UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington , D.C.   20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

(X)

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES

 

EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended SEPT. 30, 2004MARCH 31, 2005

 

 

( )

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES

 

EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from __________ to __________

 

Commission file number 1-8339

logo

 

logo

 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Virginia

52-1188014

(State or other jurisdiction of

(IRS Employer Identification No.)

incorporation or organization)

 

 

 

 

 

Three Commercial Place

 

Norfolk , Virginia

23510-2191

(Address of principal executive offices)

Zip Code

 

 

Registrant's telephone number, including area code

(757) 629-2680

 

 

No Change

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year,

Ifif changed since last report.)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13

or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter

period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing

requirements for the past 90 days.  

(X) Yes   

( ) No

 

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of The Exchange Act).

 

(X) Yes   

( ) No

 

 

 

The number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of Common Stock, as of the last

practicable date:

 

 

Class
Outstanding as of Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005

Common Stock (par value $1.00)

396,006,701404,274,324 (excluding 20,938,12520,907,125 shares

 

held by registrant's consolidated subsidiaries)


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

 

Part I.

Financial information:

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Financial statements:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Income

3

 

 

Three and Nine Months Ended Sept. 30,March 31, 2005 and 2004 and 2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

4

 

 

Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 and Dec. 31, 20032004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

5

 

 

NineThree Months Ended Sept. 30,March 31, 2005 and 2004 and 2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

1614

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.

Management's Discussion and Analysis of

1715

 

 

Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

 

 

 

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures

2422

 

 

About Market Risks

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

2422

 

 

 

 

Part II.

Other Information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.2

Changes inUnregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

2422

 

 

 

 

 

Item 6.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

2523

 

 

 

 

Signatures

 

2724

 

 

 

 

Exhibit Index

 

2824


PART I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.   Financial Statements.

 

 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Income

($ in millions except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

 

                                                                                                                   

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

March 31,

2004

2003

2004

2003

2005

2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

($ in millions except per share amounts)

Railway operating revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Railway operating revenues

 

 

 

 

Coal

$

447 

$

372 

$

1,269 

$

1,115 

$

467 

$

398 

General merchandise

 

1,006 

 

911 

 

2,998 

 

2,773 

 

1,086 

 

967 

Intermodal

 

404 

 

315 

 

1,096 

 

904 

 

408 

 

328 

Total railway operating revenues

 

1,857 

 

1,598 

 

5,363 

 

4,792 

 

1,961 

 

1,693 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Railway operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Railway operating expenses

 

 

 

 

Compensation and benefits

 

570 

 

531 

 

1,680 

 

1,592 

 

604 

 

545 

Materials, services and rents

 

411 

 

346 

 

1,165 

 

1,083 

 

436 

 

365 

Conrail rents and services (Note 2)

 

79 

 

105 

 

282 

 

314 

 

35 

 

102 

Depreciation (Note 2)

 

150 

 

128 

 

409 

 

384 

 

193 

 

129 

Diesel fuel

 

98 

 

86 

 

311 

 

283 

 

150 

 

107 

Casualties and other claims

 

31 

 

44 

 

109 

 

142 

Casualties and other claims (Note 8)

 

78 

 

40 

Other

 

49 

 

47 

 

167 

 

154 

 

62 

 

59 

Total railway operating expenses

 

1,388 

 

1,287 

 

4,123 

 

3,952 

 

1,558 

 

1,347 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from railway operations

 

469 

 

311 

 

1,240 

 

840 

 

403 

 

346 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income - net (Note 2)

 

40 

 

12 

 

50 

 

57 

Other income - net

 

 

10 

Interest expense on debt

 

(121)

 

(123)

 

(363)

 

(373)

 

(128)

 

(121)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations before

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

income taxes and accounting changes

 

388 

 

200 

 

927 

 

524 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

277 

 

235 

Provision for income taxes

 

100 

 

63 

 

268 

 

165 

 

83 

 

77 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations before

accounting changes

 

288 

 

137 

 

659 

 

359 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discontinued operations - taxes on sale of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

motor carrier (Note 7)

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

 

10 

Cumulative effect of changes in accounting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

principles, net of taxes (Note 8)

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

 

114 

Net income

$

288 

$

137 

$

659 

$

483 

$

194 

$

158 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per share amounts (Note 9):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations before

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

accounting changes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

$

0.73 

$

0.35 

$

1.68 

$

0.92 

Diluted

$

0.72 

$

0.35 

$

1.66 

$

0.92 

Per share amounts (Note 6):

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

$

0.73 

$

0.35 

$

1.68 

$

1.24 

$

0.48 

$

0.40 

Diluted

$

0.72 

$

0.35 

$

1.66 

$

1.24 

$

0.47 

$

0.40 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dividends per share

$

0.10 

$

0.08 

$

0.26 

$

0.22 

Dividends

$

0.11 

$

0.08 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 


NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Balance Sheets

($ in millions)

(Unaudited)

 

 

March 31,

Dec. 31,

 

Sept. 30,

Dec. 31,

2005

2004

 

2004

2003

($ in millions)

Assets

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents

$

475 

$

284 

 

$

864 

$

467 

Short-term investments

Short-term investments

 

55 

 

 

 

255 

 

202 

Accounts receivable, net (Note 3)

 

806 

 

695 

 

Accounts receivable, net (Note 8)

 

890 

 

767 

Materials and supplies

Materials and supplies

 

102 

 

92 

 

 

114 

 

104 

Deferred income taxes

Deferred income taxes

 

191 

 

189 

 

 

216 

 

187 

Other current assets

Other current assets

 

177 

 

163 

 

 

256 

 

240 

Total current assets

Total current assets

 

1,806 

 

1,425 

 

 

2,595 

 

1,967 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment in Conrail (Note 2)

 

793 

 

6,259 

 

Properties less accumulated depreciation (Note 2)

 

20,368 

 

11,779 

 

Other assets

 

1,462 

 

1,133 

 

Investments (Note 2)

 

1,525 

 

1,499 

Properties less accumulated depreciation

 

20,474 

 

20,526 

Other assets (Note 8)

 

893 

 

758 

Total assets

Total assets

$

24,429 

$

20,596 

 

$

25,487 

$

24,750 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

$

1,004 

$

948 

 

Accounts payable (Note 8)

$

1,098 

$

1,090 

Income and other taxes

Income and other taxes

 

