At the beginning of 2020, an unexpected coronavirus epidemic broke out in China, causing the country to declare a state of emergency. Facing this ongoing global dilemma, founder and captain of Shanghai-based New Sky Helicopter Cao Xintian decided to charter his own helicopter to transport valuable medical supplies to Hubei and other regions where the epidemic was most severe.

“We're always told that everyone has shared responsibility for the fate of their country. Now, it's my time to contribute to my nation.” Cao says. Shortly after making this decision, his squad was ready to transport medical supplies to the ground zero locations, save lives and stop the disease. This team of selfless volunteers labelled themselves the ‘Helicopter Epidemic Prevention Volunteers’.

The main operation base of New Sky Helicopter is located in Shanghai, about 500 miles from Wuhan, the provincial capital city of Hubei. It takes 13 hours to travel by ground transportation, but only three and a half hours by helicopter. “We removed some passenger seats to carry more medical supplies,” continues Cao. “Compared with commercial airliners, we carry less, but we have the most critical supplies on board.” The reagent used to detect COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, is one of these supplies. “The Bell 429's cabin allows us to carry what we need. We are also able to deliver supplies directly to hospitals and patients without having to go through the airport first.”

“I can't say it's an easy decision to lead volunteers into the centre of the epidemic. But we made it, and I am proud of all of us.” As of mid-February, New Sky Helicopter had made 10 flights and transported more than three tons (220 cwt.) of medical supplies to impacted areas in Hubei and Zhejiang.

To support New Sky's important efforts, Shanghai Pudong International airport set up special approach and landing zones for helicopters. The China Civil Aviation Administration, air force, epidemic prevention organisations, activists, entrepreneurs and more have also aided the Helicopter Epidemic Prevention Volunteers during their remarkable act of kindness.

“Everyone from our own volunteers to those offering their resources to make this effort possible are the real heroes in this story,” Cao concludes. “They are bringing hope to the world.”