MURCHISON, Texas — Authorities have identified Ron and Barbara Timmermans as the two victims who died in a plane crash in Murchison, Texas, Wednesday evening around 5:13 p.m. The couple, who owned and operated AileRon T LLC, an aviation company based in Orlando, Florida, were both experienced pilots and highly respected members of the aviation community. Remarkably, a dog onboard the aircraft survived the crash.
Ron Timmermans had dedicated decades to aviation and flight instruction. Since joining the Florida Aviation Network in 2017, he provided pro bono services as a host, interviewing aviation professionals at major events such as Sun ’n Fun in Lakeland, FL, EAA AirVenture, and the US Sport Aviation Expo. He was also recognized as National Certified Flight Instructor of the Year in 2021 and logged more than 4,000 hours of dual instruction across Florida and North Texas. Ron was actively involved in programs such as the Beechcraft Pilot Proficiency Program and the Bonanza Pilot Training Program, and credited his wife Barbara for inspiring him to become a flight instructor.
Officials said the couple declared an emergency during the flight due to oil on the windshield. The aircraft, a 1994 Beech A36 single-engine plane, attempted to divert but struck power lines and crashed short of the runway in the Brownsboro area. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected to send an investigator by Friday to document the scene and examine the aircraft, which will then be recovered for further evaluation.
The family has been notified of the tragic loss. Ron and Barbara Timmermans leave behind a profound legacy in the aviation community, remembered for their skill, dedication, and passion for flying.
