Aircraft overview

The Just Aircraft Highlander is a two-seat, high-wing, tailwheel kit aircraft built by Just Aircraft of Walhalla, South Carolina. It entered the market in the mid 2000s as an Experimental Amateur-Built aircraft aimed at short-field, backcountry and recreational flying. The Highlander matters in the used-aircraft market because it combines light-sport weight targets with robust landing gear, folding wings and a simple tube-and-fabric structure. It should not be confused with the later Just Aircraft SuperSTOL, which uses a different high-lift wing and long-travel landing gear concept.

Performance & specifications

Performance depends heavily on engine choice, propeller, tires and builder finish, but typical Highlanders are fitted with engines in the 80 to 115 hp class. A common installation is the 100 hp Rotax 912 ULS, with other examples using Rotax, Jabiru or ULPower engines. Published figures for the model commonly place cruise speed around 90 knots, with a stall speed in the high 20 mph range when lightly loaded and properly configured. Range is typically cited at about 350 to 400 statute miles, depending on fuel capacity and power setting. Many aircraft are built around the 1,320 lb light-sport gross weight limit, with useful load commonly around 600 lb. Reported service ceiling is often listed near 14,000 feet, although practical high-altitude performance varies by engine and propeller.

Cabin & avionics

The Highlander has side-by-side seating for two, large doors and a straightforward utility cabin. Visibility is a strong point, helped by the high wing and low instrument panel. Cabin finish varies substantially because each aircraft is builder completed. Buyers will find everything from basic day-VFR panels with analog instruments to modern experimental glass panels. Typical avionics may include Dynon SkyView, Garmin G3X Touch, MGL equipment, compact comm radios, ADS-B Out transponders and portable navigation displays. There is no factory-standard Garmin Perspective or G1000 installation for this model.

Buying & value

Used Highlanders are evaluated as individual builds rather than standardized factory aircraft. Important checks include build documentation, airframe alignment, fabric condition, landing gear attachment points, tailwheel wear, control rigging, weight-and-balance records and engine installation quality. Engine logs, propeller choice and cooling performance deserve close review. Desirable equipment often includes tundra tires, reliable cabin heat, dual brakes, modern ADS-B compliance, a well-supported engine and a clean electrical system. In the used market, the Highlander typically sits above simpler ultralight-style experimentals and below newer, more specialized STOL aircraft. Its value is strongest when workmanship, documentation and empty weight are well managed.