FedEx Express announced that it will be transporting two giant pandas from China to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI).

The operation will happen by the end of 2024, utilising FedEx Express Boeing 777-Freighter, known as the "FedEx Panda Express."

Qing Bao, a two-year-old female, will arrive from the Dujiangyan Base in Sichuan, and Bao Li, a two-year-old male, will arrive from the Shenshuping Base in Wolong.

FedEx cited its long history of working with the Chinese government and zoos around the world to safely ship giant pandas to and from China.

As part of its ongoing support of environmental conservation efforts, FedEx said it is proud to donate the cost of transporting the pandas.

"We look forward to once again calling the FedEx Panda Express into service and using our logistical expertise to safely move Qing Bao and Bao Li to Washington, D.C.," said Richard W. Smith, president and chief executive officer, Airline and International, FedEx.

"It's a privilege to take part in this next phase of the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute’s giant panda program and provide the safest and most comfortable transportation for these beloved animals," he added.

FedEx has previously had the privilege of transporting 15 different pandas on 10 separate flights over the past two decades.

Most recently, the company transported Bao Li’s grandparents, Mei Xiang, Tian Tian and their cub Xiao Qi Ji, from Washington, D.C., to China in November 2023.

FedEx also transported Bao Li's mother, Bao Bao, to China in 2017.