Chinese pilot ferries stranded passengers home

During the three days of flights to the Philippines from Wednesday to Friday, Zhong said he was already used to these routes since it's part of his daily routine at work.

"It's actually my first time to fly with a mask, but I was not afraid to carry out this task at all. I'm quite optimistic," he laughed.

Zhong said his flight to Jakarta was canceled before he was informed by the airlines on Feb 4 that he was going to pick up stranded travelers in the Philippines.

His family gave him their full support for the special task, including his wife.

"She told me I should stand up at this critical time as a Party member for dozens of years. She can take good care of the family. I have her support," said Zhong.

Zhong's parents also share the same view, and told him to protect himself and accomplish his work. Zhong's father works at the epidemic prevention station in Changting, a county in Longyan city in eastern Fujian province, fighting at the front line. So he understands his son's situation.

For the flight to Manila, Zhong said the most important thing is to communicate with the crew and ensure prevention and protection work. "I understand the anxiety of the stranded travelers there, because they have no idea when they are able to go home since all flights were canceled suddenly," he said.