Stunt pilot Rob Holland died on Thursday when his MX Aircraft MXS crashed while approaching Langley Air Force Base. His death was confirmed by both military officials and a post on his official Facebook page.
Holland was a well-known and decorated air show pilot who had performed across the US. He was scheduled to fly at the Air Power Over Hampton Roads air show this weekend. His death happened just days before the event.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said it is investigating the crash of the experimental MX Aircraft MXS. Early reports show the crash took place during the plane’s approach to Langley AFB. The base said the crash happened at 11:39 a.m. and was related to preparations for the air show.
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Col. Matthew Altman, commander at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, said, “We lost a friend of our Air Force family. On behalf of our entire JBLE team, I want to express our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of this incredible aviator.”
Due to the incident, the base cancelled Thursday afternoon’s media event with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds pilots, calling it “unforeseen circumstances.” Despite the crash, base officials later said the air show is expected to go on as planned.
The NTSB confirmed that an investigator would arrive on Friday to carry out a full investigation into what caused the crash.
Holland had also performed in last year’s edition of the same air show and was considered a regular and popular figure in aviation events.
No other injuries were reported in connection with the crash.
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