Pandas overnighted to France by FedEx

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PARIS, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- FedEx says it absolutely positively delivered a pair of Chinese pandas to France Sunday on time and without any problems.

A chartered jet carried the panda pair from China to Paris where they will be on display for anxious crowds of Frenchmen for the first time in more than 10 years.

"It was an absolute privilege and honor to fly Huan Huan and Yuan Zi, and to be part of this significant moment to bring the pandas to their new home in France," FedEx pilot Paul Cassel said in a written statement. "Although every flight is unique, this flight has been particularly special -- carrying such rare animals made the journey very exciting for all of us."

Cassel actually has experience in flying rare animals, the company said. His past passengers have included penguins and white rhinos.

Radio France International said Huan Huan and Yuan Zi will begin their 10-year stay at the ZooParc de Beauval outside Paris in quarantine. They make their public debut Feb. 11.