My name is Jon Clausen, and aviation has been both a passion and profession of mine since 2006. Today, I serve as a First Officer with PSA Airlines, operating flights under the American Eagle brand, while continuing to remain active in general aviation as the owner and President of Highlands Aero Flight Center.

I earned my Private Pilot Certificate in 2008, followed by my Instrument Rating and Commercial Pilot Certificates for both single- and multi-engine airplanes in 2010. In 2023, I became a Certified Flight Instructor and earned both Advanced and Instrument Ground Instructor ratings. These experiences allow me to bring a combination of professional flying, structured instruction, and real-world operational experience to my students.

My aviation background also includes aircraft maintenance. I served as a UH-60 Black Hawk mechanic in the Georgia Army National Guard and later became a certificated Light Sport Repairman with a Maintenance rating (LSRM). That technical background gives me a strong understanding of aircraft systems, maintenance, and the importance of disciplined safety practices.

In 2025, I was appointed as an FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) Representative, where I support the FAA's mission of improving general aviation safety through education, outreach, and risk management.

Outside of civilian aviation, I serve as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserve and hold a Master's Degree in Cybersecurity. I am also an Eagle Scout, a husband, and a father of three.

At Highlands Aero, my goal is to provide students with professional, structured flight training that develops more than the skills required to pass a checkride. I want our pilots to develop sound judgment, strong aeronautical decision-making, and the habits necessary to operate safely and confidently throughout their aviation careers.

Griffin Jones serves as the Chief Flight Instructor at Highlands Aero Flight Center. He is dedicated to providing safe, professional, and structured flight training while helping students develop confidence, precision, and sound aeronautical decision-making.

As Chief Flight Instructor, Griffin helps oversee the quality and consistency of flight instruction at Highlands Aero while working directly with students throughout their training. Whether introducing someone to aviation for the first time or helping a pilot progress toward an advanced certificate or rating, he emphasizes strong fundamentals, good judgment, and the development of safe, capable pilots.

I have been in the aviation field for a few years now. I am a Flight Instructor (CFI) and also hold my CFII and MEI (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!