About Us

About Highlands Aero

Highlands Aero is a flight training and aerial services provider based at Virginia Highlands Airport (KVJI) in Abingdon, Virginia. Founded by Jon Clausen, a veteran instructor and FAA Safety Team Representative, our mission is to offer accessible, high-quality aviation education and services in a professional, safety-first environment.

We specialize in:

Sport, Private, Instrument, and Commercial Pilot Training
Modern aircraft rental for local pilots and students
Discovery flights for those exploring aviation
FAA-compliant drone operations, including aerial imaging, mapping, and UAS consulting

Our foundation is built on:

A structured syllabus-driven training model aligned with FAA ACS standards
A maintenance-forward mindset supported by in-house expertise
Transparent pricing, personalized instruction, and reliable scheduling
A culture that welcomes veterans, career-changers, and recreational pilots alike

As we grow, we continue to expand our capabilities, bringing the same professionalism to our unmanned aircraft operations as we do to manned flight. Whether you’re stepping into a cockpit or deploying a drone, Highlands Aero is committed to safe, skilled, and mission-ready aviation.

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Our Commitment to Safety and Excellence

At Highlands Aero, aviation safety is not just a requirement—it's a core value that shapes every aspect of our training and operations. That commitment is led by Jon Clausen, Owner and Chief Flight Instructor, who proudly serves as an FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) Representative.

As an FAASTeam Rep, Jon collaborates with the FAA to promote safety awareness, host educational outreach events, and support a nationwide culture of safety in general aviation. This distinction reinforces our mission to deliver flight training that goes beyond proficiency, emphasizing judgment, preparedness, and continuous improvement.

Vision Statement

To provide exceptional, safe, and modern aviation training while fostering a welcoming and professional environment for aspiring and experienced pilots.

Mission Statement

To be the leading aviation training center in the Appalachian Highlands, known for excellence in safety, service, and instructional quality.

Core Values

Safety First: Maintenance and training practices exceed FAA standards.
Quality Training: FAA-compliant syllabi, structured checklists, experienced instructors.
Customer-focused: Transparent pricing, flexible scheduling, and personal guidance.
Innovation: Modern avionics, MSFS simulation, and digital student onboarding.
Integrity: Honest communication and ethical business practices.

Jon Clausen, CFI, AGI, IGI, MS

My name is Jon Clausen, and aviation has been both my passion and profession since 2006. I earned my Private Pilot certificate in 2008 and have spent nearly two decades mastering the skies and mentoring new pilots.

I served as a UH-60 Black Hawk mechanic in the Georgia Army National Guard from 2005 to 2011, where I developed a deep technical foundation in aircraft systems and a commitment to precision and safety. In 2010, I earned my Commercial Pilot certificate for both single and multi-engine aircraft, along with an instrument rating. Most recently, in 2023, I became a Certified Flight Instructor and earned both Advanced and Instrument Ground Instructor ratings, credentials that allow me to guide others toward their aviation goals with professionalism and structure.

I'm also a certified Light Sport Repairman with a Maintenance rating (LSRM), combining hands-on mechanical experience with my instructional expertise to ensure safe, reliable training aircraft. In 2025, I was appointed a FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) Representative, reflecting my ongoing commitment to promoting safety and excellence in general aviation.

Outside the cockpit, I serve as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserve and hold a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity. I’m also proud to be an Eagle Scout, an early milestone that set the tone for a life of service, leadership, and attention to detail. I’m a husband and father of three, and when I’m not flying or teaching, I value spending time with my family.

Whether you’re just beginning your aviation journey or working toward advanced ratings, I’m here to help you navigate your path to the skies.

Griffin Jones, CFI, CFII

Griffin Jones is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) with a passion for aviation education and safety. With a solid foundation in both practical flight experience and instructional techniques, Griffin is dedicated to helping students build confidence, precision, and sound decision-making in the cockpit. Whether guiding first-time flyers or advanced trainees, he focuses on creating a supportive, goal-driven learning environment.

Jairus Moyers , CFI, CFII, MEI

I have been in the aviation field for a few years now. I am a Certified Flight Instructor and also hold my CFII and MEI (Certified Flight Instructor Instrument and Multi Engine Instructor). I am currently enrolled in Liberty University’s Aviation & Sciences program and am working on my bachelor's degree. My goal here is to train students efficiently and cost-effectively. I am a CFI who has a passion for teaching students. I did not always want to be an instructor, but after my first few flights, I grew to love it. I have a very hands-on teaching style that allows for a direct approach specific to the student. I truly enjoy flying and teaching others who share that passion. I look forward to working with you!

Dylan Davis, CFI, MS

Owner and Chief Instructor of Icarus TB&R

Both Highlands Aero Flight Center and Icarus Time Building and Rentals are veteran-owned and operated businesses. We thank you for supporting your local veterans in doing what they love!

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