Aerobatic Champion, his website noted.
The crash details:- Rob Holland was piloting an experimental MX Aircraft MXS when it crashed on approach to Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. The accident occurred on Thursday, April 25, 2025, shortly before noon during a standard landing procedure, not while performing aerial stunts.- The crash is being investigated by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB officials stated that Holland was in contact with the control tower prior to the crash but are still working to obtain the details of those communications.- Rob Holland was a renowned aerobatic pilot and a 13-time U.S. National Aerobatic champion. He was set to participate in the Air Power Over Hampton Roads Airshow at Langley Air Force Base over the weekend following the crash.- Despite the accident, officials have decided to proceed with the scheduled air show.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.
- Despite his tragic death, Rob Holland, the acclaimed aerobatic pilot, accomplished an impressive list of achievements, including 37 medals in international competitions and 13 U.S. National Aerobatic Championships.
- Piloting his specially designed MX Aircraft MXS, capable of withstanding 16Gs, Holland had dedicated over two decades to the air show scene, showcasing his skills in sports like aerobatics.
- Absolutely on the morning of the unfortunate incident, Holland's aircraft, a single-seater constructed from carbon fiber, was preparing for landing at Langley Air Force Base, where he was scheduled to perform in the Air Power Over Hampton Roads airshow that weekend.
