I tend to be a mirror to my people. I have to reflect to them. I have to give them as much as freedom in the areas I know they will do very well. I have to guide them, to control them, and to complement them when I believe they are less strong or focused.
When you choose a flight, is aircraft type part of your consideration?
Yes. When I can fly the A380, I prefer to fly A380. By the way, I know passengers love the A380.
A recent survey confirmed that 65 percent of passengers would make an extra effort to fly on the A380. I have met many people telling me "your A380 is fantastic".
What are your interests and hobbies?
I like to watch soccer games. I remember during the FIFA World Cup last year, I made a trip in China. I had asked Eric Chen (Airbus China president) to make sure I would have the games on TV live. It was 4 am when I was watching that.
What's your favorite team?
Marseille from France. When I was young this team was performing very well. Now they are not that consistent. I also like Barcelona very much.
Zhang Han contributed to this story.