FEDEX has transported a family of giant pandas from the US to China onboard the "FedEx Panda Express".
The pandas - 25-year-old Mei Xiang, 26-year-old Tian Tian, and their
three-year-old cub, Xiao Qi Ji - were flown from Washington Dulles
International to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport on a Boeing 777
freighter complete with a panda-themed livery.
The family were accompanied by animal care experts from the
Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute and
travelled in custom-built transport enclosures provided by FedEx,
according to London's Air Cargo News.
The pandas were the only cargo on the flight and had supplies of bamboo,
water, and their favourite treats, including sugar cane, apples, and
pears.
Before their trip, they spent time getting familiar with their enclosures to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.
Upon arrival in Chengdu, they were greeted on the tarmac by their new
keepers before moving to the Shenshuping facility in Wolong, where they
will quarantine for approximately 30 days.
FedEx also provided trucking and logistical support in Washington DC to
safely transport the pandas from the Smithsonian's National Zoo to the
airport.
FedEx donated the cost of transporting the pandas as part of its ongoing
corporate social responsibility and environmental conservation efforts.
Richard Smith, president and chief executive officer, airline and
international, FedEx, said: "I remember fondly when we brought Mei Xiang
and Tian Tian over decades ago, and we are proud to once again be
entrusted with transporting these beloved animals through our global
network." |
