FedEx Panda Express Completes First-Ever Roundtrip Deliveries, Continuing Support of Giant Panda Conservation

Rhea-AI Summary

FedEx (NYSE: FDX) successfully completed its first-ever roundtrip panda deliveries this week, transporting six giant pandas between the United States and China. The FedEx Panda Express, a Boeing 777-F, departed Atlanta on October 12, delivering four pandas to Chengdu, and returned to Washington, D.C. on October 15 with two pandas.

The pandas transported to China included Lun Lun, Yang Yang, and their twin offspring Ya Lun and Xi Lun from Zoo Atlanta. The return flight brought two-year-old pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. FedEx donated the transportation cost as part of its corporate social responsibility and environmental conservation efforts.

This mission marks FedEx's ongoing commitment to giant panda conservation, having transported 22 pandas to and from China since 2000. The company's COO, Richard W. Smith, emphasized the significance of this first roundtrip move and FedEx's pride in delivering this precious cargo.

Positive

• FedEx successfully completed its first-ever roundtrip panda delivery, showcasing logistical capabilities
• The company has transported 22 pandas since 2000, demonstrating long-term commitment to conservation efforts
• FedEx donated the transportation cost, enhancing its corporate social responsibility profile

Negative

• None.

Insights

Logistics Expert

This panda transportation operation showcases FedEx's unique capabilities in specialized logistics. While not directly impacting financials, it demonstrates the company's ability to handle complex, high-profile shipments, potentially enhancing brand reputation. The use of a dedicated Boeing 777-F aircraft for this mission highlights FedEx's commitment to animal welfare and conservation efforts.

From an operational standpoint, the roundtrip nature of this transport is noteworthy, as it maximizes efficiency by utilizing the same aircraft for both outbound and inbound shipments. This could be seen as a model for future specialized logistics operations, potentially opening doors to similar high-value, sensitive cargo opportunities.

However, investors should note that while these operations generate positive publicity, their direct financial impact is likely minimal. The true value lies in the potential for future contracts and the reinforcement of FedEx's image as a reliable partner for complex international shipments.

Corporate Social Responsibility Analyst

FedEx's involvement in panda conservation efforts represents a significant corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. By donating transportation costs, FedEx demonstrates a commitment to environmental conservation and global cooperation, which can positively impact the company's ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) profile.

This type of high-visibility CSR activity can enhance brand perception among consumers and stakeholders, potentially leading to increased customer loyalty and improved relationships with regulatory bodies. The long-term partnership with zoos and the Chinese government in panda conservation (spanning over two decades) showcases FedEx's sustained commitment to global causes.

While the immediate financial impact may be neutral or slightly negative due to donated services, the long-term benefits to brand value and stakeholder relationships could outweigh these costs. Investors should consider this as part of FedEx's broader strategy to maintain a positive corporate image and strengthen its position in the global market.

This week, FedEx transported pandas from Atlanta, GA. to China; from China to Washington, D.C.

MEMPHIS, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- This week, FedEx Corporation (NYSE: FDX) transported six giant pandas between the United States and China on two separate flights. The roundtrip journey departed Atlanta, GA., arrived in Chengdu, China, where it delivered four pandas and then returned to Washington, D.C. with two pandas. The pandas traveled aboard a FedEx Boeing 777-F, known as the “FedEx Panda Express.”

FedEx Panda Express (Photo: Business Wire)

Departing Atlanta, FedEx transported four giant pandas from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU). The FedEx Panda Express departed on October 12 and arrived in Chengdu on October 13. The four pandas aboard included 27-year-old female Lun Lun and 27-year-old male Yang Yang, who have resided at Zoo Atlanta since 1999, and their twin female offspring, Ya Lun and Xi Lun, born at Zoo Atlanta in 2016. They have now safely arrived at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

On the return flight, FedEx transported two pandas from CTU to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) in Washington, D.C. The FedEx Panda Express departed Chengdu on October 14 and arrived at Dulles International Airport on October 15. From there, the pandas were taken by truck to NZCBI. The two pandas aboard included two-year-old male Bao Li and two-year-old female Qing Bao. Bao Li is the grandcub of Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, whom FedEx transported to China, along with their cub, Xiao Qi Ji, in November 2023.

For more than two decades, FedEx has worked with the Chinese government and zoos around the world to safely transport giant pandas to and from China. The company is committed to keeping supply chains moving and connecting communities around the world by enabling global trade. FedEx donated the transportation cost as part of its ongoing corporate social responsibility and environmental conservation efforts.

“Each giant panda move is special, and we’re always honored when selected as the trusted transportation provider,” said Richard W. Smith, chief operating officer, International, and chief executive officer, Airline, FedEx. “We have had the privilege of transporting pandas since 2000, but this was our first roundtrip move, delivering the bears to and from China within the same aircraft journey. The safe delivery of Lun Lun, Yang Yang, Ya Lun, and Xi Lun to China and Bao Li and Qing Bao to the U.S. demonstrates the company’s commitment to leveraging our extensive global network to connect communities. FedEx is once again proud to deliver this precious cargo.”

Animal care experts from Zoo Atlanta and NZCBI were on board the flights. The animals were the only cargo on both flights, aside from supplies including bamboo, water, and the pandas’ favorite treats.

Before their trips, the animals spent time getting familiar with their enclosures to ensure they were safe and comfortable during their journeys. Upon arrival in Chengdu, Lun Lun, Yang Yang, Ya Lun, and Xi Lun were met by their new keepers on the tarmac before moving to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Once they arrived in Washington, D.C., Bao Li and Qing Bao began their quarantine ahead of their public debut in January 2025.

Including these moves, FedEx has had the privilege of transporting 22 pandas to and from China. Previous FedEx Panda Express flights include:

• 2023: from USA to China
• 2023: from USA to China
• 2019: from USA to China
• 2017: from USA to China
• 2013: from China to Canada
• 2012: from China to France
• 2011: from China to Scotland
• 2010: from USA to China
• 2003: from China to USA
• 2000: from China to USA

About FedEx Corp.

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. With annual revenue of $88 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions utilizing its flexible, efficient, and intelligent global network. Consistently ranked among the world's most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 500,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards, and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. To learn more, please visit fedex.com/about.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241015138308/en/

FedEx Media Relations

901-434-8100

mediarelations@fedex.com

Source: FedEx Corp.

FAQ

When did FedEx (FDX) complete its first-ever roundtrip panda delivery?

FedEx completed its first-ever roundtrip panda delivery this week, with flights departing on October 12 and returning on October 15, 2024.

How many giant pandas did FedEx (FDX) transport in this roundtrip delivery?

FedEx transported a total of six giant pandas in this roundtrip delivery - four from Atlanta to China and two from China to Washington, D.C.

What type of aircraft did FedEx (FDX) use for the panda transport?

FedEx used a Boeing 777-F aircraft, known as the 'FedEx Panda Express,' for the panda transport.

How many pandas has FedEx (FDX) transported since 2000?

Including these recent moves, FedEx has transported a total of 22 pandas to and from China since 2000.