245 

 

199 

 

 

227 

 

210 

Due to Conrail

 

68 

 

81 

 

Other current liabilities

Other current liabilities

 

276 

 

213 

 

 

295 

 

239 

Current maturities of long-term debt

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

529 

 

360 

 

 

557 

 

662 

Total current liabilities

Total current liabilities

 

2,122 

 

1,801 

 

 

2,177 

 

2,201 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt (Notes 2 and 6)

 

7,019 

 

6,800 

 

Other liabilities

 

1,116 

 

1,080 

 

Due to Conrail (Note 2)

 

- -- 

 

716 

 

Deferred income taxes (Note 2)

 

6,484 

 

3,223 

 

Long-term debt (Note 5)

 

7,125 

 

6,863 

Other liabilities (Note 8)

 

1,313 

 

1,146 

Deferred income taxes

 

6,618 

 

6,550 

Total liabilities

Total liabilities

 

16,741 

 

13,620 

 

 

   17,233

 

16,760 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders' equity:

Stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock $1.00 per share par value, 1,350,000,000

Common stock $1.00 per share par value, 1,350,000,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

shares authorized; issued 416,944,826 and

 

 

 

 

 

412,168,988 shares, respectively

 

417 

 

412 

 

shares authorized; issued 425,181,449 and

 

 

 

 

421,346,107 shares, respectively

 

425 

 

421 

Additional paid-in capital

Additional paid-in capital

 

620 

 

521 

 

 

833 

 

728 

Unearned restricted stock (Note 1)

Unearned restricted stock (Note 1)

 

(9)

 

(5)

 

 

(25)

 

(8)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 10)

 

11 

 

(44)

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss (Note 7)

 

(2)

 

(24)

Retained income

Retained income

 

6,669 

 

6,112 

 

 

7,043 

 

6,893 

Less treasury stock at cost, 20,938,125 and 21,016,125

shares, respectively

 

(20)

 

(20)

 

Less treasury stock at cost, 20,907,125 shares

 

(20)

 

(20)

Total stockholders' equity

Total stockholders' equity

 

7,688 

 

6,976 

 

 

8,254 

 

7,990 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

24,429 

$

20,596 

 

$

25,487 

$

24,750 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 


 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

($ in millions)

(Unaudited)

 

 

Nine Months Ended

 

Sept. 30,

 

2004

2003

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

   Net income

$

 659 

$

 483 

   Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

         Net cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles

 

- -- 

 

(114)

         Depreciation

 

 417 

 

 395 

         Deferred income taxes

 

112 

 

116 

         Equity in earnings of Conrail

 

(45)

 

(41)

         Gain on Conrail corporate reorganization

 

(53)

 

- -- 

         Gains and losses on properties and investments

 

(15)

 

(16)

         Income from discontinued operations

 

- -- 

 

(10)

         Changes in assets and liabilities affecting operations:

 

 

 

 

            Accounts receivable (Note 3)

 

(110)

 

(96)

            Materials and supplies

 

(10)

 

            Other current assets

 

70 

 

86 

            Current liabilities other than debt

 

 162 

 

 23 

            Other - net

 

24 

 

(31)

               Net cash provided by operating activities

 

 1,211 

 

 800 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

   Property additions

 

(669)

 

(536)

   Property sales and other transactions

 

 45 

 

 40 

   Investments, including short-term

 

(146)

 

(83)

   Investment sales and other transactions

 

 5 

 

 1 

               Net cash used for investing activities

 

(765)

 

(578)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

   Dividends

 

(102)

 

(86)

   Common stock issued - net

 

71 

 

 5 

   Proceeds from borrowings

 

202 

 

 218 

   Debt repayments

 

(426)

 

(385)

               Net cash used for financing activities

 

(255)

 

 (248)

 

 

 

 

 

               Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

191 

 

(26)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

 

 

 

   At beginning of year

 

284 

 

 184 

 

 

 

 

 

   At end of period

$

475 

$

158 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information

 

 

   Cash paid during the period for:

 

 

 

 

      Interest (net of amounts capitalized)

$

311 

$

 334 

      Income taxes

$

78 

$

 62 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

March 31,

 

2005

2004

 

($ in millions)

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

   Net income

$

194 

$

158 

   Reconciliation of net income to net cash

 

 

 

 

      provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

         Depreciation

 

197 

 

132 

         Deferred income taxes

 

24 

 

28 

         Equity in earnings of Conrail

 

(6)

 

(15)

         Gains and losses on properties and investments

 

(7)

 

(1)

         Changes in assets and liabilities affecting operations:

 

 

 

 

            Accounts receivable

 

(52)

 

(71)

            Materials and supplies

 

(10)

 

(5)

            Other current assets

 

23 

 

20 

            Current liabilities other than debt

 

36 

 

40 

            Other - net

 

 

(28)

               Net cash provided by operating activities

 

408 

 

258 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

   Property additions

 

(144)

 

(172)

   Property sales and other transactions

 

 

   Investments, including short-term

 

(303)

 

(23)

   Investment sales and other transactions

 

216 

 

               Net cash used for investing activities

 

(227)

 

(193)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

   Dividends

 

(44)

 

(32)

   Common stock issued - net

 

66 

 

   Proceeds from borrowings

 

332 

 

88 

   Debt repayments

 

(138)

 

(303)

               Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

 

216 

 

(242)

 

 

 

 

 

               Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

397 

 

(177)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

 

 

 

   At beginning of year

 

467 

 

284 

 

 

 

 

 

   At end of period

$

864 

$

107 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information

 

 

   Cash paid during the period for:

 

 

 

 

      Interest (net of amounts capitalized)

$

70 

$

71 

      Income taxes

$

- -- 

$

- -- 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 


NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

 

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary to present fairly Norfolk Southern Corporation and subsidiaries' (NS) financial position as of Sept. 30, 2004,March 31, 2005, and its results of operations for the three and nine months ended Sept. 30, 2004 and 2003, and its cash flows for the ninethree months ended Sept. 30,March 31, 2005 and 2004, and 2003, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Although management believes that the disclosures presented are adequate to make the information not misleading, theseThese Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with:   (a)with the financial statements and notes included in NS' latest Annual Report on Form 10‑KK.

