Fatal L-29 crash at Reno air races

[K5054NZ]

From the Reno Air Racing Association’s Facebook page:

We can confirm that during the Jet Gold Race on the third lap there was a fatal incident at Outer Pylon 5 today. There will be an investigation conducted by the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) and the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration.)

All other pilots landed safely and race operations for 2022 have been suspended. We express our deepest sympathies to the pilot’s family and friends as well as racers and race fans who make up our September family.

The aircraft was Aero L-29 “Ballista” Race #29 (N129MM) flown by Aaron Hogue, who was Rookie of the Year in 2021. I was watching live on YouTube and saw the whole thing, it was awful. A terrible end to what had been a great day of racing.

[K5054NZ]

The Reno Air Racing Association has formally identified the pilot in an email newsletter:

Pilot Lost in Fatal Crash During Jet Gold Race
Aaron Hogue, 61, Lost in Fatal Crash
On Sunday, we lost a pilot and friend to a fatal crash during the third lap of the Jet Gold Race. Race #29, “Ballista,” an Aero Vodochody L-29 was piloted by Aaron Hogue, who was killed on impact. An investigation into the incident is being conducted by the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) and the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). We will provide more information as it becomes available.

Our hearts, prayers, and support go out to Aaron’s family and friends, and also to those in the racing community who mourn with us.

Please watch the press conference from today from RARA Chairman and CEO Fred Telling in the block below.