It is with great sorrow that we report the tragic passing of renowned American stunt pilot Rob Holland, who died in an accident at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, on April 24, 2025, at the age of 50. Rob was scheduled to showcase his awe-inspiring skills during an air show that weekend.
Celebrating the Legacy of Rob Holland
Rob Holland was not only an acclaimed aerobatic pilot, but he also made significant advancements in the world of aerobatics, earning numerous championship titles throughout his illustrious career. A heartfelt announcement regarding his untimely death was shared on his official Facebook page, proclaiming:
“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.”
The Facebook post continued to express the humility of Holland, stating:
“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. We would greatly appreciate your respect to the privacy of his family and friends.”
A Remarkable Career Filled with Accomplishments
Rob Holland was born on May 30, 1974, in New England. As highlighted in a eulogy from the E3 Aviation Association, he logged over 15,000 flight hours across more than 180 aircraft types throughout his career. His involvement in air shows and aerobatic competitions was extensive and impactful.
He was known for piloting his specialized MXS-RH, which allowed him to execute performances characterized as “not just displays of skill but expressions of artistry”. Rob’s journey into aviation began when he enrolled in Daniel Webster College where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management and Flight Operations while also securing his Pilot’s Ratings. Shortly after obtaining his license, Holland began focusing on mastering aerobatics.
Over the years, he amassed a diverse range of aviation experience, holding roles as a flight instructor, corporate pilot, commuter pilot, flag tower operator, and ferry pilot. He even founded his own school dedicated to aerobatic flight training.
Recognition and Awards
Holland’s formal participation in air shows began in 2002, during which he gained acclaim for his innovative and groundbreaking aerial maneuvers. His exceptional performance capabilities were demonstrated through his involvement with prominent teams, including the Firebirds Xtreme and the 4CE aerobatic teams. Notably, he won the World Advanced Aerobatic Championship in 2008 and was later honored with the Art Scholl Award for Showmanship from the International Council of AirShows in 2012. In 2019, he received the prestigious Eric Müller Trophy and celebrated an impressive six World Freestyle Aerobatic Champion titles.
Remarkably, he held the title of U.S. National Aerobatic Champion for 13 consecutive years and won the U.S. National Freestyle Aerobatic Championship title 14 times. His dedication and skill were further acknowledged when he was named an Honorary Blue Angel and honored as a member of the First Flight Society in 2019. Rob also claimed the Charlie Hillard Trophy five times and excelled in the World Air Games Aerobatic Freestyle in 2015, as well as the Sky Grand Prix Aerobatic Freestyle in 2016.
A Continuing Investigation
At present, the specifics surrounding the tragic accident that claimed Rob Holland’s life remain unclear. Authorities including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and the Department of Defense (DOD) are conducting thorough investigations into the circumstances of the crash. The global aerobatic community mourns the loss of a true aviation pioneer.