Certain amounts have been reclassified to conform to current presentation.   Specifically, $112 million of auction rate securities held at Dec. 31, 2004 , previously classified as cash equivalents have been reclassified as short-term investments.   These securities were sold in the first quarter of 2005 at market value, which was equal to their carrying cost, and (b) any Current Reports on Form 8‑K.accordingly are included in "Investment sales and other transactions" in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.   There were no auction rate securities held at the beginning of 2004.   In addition, the following items shown in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of Dec. 31, 2004, have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation in the Consolidated Balance Sheets filed herewith: (1) "Investment in Conrail" and the amount of investments included in "Other assets" have been reclassified and comprise "Investments" and (2) "Due to Conrail" has been reclassified and is included in the amount shown for "Accounts payable."

 

1.   Stock-Based Compensation

 

During the first quarter of 2004,2005, a committee of nonemployee directors of NS' Board granted stock options, performance share units (PSUs) and restricted shares pursuant to the stockholder-approved Long-Term Incentive Plan.   Options to purchase 4,580,5001,353,600 shares were granted with an option price of $22.02,$34.10, which was the fair market value of Common Stock on the date of grant.   The options have a term of ten years, but may not be exercised prior to the firstthird anniversary of the date of grant.   PSUs granted totaled 831,0001,344,400 and will be awarded based on achievement of certain predetermined corporate performance goals at the end of a three-year cycle.   One-half of any PSUs earned will be paid in the form of shares of Common Stock with the other half to be paid in cash.   Restricted shares granted totaled 359,040576,240 and have a three-yearfive-year vesting and restriction period.period unless certain predetermined stock performance goals are met at the end of three years, in which case the shares become fully vested and the restrictions are lifted.

 

NS applies the intrinsic value recognition and measurement principles of APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations in accounting for its stock-based employee compensation plans.   As a result, the grants of PSUs and restricted shares resultedresult in charges to net income, while the stock-option grant did not result in a charge to net income.   The portion of the restricted stock that has not yet been earned is shown as a reduction of stockholders' equity on NS' Consolidated Balance Sheet.  


The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if NS had applied the fair value recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" to stock-based employee compensation:

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

March 31,

2004

2003

2004

2003

2005

2004

($ in millions, except per share)

($ in millions, except per share)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income, as reported

$

288 

$

137

$

659 

$

483 

$

194  

$

158 

Add: Stock-based employee compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

expense included in reported net income,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

net of related tax effects

 

 

 

19 

 

 

7  

 

Deduct: Stock-based employee compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

expense determined under fair value method,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

net of related tax effects

 

(12)

 

(7)

 

(30)

 

(23)

 

(8) 

 

(7)

Pro forma net income

$

285 

$

133 

$

648 

$

468 

$

193  

$

153 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

$

0.73 

$

0.35 

$

1.68 

$

 1.24 

$

0.48  

$

0.40 

Diluted

$

0.72 

$

0.35 

$

1.66 

$

1.24 

$

0.47  

$

0.40 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pro forma

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

$

0.72 

$

0.34 

$

1.65 

$

 1.20 

$

0.48  

$

0.39 

Diluted

$

0.71 

$

0.34 

$

1.63 

$

1.20 

$

0.47  

$

0.39 

 

2.   Investments

 

March 31,
2005

 

Dec. 31, 2004

Investment in Conrail Inc.

$     811

 

$      805

Other equity method investments

317

 

313

Company-owned life insurance at net cash    surrender value

269

 

254

Other investments

128

 

127

     Total investments

$ 1,525

 

$   1,499

Investment in Conrail

Overview

 

Through a limited liability company, Norfolk Southern and CSX Corporation (CSX) jointly own Conrail Inc. (Conrail), whose primary subsidiary is Consolidated Rail Corporation (CRC).   NS has a 58% economic and 50% voting interest in the jointly owned entity, and CSX has the remainder of the economic and voting interests.   NS applies the equity method of accounting to its investment in Conrail.  

On August 27, 2004 , NS, CSX and Conrail completed a reorganization of Conrail (Conrail Corporate Reorganization), which established direct ownership and control by Norfolk Southern Railway (NSR) and CSX Transportation Inc. (CSXT) of two former CRC ownssubsidiaries, Pennsylvania Lines LLC (PRR) and operatesNew York Central Lines LLC (NYC), respectively.   Prior to the Conrail Corporate Reorganization, NSR operated the routes and assets of PRR, and CSXT operated the routes and assets of NYC, each in accordance with operating and lease agreements.   Pursuant to the Conrail Corporate Reorganization, the operating and lease agreements were terminated and PRR and NYC were merged into NSR and CSXT, respectively.   As a part of the Conrail Corporate Reorganization, Conrail restructured its existing unsecured and secured public indebtedness, with the consent of Conrail's debtholders.   As a result of the transaction NSR and CSXT issued new unsecured debt securities in exchange for Conrail debentures and entered into leases and subleases with Conrail to support its secured debt obligations in proportion to their economic ownership percentages.

CRC continues to own and operate certain properties (the Shared Assets Areas) for the joint and exclusive benefit of Norfolk Southern Railway Company (NSR)NSR and CSX Transportation Inc. (CSXT).CSXT.   The costs of operating the Shared Assets Areas are borne by NSR and CSXT based on usage.   In addition, NSR and CSXT pay CRC a fee for access to the Shared Assets Areas.

Conrail Reorganization

On August 27, 2004 , NS, CSX and Conrail completed a reorganization of Conrail (Conrail Reorganization), which established direct ownership and control by NSR and CSXT of two former CRC subsidiaries, Pennsylvania Lines LLC (PRR) and New York Central Lines LLC (NYC), respectively.   Prior to   After the Conrail Reorganization, NSR operated the routes and assets of PRR and CSXT operated the routes and assets of NYC, each in accordance with operating and lease agreements.   Pursuant to the Conrail Reorganization, the operating and lease agreements were terminated and PRR and NYC were merged into NSR and CSXT, respectively.   The reorganization did not involve the Shared Assets Areas and did not affect the competitive rail service provided in the Shared Assets Areas.   Conrail continues to own, manage and operate the Shared Assets Areas as previously approved by the Surface Transportation Board (STB).   In connection with the Conrail Reorganization, NS, CSX and Conrail obtained a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding certain tax matters, and the STB approved the transaction.

