FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp, is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its inaugural scheduled transatlantic service.
On 15 June 1985, a fleet of seven Federal Express Boeing 727s began operating links between New York, London and Brussels, in what FedEx said was a “key moment in redefining global commerce and connectivity”.
From initially serving just 25 US cities in 1973, FedEx now connects more than 220 countries and territories.
Wouter Roels, regional president of FedEx Europe, declared: “In 1985, the concept of rapid, reliable transatlantic shipping was just coming to the fore, as groundbreaking as the first commercial internet connections that would soon follow.
“Our commitment to connecting Europe and North America then, and now, has played a crucial role in the evolution of modern supply chains.
“Just as personal computers began to revolutionise offices, the FedEx effect established the physical infrastructure to allow the global trade we all rely on today to flourish.”
Today, FedEx operates an integrated air and road network in Europe, featuring two air hubs, and 27 road hubs connecting 45 countries.
Its transatlantic services connect 90% of Europe to most US business centres, offering customers choice in delivery times for global shipments.
European e-commerce traders particularly benefit from day-definite international shipping services and the offer of a dedicated regional freight service across 22 countries for less urgent packages.
“The transatlantic trade relationship continues to be a cornerstone of the global economy,” Roels noted.
“While the dynamics have certainly evolved – from the rise of e-commerce to the focus on sustainable logistics – our mission remains the same: to provide certainty in an uncertain world.”
FedEx’s freighter services to Europe were reinforced recently when it was confirmed it had added new freighter frequencies between Liège in Belgium and Memphis in the US.
The additions, which began on 28 April, increased the number of flights operated each week from five to eight.
FedEx utilises Boeing 777 freighter aircraft on the route.
