Airshow pilot Rob Holland, 50, tragically died in a plane crash at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia on Thursday. He was scheduled to perform at the Air Power Over Hampton Roads airshow that weekend. The crash involved an MX Aircraft MXS that was attempting to land at the base, with only the pilot on board. The cause of the crash is currently unknown, and the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating.
Holland was a highly acclaimed airshow performer with a career spanning two decades. He held numerous titles and awards, including 12 consecutive U.S. National Aerobatic Championships and five-time World Freestyle Aerobatic Champion. Holland was recognized with the prestigious Art Scholl Award for Showmanship in 2012.
A native of New England, Holland had a lifelong passion for flying and aerobatics. He had over 15,000 hours in the air and flew more than 180 types of aircraft. Holland’s goal was to push the limits of what could be done in aerobatics and take the sport to the next level. He flew an MXS-RH aircraft, which he helped design with modifications specific to his preferences.
Despite the tragic loss, the airshow at Langley Air Force Base proceeded as a tribute to Holland’s legacy and skill as a pilot. Col. Matthew Altman spoke of Holland’s impact on the aviation community and his talent in the air. The world of aviation has truly lost a legend in Rob Holland.
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