As a part of the Conrail Reorganization, Conrail restructured its existing unsecured and secured public indebtedness, with the consent of Conrail's debtholders.   Prior to the restructuring, there were two series of unsecured public debentures with an outstanding principal amount of approximately $800 million and 13 series of secured debt with an outstanding principal amount of approximately $300 million.   Guaranteed debt securities were offered in an approximate 58%/42% ratio in exchange for Conrail's unsecured debentures.   Of the $800 million unsecured public debentures, $779 million were tendered and accepted for exchange.   Upon completion of the transaction as described in various SEC filings, the new debt securities became direct unsecured obligations of NSR and CSXT, respectively, and rank equally with all existing and future senior unsecured debt obligations, if any, of NSR and CSXT.   Except for interest payments made in relation to the consummation of the exchange, these new debt securities have maturity dates, interest rates and principal and interest payment dates identical to those of the respective series of Conrail's unsecured debentures.   In addition, these new debt securities have covenants substantially similar to those of the publicly traded debt securities of NS and CSX, respectively.

Conrail's secured debt and lease obligations remain obligations of Conrail and are supported by leases and subleases which are the direct lease and sublease obligations of NSR or CSXT.

NS accounted for the transaction at fair value, which resulted in the recognition of a $53 million net gain (reported in "Other income - net") from the tax-free distribution to NS of a portion of its investment in Conrail.   As a result of the transaction, NS' investment in Conrail no longer includes amounts related to PRR and NYC.   Instead the assets and liabilities of PRR are reflected in their respective line items in NS' Consolidated Balance Sheet and amounts due to PRR were extinguished.


The following summarizes the effect of the transaction on NS' Consolidated Balance Sheet ($ in millions):

Properties

$

8,368 

Extinguishment of amounts due to PRR

870 

Other assets and liabilities, net

177 

Deferred income taxes

(3,113)

Long-term debt, including current maturities

(734)

     Net assets received

5,568 

Investment in Conrail

(5,515)

     Gain from Conrail corporate reorganization

$

53 

The amounts shown above for the net assets received reflect the fair value of such assets.   Properties have been valued based on information received from an independent valuation consultant, and NS will receive a final detailed valuation report in the fourth quarter.   Debt has been recorded at fair value based on interest rates at the time of the reorganization.

On the Consolidated Income Statement, "Conrail rents and services" is reduced as a result of the transaction.   After the ConrailCorporate Reorganization, "Conrail rents and services" reflects only the expenses associated with the Shared Assets Areas, and other expenses (primarily the depreciation related to the former PRR assets) are reflected in their respective line items.   The transaction's impact on net income was the $53 million gain discussed above.   Prospectively, the transaction will not have a significant ongoing effect on net income.

Investment in Conrail

NS is continuing to apply the equity method of accounting to its remaining investment in Conrail in accordance with APB Opinion No. 18, "The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock."   NS is amortizing the excess of the purchase price over Conrail's net equity using the principles of purchase accounting, based primarily on the estimated remaining useful lives of Conrail's depreciable property and equipment, including the related deferred tax effect of the differences in tax and accounting bases for certain assets.   At Sept. 30, 2004 , the difference between NS' investment in Conrail and its share of Conrail's underlying net equity was $593 million.

NS' Consolidated Balance Sheet at Sept. 30, 2004 , includes $21 million of liabilities related to the original Conrail transaction, principally for contractual obligations to Conrail employees imposed by the STB when it approved the transaction.   Through Sept. 30, 2004 , NS has paid $182 million of such costs.

Reclassification

In finalizing information contained in this report, certain Sept. 30, 2004, balance sheet amounts have been reclassified from information furnished on Oct. 20, 2004, on Form 8-K as follows:   a $58 million increase to "Investment in Conrail," a $96 million decrease to "Properties" and a $38 million decrease to related "Deferred income taxes."

Related-Party Transactions

NS provides certain general and administrative support functions to Conrail, the fees for which are billed in accordance with several service-provider arrangements and amount to approximately $7 million annually.

"ConrailAccordingly, "Conrail rents and services" includes:   (1) expenses for amounts due to PRR for use by NSR of operating properties and equipment prior to the Conrail Corporate Reorganization, (2) NS' equity in the earnings of Conrail, net of amortization, prior to the Conrail Corporate Reorganization, and (3) expenses for amounts due to CRC for operation of the Shared Assets Areas.   After the Conrail Reorganization, "Conrail rents and services" includes only expenses for amounts due to CRC for operation of the Shared Assets Areas.   NS' equity in the earnings of Conrail, net of amortization, after the Reorganizationreorganization is included in "Other income - net."

 

"Accounts payable" includes $86 million at March 31, 2005 , and $78 million at Dec. 31, 2004 , due to Conrail for the operation of the Shared Assets Areas.   In addition, "Other liabilities" includes a $32 million long-term advance from Conrail entered into in the first quarter of 2005 and bears interest at 4.5%.

Prior to the Conrail Corporate Reorganization, a significant portion of the payments made to PRR under the operating and lease agreements was borrowed back from a subsidiary of PRR, under a note due in 2032.   Amounts outstanding under this note comprised the long‑term balance of "Due to Conrail," and this note was effectively extinguished by the reorganization.   "Duereorganization in 2004.   These borrowings amounted to Conrail" included in current liabilities is composed of amounts related to expenses included in "Conrail rents and services," as discussed above.

Summary Financial Information - Conrail

As a result of the Conrail Reorganization discussed above, two CRC subsidiaries, PRR and NYC, were distributed to NS and CSX, respectively, and CRC's public indebtedness was restructured.   The results of the operations of these subsidiaries and their net assets are presented in the following financial information as "Discontinued Operations."   This historical cost basis financial information should be read in conjunction with Conrail's audited financial statements, included as Exhibit 99 with NS' 2003 Annual Report on Form 10‑K.  

Summarized Consolidated Statements of Income - Conrail

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

 

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

 

2004

2003

2004

2003

 

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating revenues

$

87  

$

77 

$

247 

$

235 

Operating income (loss)

$

(4) 

$

(7)

$

(21)

$

(23)

Income from continuing operations

$

4  

$

$

10 

$

Discontinued operations (PRR and NYC)

$

29  

$

39 

$

117 

$

151 

Net income

$

33  

$

42 

$

126 

$

158 

Note:   Conrail adopted FIN No. 46(R) "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities," and recorded$69 million in the first quarterthree months of 2004 a $1 million net adjustment for the cumulative effect of this change in accounting on years prior to 2004.   Conrail adopted SFAS No. 143, effective Jan. 1, 2003 , and recorded a $40 million net adjustment for the cumulative effect of this change in accounting on years prior to 2003 (including $38 million related to discontinued operations).   NS excluded this amount from its determination of equity in earnings of Conrail because an amount related to Conrail is included in NS' cumulative effect adjustment for SFAS No. 143.

