• Rob Holland, a celebrated aerobatic pilot, died in a crash at Langley Air Force Base.
• The crash occurred Thursday, shortly before he was set to perform at an upcoming airshow.
• The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident.
• Holland was known for his record of 13 U.S. National Aerobatic Championships.
• His passing has evoked tributes from the aviation community highlighting his legacy.

Renowned aerobatic pilot Rob Holland tragically lost his life in a plane crash at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, on Thursday. Holland was preparing to perform at the Air Power Over Hampton Roads Airshow that weekend, with announcements made via his official social media page describing him as "one of the most respected and inspiring aerobatic pilots in aviation history," emphasizing his humility and dedication to improvement according to ABC News and CBS News.

The crash took place while Holland was making a normal landing approach in his experimental MX Aircraft MXS, as confirmed by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Lead investigator Dan Boggs noted, "There was no acrobatic manoeuvres or nothing planned at that time," clearing the incident of any performance-related complications according to BBC and CBS News.

Holland, 50, had earned a remarkable reputation, winning 13 consecutive U.S. National Aerobatic Championships and over 37 international medals throughout his career. “Rob revolutionized our sport, not just within the USA but on the world stage,” stated Jim Bourke, president of the International Aerobatic Club, reflecting on his impact in the field according to ABC News, CBS News, and BBC.

His aircraft, a single-seater known as the MXS-RH, was custom-built with design modifications suggested by Holland himself, emphasizing his innovative spirit in aeronautics. The airshow scheduled for April 26 and 27 is expected to proceed, though many in the aviation community mourn the loss of such a talented pilot, underscoring his friendship and mentorship as pivotal in their lives according to ABC News and CBS News.