The 71st Fighter Training Squadron (FTS) is a component of the United States Air Force (USAF) located at Columbia Metropolitan Airport, South Carolina, within the Air Education and Training Command (AETC). Its primary role is to provide advanced pilot training for F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft. Established in 1952 as part of the USAF’s pilot training program, the 71st FTS has trained numerous air force pilots over the years, contributing significantly to the readiness and capabilities of the USAF. The squadron operates under the 57th Fighter Training Wing (FTW), and its mission is to produce superior fighter aviators while ensuring the highest level of flight safety and operational readiness.