Summarized Consolidated Balance Sheets - Conrail

 

Sept. 30,

Dec. 31,

 

2004

2003

 

($ in millions)

Assets:

 

 

 

 

   Current assets

$

331

$

186

   Noncurrent assets

 

1,095

 

952

   Assets of discontinued operations (PRR and NYC)

 

- -- 

 

7,176

      Total assets

$

1,426

$

8,314

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

$

240

$

260

Noncurrent liabilities

 

842

 

849

Liabilities of discontinued operations (PRR and NYC)

 

- --

 

2,751

Stockholders' equity

 

344

 

4,454

      Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

1,426

$

8,314

 

3.

 Accounts Receivable

NS has in place an accounts receivable sales program.   Under this program, a bankruptcy-remote special purpose subsidiary of NS sells without recourse undivided ownership interests in a pool of accounts receivable.   The buyers have a priority collection interest in the entire pool of receivables, and as a result, NS retains credit risk to the extent the pool of receivables exceeds the amount sold.   NS services and collects the receivables on behalf of the buyers, and payments collected from sold receivables can be reinvested in new accounts receivable on behalf of the buyers.   Should NS' credit rating drop below investment grade, the buyers have the right to discontinue this reinvestment.

While there were some sales during the first nine months of 2004, there were no accounts receivable sold under this arrangement as of Sept. 30, 2004 , or as of Dec. 31, 2003 ..   The change in "Accounts receivable" included on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows related to receivable sales was zero for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2004 , compared with a decrease of $30 million for the same period of 2003.   The fees associated with the sales, which are based on the buyers' financing costs, are included in "Other income - net."

NS' allowance for doubtful accounts was $7 million at Sept. 30, 2004 , and Dec. 31, 2003 ..

4.  Derivative Financial Instruments

 

NS uses derivative financial instruments to reduce the risk of volatility in its diesel fuel costs and to manage its overall exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.   NS does not engage in the trading of derivatives.   Management has determined that its derivative financial instruments qualify as either fair-value or cash-flow hedges, having values whichthat highly correlate with the underlying hedged exposures, and has designated such instruments as hedging transactions.   Credit risk related to the derivative financial instruments is considered to be minimal and is managed by requiring high credit standards for counterparties and periodic settlements.

 

Diesel Fuel Hedging

 

NS has hedged a significant portion of its diesel fuel consumption.   The intent of the hedges is to assist in the management of NS' aggregate risk exposure to fuel price fluctuations, which can significantly affect NS' operating margins and profitability.   In order to minimize this risk, NS has entered into a series of swaps in order to lock in the purchase prices of some of its diesel fuel.   Management has designated these derivative instruments as cash-flow hedges of the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows attributable to fluctuations in diesel fuel prices.

 

Following is a summary of NS' diesel fuel swaps:

 

 

 

Third Quarter

 

 

 

 

2004

2003

 

Number of swaps entered into during the third quarter

 

- --

72

 

Approximate number of gallons hedged (millions)

 

- --

95

 

Approximate average price per gallon of Nymex

 

 

 

 

   No. 2 heating oil

 

n/a

 $0.73

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remainder of

 

 

 

2004

2005

2006

 

Percent of estimated future diesel fuel consumption

   covered as of Sept. 30, 2004

61%

36%

4%

 

 

First Quarter

 

 

 

 

2005

2004

 

Number of swaps entered into during the first quarter

 

- --

72

 

Approximate number of gallons hedged (millions)

 

- --

92

 

Approximate average price per gallon of Nymex

 

 

 

 

   No. 2 heating oil

 

n/a

$0.83

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           Remainder of

 

 

 

 

2005

2006

 

Percent of estimated future diesel fuel consumption

   covered as of March 31, 2005

 

32%

4%

 

Hedges are entered into periodically by competitive bid among selected counterparties; however, no hedges have been placed since May 2004.   The goal of this hedging strategy is to reduce the variability ofaverage fuel costs over an extended period of time while minimizing the incremental cost of hedging. The program provides that NS will not enter into any fuel hedges with a duration of more than 36 months, and that no more than 80% of NS' average monthly fuel consumption will be hedged for any month within theany 36-month period. After taking into account the effect of hedging,the hedges, diesel fuel costs represented 7%10% and 8% of NS' operating expenses forin the thirdfirst quarters of 2005 and 2004, and 2003.respectively.

 

NS' fuel hedging activity had the following effects onresulted in net decreases in diesel fuel expense:   for the third quarter, decreasesexpense of $41 million and $11$40 million for 2004first quarter 2005 and 2003, respectively, and for the first nine months, decreases of $90 million and $45$23 million for 2004 and 2003, respectively.first quarter 2004.   Ineffectiveness, or the extent to which changes in the fair values of the heating oil contracts do not offset changes in the fair values of the expected diesel fuel transactions, was approximately $5a $1 million forexpense in the first nine monthsquarter of 20042005 and less than $1a $3 million forbenefit in the same periodfirst quarter of 2003.2004.

 

Interest Rate Hedging

NS manages its overall exposure to fluctuations in interest rates by issuing both fixed and floating-rate debt instruments, and by entering into interest rate hedging transactions.   NS had $159$141 million and $151 million, or about 2%, and $186 million, or 3%, of its fixed rate debt portfolio hedged as of Sept. 30, 2004at March 31, 2005 , and Dec. 31, 20032004 , respectively, using interest rate swaps that qualify for and are designated as fair-value hedge transactions. NS' interest rate hedging activity resulted in decreases in interest expenses of $1 million and $2 million for first quarter 2005 and 2004, respectively.   These swaps have been effective in hedging the changes in fair value of the related debt arising from changes in interest rates, and accordingly, there has been no impact on earnings resulting from ineffectiveness associated with these derivative transactions.

