SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- U.S. Air Force Capt. Taylor “FEMA” Hiester performs the first certification flight of the 2026 F-16 Viper Demonstration Team season here, Jan. 22, 2026. This certification flight precedes the Heritage Flight Training Course, where the F-16 Viper Demonstration Team perform certification flights to be reviewed by Gen. Adrian Spain, Air Combat Command commander. The Viper Demonstration Team participates in heritage flights, featuring rare formations with modern and legacy aircraft, during air shows across the world to demonstrate the evolution of airpower and honor the dedication of U.S. Airmen across generations. The F-16, a multi-role fighter aircraft capable of both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat, demonstrates its versatility through dynamic aerial demonstrations across the U.S. and abroad. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Erin Dunkleberger)