“Tenant Spotlight” Hal Richards, Terrell Municipal Airport - TRL
If you’ve spent any time around Terrell Municipal Airport, chances are you’ve met Hal Richards—a pilot, community leader, and one of TRL’s most dedicated advocates. His interest in aviation started long before he earned his pilot’s license in 2001. While attending Texas A&M, Hal admits he spent plenty of time reading aviation magazines when he probably should have been studying—an early sign of where his passion was headed.
Hal & Christi with thier Grandchildren
After moving to Terrell in 1981, Hal quickly formed a strong connection with the airport and the people around it. From early partnerships flying a Turbo Arrow to today’s Hangar Club conversations, aviation has remained a constant. He’s also quick to praise the Apex team, noting they are “always cheerful and quick to serve.”
In 2020, Hal purchased a Cirrus SR22, which he describes as a true “go-somewhere” airplane. Some of his most meaningful flights have been with Angel Flight, transporting patients—many battling cancer. “They never complain,” Hal says. “They’re incredibly courageous, and always grateful.”
Hal flying with his Son & Daughter-in-law
Service has always been central to Hal’s life. He served nine years as Mayor of Terrell and now chairs the Airport Advisory Board, where he continues to advocate for the airport as one of the community’s most important assets. With Texas growing rapidly and surface transportation struggling to keep up, Hal believes strong general aviation airports will play an even bigger role in the future.
He’s also deeply involved with the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum, helping preserve Terrell’s World War II aviation history. When he’s not flying or volunteering, Hal enjoys woodworking with hand tools and credits his wife, Christi—his “greatest supporter and occasional critic”—joking that he’s been her “50-year project.”
If Hal had to describe flying in one word, it would be “intense”—not stressful, but focused. His advice to aspiring pilots and anyone pursuing a passion is simple: persist. From aviation-obsessed student to pilot, volunteer, and leader, Hal Richards brings heart, humor, and dedication to everything he does. Terrell Municipal Airport is fortunate to have Hal’s steady leadership, passion, and advocacy helping guide its future.