Fair Values

 

The fair values of NS' diesel fuel derivative instruments as of Sept. 30, 2004 ,at March 31, 2005 and Dec. 31, 20032004 , were determined based upon current fair market values as quoted by an independent third party.party dealers.   Fair values of interest rate swaps were determined based upon the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the appropriate implied spot rate from the spot rate yield curve.   Fair value adjustments are noncash transactions, and accordingly, are excluded from the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.   "Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss),loss," a component of "Stockholders' equity," included unrealized gains (pretax) of $123$115 million (pretax) as of Sept. 30, 2004, and $40$75 million (pretax) as ofat March 31, 2005, and Dec. 31, 2003 , related2004, respectively, relating to an increase in the fair value of derivative fuel hedging transactions that will terminate within twelve months of the respective dates.   Any future gain or loss actually realized will be based on the fair value of the derivative fuel hedges at the time of termination.

 

The asset and liability positions of NS' outstanding derivative financial instruments were as follows:

 

Sept. 30,

Dec. 31,

March 31,

Dec. 31,

2004

2003

2005

2004

($ in millions)

($ in millions)

Interest rate hedges

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross fair market asset position

$

11

$

16

$

6  

$

9  

Gross fair market (liability) position

 

- --

 

- --

 

- --  

 

- --  

Fuel hedges

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross fair market asset position

 

140

 

45

 

118  

 

81  

Gross fair market (liability) position

 

- --

 

- --

 

- --  

 

- --  

Total net asset position

$

151

$

61

$

124  

$

90  

 

5.4.   Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits

 

NS and certain subsidiaries have both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans covering principally salaried employees.   NS and certain subsidiaries also provide specified health care and death benefits to eligible retired employees and their dependents.   Under the present plans, which may be amended or terminated at NS' option, a defined percentage of health care expenses is covered, reduced by any deductibles, copayments, Medicare payments and, in some cases, coverage provided under other group insurance policies.

 


The following tables show the pensionPension and other postretirement benefit cost components:Other Postretirement Benefit Cost Components

 

Three Months Ended Sept. 30,

2004

2003

2004

2003

Three months ended March 31,

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

2005

2004

2005

2004

($ in millions)

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

Interest cost

 

22 

 

22 

 

11 

 

10 

 

21 

 

22 

 

12 

 

11 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(37)

 

(39)

 

(3)

 

(3)

 

(38)

 

(37)

 

(3)

 

(4)

Amortization of prior service cost (benefit)

 

 

 

(2)

 

(1)

 

 

 

(3)

 

(3)

Amortization of unrecognized net loss

 

 

- -- 

 

 

Recognized net actuarial losses

 

 

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

Amortization of unrecognized losses

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

 

 

Net (benefit) cost

$

(9)

$

(11)

$

13 

$

14 

$

(6)

$

(9)

$

15 

$

12 

 

 

Nine Months Ended Sept. 30,

 

2004

2003

2004

2003

 

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

 

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

$

13 

$

15 

$

12 

$

13 

Interest cost

 

67 

 

66 

 

33 

 

28 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(111)

 

(119)

 

(11)

 

(9)

Amortization of prior service cost (benefit)

 

 

 

(8)

 

(3)

Recognized net actuarial loss

 

- -- 

 

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

Amortization of unrecognized net loss

 

 

- -- 

 

11 

 

11 

     Net (benefit) cost

$

(27)

$

(34)

$

37 

$

40 

Contributions for Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

 

NS previously disclosed in its consolidated financial statements for the year ended Dec. 31, 20032004 , that it expected to contribute in 2004 $7 million to its unfunded pension plans for payments to pensioners and $42$44 million to its other postretirement benefit plans for retiree health benefits.in 2005.   For the ninethree months ended Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 , $5$1 million and $34$11 million of contributions have been made to its unfunded pension plans and its other postretirement benefit plans, respectively.   Accordingly, NS presently anticipates contributing in the fourth quarter the remaining $2an additional $6 million to its unfunded pension plans for a total of $7 million and the remaining $8an additional $33 million to fund its other postretirement benefit plans.plans in 2005 for a total of $44 million.

 

6.   Long-term5. Long-Term Debt

 

In September 2004,On March 11, 2005, NS exchanged $400issued $300 million of 6% Senior Notes due March 2105 under its 7.350% notes maturing May 2007 for $442 million of 5.257% notes maturing Sept. 2014.   The $42 million difference will be recognized as additional interest expense over the life of the new notes.

In September 2004, NS filedshelf registration statement on Form S-3 a shelf registration statementfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission covering theSEC in September 2004.   At March 31, 2005 , $700 million is available for future issuance of up to $550 million of securities.   This, together with the $450 million of securities authorized but unissued from a prior $1 billion shelf registration, allows the company to issue up to $1 billion of registered debt or equity securities.   As of Sept. 30, 2004 , NS had issued no securities under this registration.

In August 2004, NS renewed its $1 billion credit facility, and the new facility will expire in 2009.   The terms and covenants are substantially the same as the previous facility.


7.   Discontinued Operations

Results for the first nine months of 2003 included an additional after-tax gain of $10 million, or 3 cents per share (basic and diluted), related to the 1998 sale of NS' motor carrier subsidiary, North American Van Lines, Inc.   This noncash gain resulted from the resolution of tax issues related to the transaction.

8.   Changes in Accounting Principlesregistration statement.

 

NS adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ( FASB ) Statement No. 143, "Accountinghas commenced offers to exchange existing notes for Asset Retirement Obligations," (SFAS No. 143) effective Jan. 1, 2003,new notes and recorded a $110 million net adjustment ($182 million before taxes) forcash as described in the cumulative effectregistration statement on Form S-4 and the related prospectuses filed with the SEC in April 2005.   The purpose of this change in accounting on years priorthe exchange offers is to 2003.   Pursuant to SFAS No. 143, the cost to remove crossties must be recorded as an expense when incurred; previously these removal costs were accrued as a component of depreciation.improve NS' debt maturity profile.

 

NS also adopted FASB Interpretation No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities," (FIN No. 46) effective Jan. 1, 2003, and recorded a $4 million net adjustment ($6 million before taxes) for the cumulative effect of this change in accounting on years prior to 2003.   Pursuant to FIN No. 46, NS has consolidated a special-purpose entity that leases certain locomotives to NS.   This entity's assets and liabilities at Jan. 1, 2003 , included $169 million of locomotives and $157 million of debt related to their purchase as well as a $6 million minority interest liability.

