FedEx donates Boeing 727 to CBU Aviation Science program

RIVERSIDE, Calif., Jan. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- FedEx Express has donated a Boeing 727-200F to California Baptist University for use by its new aviation science program. The cargo jet made its final taxi today after landing at the Riverside Municipal Airport. The aircraft will be on permanent display at the airport and will provide a working laboratory for aviation science students.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130110/DC40822)

"Although this aircraft has reached the end of its useful life in commercial service after 33 years, it is beginning a new life here at the Riverside Municipal Airport as a working lab for CBU aviation science students," said Dr. Daniel Prather, founding chair of the CBU aviation science department. "CBU could not be more pleased with this generous donation from FedEx and appreciates the role of Women in Aviation International in making it possible."

Before its final flight, the aircraft with registration number N266FE provided FedEx with 20 years of service, transporting packages to destinations throughout the United States. The plane is the 60^th donation of a Boeing 727 aircraft to various organizations for educational purposes. Prior to its service with FedEx, the aircraft served as a passenger plane for Air Canada.

"FedEx is always proud to give back to the communities where we live and work, and this donation of a 727 from our fleet is a good example of the company's community spirit," said David Sutton, managing director of Aircraft Acquisition and Sales for FedEx. "This marks the 60th aircraft we have donated coast to coast, reflecting the community pride shared by all FedEx employees in support of educational endeavors." 

Prather expressed his gratitude to FedEx, and to Women in Aviation International, who opened up this opportunity to its members. "Starting a program with a B727 already on hand is more than I could have ever expected," Prather said. "Thank you, FedEx, for making this a reality!"

About FedEx Express
FedEx Express is the world's largest express transportation company, providing fast and reliable delivery to more than 220 countries and territories. FedEx Express uses a global air-and-ground network to speed delivery of time-sensitive shipments, by a definite time and date with a money-back guarantee.

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 revenues of $43 billion, the company offers integrated business applications through operating companies competing collectively and managed collaboratively, under the respected FedEx brand.  Consistently ranked among the world's most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 300,000 team members to remain "absolutely, positively" focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers and communities. For more information, visit news.fedex.com.

About California Baptist University
Founded in 1950, California Baptist University is affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention and is fully accredited through the Western Association of Colleges and Schools. More than 6,000 students attend CBU from 37 states and 30 countries, enrolled in 145 undergraduate majors and 36 graduate programs. 

SOURCE California Baptist University