I know why the VC-10 was there. I was on the crew . .. . . .
It was indeed a compassionate case from Germany. As mentioned, it's one of the good things the Forces do. Depending on how severe the emergency, aircraft will be re tasked or even diverted on route to pick up people and drop them off at the most convenient and practical airport.
As for the turnaround, we carried enough fuel out of Hannover to be able to hop back to Brize Norton afterwards, so the GE had a quick look around outside and we we're off. Being 6000` long, we needed to make sure we we're light going in so we could stop in time. Herc was scheduled to do the task, but was unable in the end for a variety of reasons.
Tried to be as quiet as possible when we left, but she's a noisy girl and it's difficult. We have procedures that help to minimise the noise and keep as much as possible on the airfield, but she was light and went up damn quickly !!
Did anyone get any pics ??!??!?!