FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. and the world's largest express transportation company, has announced the safe arrival of two giant pandas, Tian Tian (aka Sweetie), an eight year-old female panda, and Yang Guang (aka Sunshine), an eight year-old male panda from Chengdu’s Bifengxia Panda Base to Edinburgh International Airport in Scotland.

Working in conjunction with the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) and the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) in China, the specially-chartered Boeing 777F flight known as the “FedEx Panda Express” landed in Scotland on Dec. 4 at approximately 1 p.m. local time. The arrival of the pandas marks the first time in more than 17 years that giant pandas will reside in the UK.

The non-stop flight was chartered especially for the VIPs—Very Important Pandas—and the pair traveled in custom-built enclosures, which were provided by FedEx Express. In-flight meals of bamboo, apples, carrots, a special panda cake, and mineral water were served to the pandas, who spent the journey eating snacks and snoozing. Tian Tian and Yang Guang were accompanied by a veterinarian and two animal handlers from Edinburgh Zoo and the Bifengxia Panda Base to look after their needs throughout the journey.

FedEx Express donated its logistical services for the transportation, providing an expert team to ensure the rare animals’ safety. During the flight, the pandas were in the safe hands of seasoned management pilots, all of whom have extensive experience in transporting some of the world’s most precious cargo, ranging from white rhinos to penguins.

“We are delighted to announce that the FedEx Panda Express has safely touched down at Edinburgh International Airport,” said Gerald P. Leary, president, FedEx Express Europe, Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa. “It was an absolute privilege and honor to fly Tian Tian and Yang Guang, and to be part of this significant moment to bring the pandas to their new home in the UK. Although every flight is unique, this flight has been particularly special—carrying such rare animals made the journey very exciting for our team.”

The pandas continued their journey in a specially-decaled FedEx Express vehicle to deliver them to their new home at Edinburgh Zoo. The Lothian and Borders Police Force were also on hand to ensure a smooth ride. Upon arrival, the pandas will reside together in Edinburgh Zoo’s specially-built giant panda enclosure.

The final leg of the pandas’ journey can be followed at http://blog.fedex.com/panda-express. Additional content, including pictures and fact sheets, is also available at http://news.fedex.com/PandaExpress2011.