NTSB Releases Preliminary Reports on Fatal Plane Crashes in Virginia, Ohio

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report on the fatal crash of aerobatic pilot Rob Holland at Langley Air Force Base, revealing that a loose elevator counterweight plug may have contributed to the accident. Witnesses described Holland's MX Aircraft MXS as making a normal approach before 'porpoising,' pitching up, rolling left, and crashing, with the left elevator counterweight plug found about 10 feet from the wreckage and showing evidence of having come loose in flight. The report notes that such a failure could have altered the aircraft's balance and led to a loss of control. Holland, a decorated and highly experienced aerobatic pilot, had worked with the manufacturer to customize his aircraft for performance routines, including modifications related to the elevator counterweights. The crash occurred as Holland was en route to perform at an airshow, and the event subsequently honored him with a moment of silence.