Update: Reno Jet Gold Race Ends in Tragedy

Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at 10:03 AM ET

Verified

RARA / Ballista, the L-29 flown by pilot Aaron Hogue, was at the top position for the start of the Jet Gold Class race on Sunday. [From racingjets.com]

Key Takeaways:

The 2022 Reno Air Races ended tragically with the death of pilot Aaron Hogue, who crashed his L-29 jet "Ballista" during the Jet Gold race on Sunday.
The accident prompted the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) to immediately halt and cancel all remaining races and closing ceremonies.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the fatal incident.
RARA expressed profound grief for Hogue's loss, highlighting the solidarity and support within the racing community which gathered for a dinner in lieu of an awards ceremony.

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A dusty series of races for 2022 ended abruptly on Sunday afternoon. Reno Air Racing Association’s (RARA) Stihl National Championship Air Races saw tragedy in the Jet Gold race, with pilot Aaron Hogue flying into the dirt in his L-29, Ballista.

Pilots on scene posted onto social media immediately following the accident, which took place near Pylon 5 on the course. All other jets in the heat returned to base safely.