We operate out of Virginia Highlands Airport (KVJI) in Abingdon, VA — zip code 24210. 

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We currently offer training for the following:

• Sport Pilot

• Sport - Certified Flight Instructor (CFI-S)

• Private Pilot

• Instrument Rating

• Commercial Pilot

Training is conducted under Part 61. We follow structured syllabi that meet or exceed FAA minimums and reflect modern best practices. 

The aircraft rental rate is $155/hour (wet), and instructor rates vary by instructor. On average, you should budget around $10,000 to $14,000 for the Private Pilot Certificate and $8,000 to $10,000 for the Sport Pilot Certificate, depending on individual pace and frequency. We offer block hour discounts to reduce costs. 

Not yet. However, we offer veteran support in the form of a 5% discount on aircraft rental, scholarship guidance, and mentorship. 

We use a proprietary syllabus based on the current FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS), reinforced by materials from FlightInsight and FAA handbooks. Each syllabus includes ground and flight components tied together with risk management throughout .

Yes. Ground school is taught in person at Highlands Aero and through our upcoming partnership with Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC). The course prepares students for the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Exam using a structured syllabus aligned with FAA standards. Both in-house and college-registered students follow the same lesson framework, supported by recommended FAA and third-party resources. 

Absolutely. Ground school is open to anyone interested in aviation. It’s a cost-effective way to explore flight training before committing to lessons in the aircraft. 

We recommend a student starter kit, available at Highlands Aero, which includes a headset, kneeboard, logbook, and the required FAA publications. If enrolled through VHCC, a list of required materials will be provided at registration 

Yes, after completing a checkout with one of our instructors. Renters must meet recent flight experience requirements under FAR 61.57 and have their pilot documents available (61.3). 

The current wet rate for the Pipistrel Alpha Trainer is $155/hour. 

Yes, however a minimum hour requirement may apply, e.g. overnight. 

You must have pilot and medical certification accessible per FAR 61.3. If you're missing your certificate, you can request Temporary Authority to Exercise Certificate Privilege through the Airman Online Services (https://amsrvs.registry.faa.gov/amsrvs/) and delivered immediately via email.

A 30-minute introductory flight designed for first-time flyers or those curious about aviation. You’ll fly with a certified instructor and get hands-on time in the cockpit. The cost is $149. 

Yes, gift certificates are available. Let us know if you'd like a printable version for presentation. 

Yes. We use a Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) setup for procedures training. It supports Private and Instrument students and is expanding in 2026. 

Aircraft are maintained by a certified Light Sport Repairman with Maintenance (LSRM) privileges. Preventive maintenance and high safety standards are part of our culture. 

Yes, all instructors are FAA certified and insured. Jon Clausen, the owner, is also a designated FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) Representative .