The cumulative effect of these changes amounted to $114 million, or 29 cents per share (basic and diluted).

9.6.  Earnings Per Share

 

 

The following table sets forth the reconciliation of the number of weighted-average shares outstanding used in the calculations of basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

March 31,

2004

2003

2004

2003

2005

2004

(In millions)

(in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average shares outstanding

 

394.4

 

389.9

 

392.7

 

389.6

 

401.8

 

391.2

Dilutive effect of outstanding options,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

performance share units and restricted stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(as determined by the application of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

the treasury stock method)

 

5.7

 

1.6

 

4.1

 

1.8

 

8.3

 

2.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding

 

400.1

 

391.5

 

396.8

 

391.4

 

410.1

 

394.0

 

The calculations exclude options whose exercise price exceeded the average market price of Common Stock for the period as follows: none in 2004, 13 million in the third quarter, 15 million in the second quarter2005 and 22 million in the first quarter; and in 2003, 31 million in the third quarter, 25 million in the second quarter and 31 million in the first quarter.2004.   There are no adjustments to "Net income" for the diluted earnings per share computations.

 


10.7.  Comprehensive Income

 

NS' total comprehensive income was as follows:

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

March 31,

2004

2003

2004

2003

2005

2004

($ in millions)

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

288

$

137 

$

659

$

483 

$

194

$

158

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

32

 

(5)

 

55

 

(4)

Other comprehensive income

 

22

 

7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income

$

320

$

132 

$

714

$

479 

$

216

$

165

 

 

For NS, "Other comprehensive income (loss)"income" reflects primarily the net fair value adjustments, net of tax, to certain derivative financial instruments and unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities.instruments.

 

11.8.    Commitments and Contingencies

 

Lawsuits

 

Norfolk Southern and certain subsidiaries are defendants in numerous lawsuits and other claims relating principally to railroad operations.   When management concludes that it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, it is accrued through a charge to earnings.   While the ultimate amount of liability incurred in any of these lawsuits and claims is dependent on future developments, in management's opinion, the recorded liability is adequate to cover the future payment of such liability and claims.   However, the final outcome of any of these lawsuits and claims cannot be predicted with certainty, and unfavorable or unexpected outcomes could result in additional accruals that could be significant to results of operations in a particular year or quarter.   Any adjustments to the recorded liability will be reflected in earnings in the periods in which such adjustments are known.

 

Casualty Claims

 

NS is generally self-insured for casualtyCasualty claims include employee personal injury and occupational claims as well as third-party claims.   NS has insurance,engages an independent consulting actuarial firm to aid in valuing its liability for these claims.   Job-related accidental injury and occupational claims are subject to limits, for catastrophic events.the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA), which is applicable only to railroads.   FELA's fault-based system produces results that are unpredictable and inconsistent as compared with a no-fault workers' compensation system.   The casualty claimsvariability inherent in this system could result in actual costs being very different from the liability is determined actuarially, based upon claims filed and an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported.recorded.   While the ultimate amount of claims incurred is dependent on future developments, in management's opinion, the recorded liability after considering applicable insurance coverage is adequate to cover the future payments of claims and is supported by the most recent actuarial study.   In all cases, NS records a liability when the expected loss for the claim is both probable and estimable.

In the first quarter of 2005, NS recorded a liability related to the Jan. 6, 2005 derailment in Graniteville , SC.   The liability, which includes a current and long-term portion, represents NS' best estimate based on current facts and circumstances.   The estimate includes amounts related to business property damage and other economic losses, personal injury and individual property damage claims as well as third-party response costs.   NS' commercial insurance policies are expected to cover substantially all expenses related to this derailment above NS' self-insured retention, including NS' response costs and legal fees.   Accordingly, the Consolidated Balance Sheet reflects a current and long-term receivable for estimated recoveries from NS' insurance carriers.   First-quarter expenses include approximately $35 million related to this incident, which represents NS' retention under its insurance policies and other uninsured costs.   While it is reasonable to expect that the liability for covered losses could differ from the amount recorded, such a change would be offset by a corresponding change in the insurance receivable.   As a result, NS does not believe that it is reasonably likely that its total loss (the difference between the liability and future recoveries) will be materially different than the loss recorded in the first quarter of 2005.   NS expects at this time that insurance coverage is adequate to cover potential claims and settlements above its self-insurance retention.

Employee personal injury claims - The largest component of casualties and other claims expense is employee personal injury costs.   The actuarial firm engaged by NS provides quarterly studies to aid in valuing its employee personal injury liability and estimating its employee personal injury expense.   The actuarial firm studies NS' historical patterns of reserving for claims and subsequent settlements, taking into account relevant outside influences.   The actuary uses the results of these analyses to estimate the ultimate amount of the liability, which includes amounts for incurred but unasserted claims.   NS adjusts its liability to the actuarially determined amount on a quarterly basis.   The estimate of loss liabilities is subject to inherent limitation given the difficulty of predicting future events such as jury decisions, court interpretations or legislative changes and as such the actual loss may vary from the actuarial estimate.

Occupational claims - - Occupational claims (including asbestosis and other respiratory diseases, as well as repetitive motion) are often not caused by a specific accident or event but rather result from a claimed exposure over time.   Many such claims are being asserted by former or retired employees, some of whom have not been employed in the rail industry for decades.   The actuarial firm provides an estimate of the occupational claims liability based upon NS' history of claim filings, severity, payments and other pertinent facts.   The liability is dependent upon management's judgments made as to the specific case reserves as well as judgments of the consulting actuarial firm in the periodic studies.   The actuarial firm's estimate of ultimate loss includes a provision for those claims that have been incurred but not reported.   This provision is derived by analyzing industry data and projecting NS' experience into the future as far as can be reasonably determined.   NS adjusts its liability to the actuarially determined amount on a quarterly basis.   However, it is possible that the recorded liability may not be adequate to cover the future payment of claims.   Adjustments to the recorded liability are reflected in operating expenses in the periods in which such adjustments arebecome known.

 

Third-party claims - - NS records a liability for third-party claims including those for highway crossing accidents, trespasser and other injuries, automobile liability, property damage and lading damage.   The actuarial firm assists with the calculation of potential liability for third-party claims, except lading damage, based upon NS' experience including number and timing of incidents, amount of payments, settlement rates, number of open claims and legal defenses.   The actuarial estimate includes a provision for claims that have been incurred but have not yet been reported.   Each quarter NS adjusts its liability to the actuarially determined amount.   Given the inherent uncertainty in regard to the ultimate outcome of third-party claims, it is possible that future settlement costs may differ from the estimated liability recorded.

