Raptor One touched down five minutes ahead of schedule.
Its wheels touched the runway. The aircraft continued along the strip before slowing near the western taxi lane.
Hans watched from the edge of the apron.
The fighter turned toward the nearest hangar, guided by the Ground Guidance Crew waiting along the marked lane. Its engines remained loud even after it stopped.
Several crew members moved around the aircraft.
One checked the landing gear. Another inspected the exterior while the rest prepared the service equipment.
The cockpit opened. The pilot climbed down the ladder and stepped onto the apron.
He removed his helmet and looked at Hans.
"Surprise, Commander."
"You're earlier than I expected."
"Five minutes early, and I still completed the whole route."
The pilot handed the mission recorder to the approaching Flight Operations officer.
Hans looked toward the fighter.
"How was the flight?"
"Full of ups and downs." The pilot yawned. "Boring in places."
