Rob Holland, one of America’s most famous stunt pilots, died in a tragic crash on April 24, 2025. The accident happened at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia. He was preparing for an airshow scheduled for the weekend.

News of his death shocked the aviation world. Rob wasn’t just any pilot. He was a six-time world freestyle aerobatic champion. He had fans around the world who loved his daring skills and humble nature.

Who Was Rob Holland?

Rob was born on May 30, 1974, in New England. From a young age, he loved flying. Over the years, he became one of the most skilled pilots in the U.S.

He wasn’t just good—he was the best. He made his mark in both airshows and national competitions. Rob also inspired many young pilots with his passion and kindness.

He flew a custom-built plane called the MXS-RH. It was made of carbon fiber and could handle wild stunts in the air. Rob used this aircraft to push the limits of what was possible.

The Crash in Virginia

Rob was flying into Langley Air Force Base on a Thursday afternoon. He was practicing for the “Air Power Over Hampton Roads” show.

While landing, his plane went down. Emergency crews rushed to help, but it was too late.

The National Transportation Safety Board is looking into what caused the crash. So far, no clear answers have been shared.

This accident happened just days before the airshow. People were excited to see Rob perform. Instead, they are mourning the loss of a legend.

His Record-Breaking Career

Rob’s list of awards is unmatched. He won:

• 6 World Freestyle Aerobatic titles (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2024)
• 13 U.S. National Aerobatic Championships
• 14 U.S. National Freestyle titles

He also won the Art Scholl Award for Showmanship in 2012. The Blue Angels named him an honorary member in 2019. The Canadian Snowbirds honored him too.

Rob was known for inventing new tricks in the air. Some of his moves had never been seen before. He loved to take risks—but always with control.

Every flight was a show of skill, speed, and style. He made hard stunts look easy.

Fans and Fellow Pilots Pay Tribute

After the crash, messages poured in from around the world. Pilots, fans, and airshow organizers shared stories and photos.

His team posted on Facebook:

“Even with all his wins, Rob stayed humble. He always aimed to be better than yesterday.”

This line sums him up. Rob never bragged. He just kept getting better, one flight at a time.

Many fans shared how he had helped them. Some had met him at airshows. Others had watched him fly online or on TV. All agreed—he made flying an art.

A Legacy That Lives On

Rob Holland’s impact on aerobatics will last forever. He raised the bar for what a pilot can do. More than that, he showed that greatness and kindness can go together.

Young pilots will study his videos. Fans will remember his shows. The skies may feel a little emptier, but his spirit will fly on.

Airshows won’t be the same without him. But every twist and turn in the sky will remind people of Rob Holland.

Final Thoughts

Rob Holland was more than a champion. He was a pioneer, a teacher, and a friend to many. His loss is deep, but his story is far from over.

He lived with purpose. He flew with passion. He left behind a record that will be hard to beat—and a legacy that will never fade.