FedEx has transported two giant pandas from Chengdu, China, to Atlanta, Georgia, aboard a Boeing 777F operating as the “FedEx Panda Express,” in a highly specialised operation coordinated with Zoo Atlanta.
The shipment involved Ping Ping, a six-year-old male panda, and Fu Shuang, a five-year-old female. Both animals were transported as part of their relocation to their new home in the United States.
The operation highlights FedEx’s long-standing experience in moving giant pandas and other sensitive shipments that require dedicated handling, specialised equipment and close attention throughout the logistics chain.
For more than two decades, FedEx has worked with the Chinese government and zoos around the world to support the safe and specialised transportation of giant pandas. As part of its corporate social responsibility and conservation initiatives, the company is covering the full transportation cost of this latest mission.
Ping Ping and Fu Shuang travelled non-stop from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport aboard a FedEx aircraft. During the flight, the pandas remained in custom-built travel crates and were supervised by animal specialists from Zoo Atlanta.
The two pandas were the only cargo carried on the flight. The aircraft also transported fresh bamboo, water and a selection of the animals’ favourite treats to meet their needs throughout the journey.
Richard W. Smith, chief operating officer, International, and chief executive officer, Airline, FedEx, said the company has been transporting giant pandas for more than two decades and highlighted the significance of each mission involving the “FedEx Panda Express.”
“Safely delivering Ping Ping and Fu Shuang to their new home in Atlanta underscores our long-standing commitment to global conservation and our network’s ability to securely transport high-priority, precious cargo,” Smith said.
Before departure, the pandas spent time acclimatising to their travel enclosures. This preparation was intended to help provide a safe and comfortable transit for the animals.
After arriving at Zoo Atlanta, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang entered quarantine. They will remain there before making their public debut later this year.
FedEx’s role did not end at the airport. The company also provided trucking and logistics support in Atlanta, ensuring the pandas could be transferred safely from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Zoo Atlanta.
With this latest operation, FedEx has transported a total of 23 giant pandas to and from China since 2000.