Environmental Matters

NS is subject to various jurisdictions' environmental laws and regulations.   It is NS' policy to record a liability where such liability or loss is probable and its amount can be estimated reasonably.   Claims, if any, against third parties for recovery of cleanup costs incurred by NS are reflected as receivables (when collection is probable) on the balance sheet and are not netted against the associated NS liability.   Environmental engineers regularly participate in ongoing evaluations of all known sites and in determining any necessary adjustments to liability estimates.   NS also has established an Environmental Policy Council, composed of senior managers, to oversee and interpret its environmental policy.

 

NS' balance sheetsConsolidated Balance Sheets included liabilities for environmental exposures in the amount of $66$64 million at  Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 , and $25 million at Dec. 31, 20032004 (of which $12 million was accounted for as a current liability at Sept. 30, 2004in each period).   At March 31, 2005 , and $8 million at Dec. 31, 2003 ).   The increase in the liability was the result of the Conrail Reorganization and relates to sites on the former PRR properties.   At Sept. 30, 2004, the liability represented NS' estimate of the probable cleanup and remediation costs based on available information at 207206 known locations.   On that date, 1415 sites accounted for $31$32 million of the liability, and no individual site was considered to be material.   NS anticipates that much of this liability will be paid out over five years; however, some costs will be paid out over a longer period.

 

At some of the 207206 locations, certain NS subsidiaries, usually in conjunction with a number of other parties, have been identified as potentially responsible parties by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or similar state authorities under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, or comparable state statutes, which often impose joint and several liability for cleanup costs.

 

With respect to known environmental sites (whether identified by NS or by the EPA or comparable state authorities), estimates of NS' ultimate potential financial exposure for a given site or in the aggregate for all such sites are necessarily imprecise because of the widely varying costs of currently available cleanup techniques, the likely development of new cleanup technologies, the difficulty of determining in advance the nature and full extent of contamination and each potential participant's share of any estimated loss (and that participant's ability to bear it), and evolving statutory and regulatory standards governing liability.

 

The risk of incurring environmental liability - for acts and omissions, past, present and future - is inherent in the railroad business.   Some of the commodities in NS' traffic mix, particularly those classified as hazardous materials, can pose special risks that NS and its subsidiaries work diligently to minimize.   In addition, several NS subsidiaries own, or have owned, land used as operating property, or which is leased or may have been leased and operated by others, or held for sale.   Because environmental problems may exist on these properties that are latent or undisclosed, may exist on these properties, there can be no assurance that NS will not incur environmental liabilities or costs with respect to one or more of them, the amount and materiality of which cannot be estimated reliably at this time.   Moreover, lawsuits and claims involving these and potentially other now-unidentifiedunidentified environmental sites and matters are likely to arise from time to time.   The resulting liabilities could have a significant effect on financial condition, results of operations or liquidity in a particular year or quarter.

 

However, based on its assessment of the facts and circumstances now known, management believes that it has recorded the probable costs for dealing with those environmental matters of which the Corporation is aware.   Further, management believes that it is unlikely that any known matters, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on NS' financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Purchase CommitmentsInsurance

 

At Sept. 30, 2004NS obtains on behalf of itself and its subsidiaries commercial insurance for potential losses for third-party liability and first-party property damages.   Specified levels of risk are retained on a self-insurance basis (up to $25 million per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage to third parties and $12.5 million per occurrence for property owned by NS or in NS' care, custody or control).

Purchase Commitments

As of March 31, 2005 , NSNSR had outstanding purchase commitments of approximately $200$481 million in connection with its 20042005 and 2006 capital programs, including 102 locomotives in 2005 capital programs.and 183 locomotives in 2006.   In addition, Norfolk Southern has committed to purchase telecommunications services totaling $30$23 million through 2006.2007.


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

The Stockholders and Board of Directors

Norfolk Southern Corporation:

 

We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Norfolk Southern Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2004March 31, 2005 , and the related consolidated statements of income for the three-month and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2004 and 2003 and the related consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine-monththree-month periods ended September 30, 2004March 31, 2005 and 2003.2004.   These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.

 

We conducted our reviews in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ( United States ).   A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters.   It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ( United States ), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole.   Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

 

Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the consolidated financial statements referred to above for them to be in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

As discussed in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations, and Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, as of January 1, 2003 ..

 

We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of Norfolk Southern Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003,2004, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein); and in our report dated January 27, 2004,February 28, 2005, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.   In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 20032004 , is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.

 

 

/s/ KPMG LLP

Norfolk , Virginia

October 27, 2004April 26, 2005



Item 2.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Overview

Third-quarterFirst-quarter net income was $288$194 million in 2004,2005, compared with $137$158 million in 2003.2004.   The increase was the result of a $158$57 million, or 51%16%, increase in income from railway operations, which was driven by a 16% rise in revenues, which reflected increased volumes as well as higher rates and also included a $53 million net noncash gain from the Conrail Reorganization reported in "Other income - net" (see Note 2).fuel surcharges.   Railway operating expenses rose only 8% despite an 11% increase16%, reflecting increased traffic volume, higher diesel fuel prices and costs arising from the derailment in carloads, evidencing the continued fluidity of the railroad network.

For the first nine months,Graniteville, SC (see Note 8), which amounted to approximately $35 million and reduced net income was $659 million in 2004, compared with $483 million in 2003.   The following table shows the components of the change:

 

First Nine Months

 

 

 

 

 

2004 vs. 2003

 

 

 

 

 

Increase

 

2004

2003

(Decrease)

 

($ in millions)

Income from continuing operations

   before accounting changes

$

659 

$

359

$

300 

Discontinued operations - taxes on

   sale of motor carrier

 

- -- 

 

10

 

(10)

Cumulative effect of changes in

   accounting principles, net of taxes

 

- -- 

 

114

 

(114)

      Net income

$

659 

$

483

$

176 

Income from continuing operations before accounting changes increased $300 million, or 84%, in the first nine months of 2004, compared with the same period last year.   The growth resulted from a $571 million, or 12%, increase in railway operating revenues coupled with a 4% rise in railway operating expenses, which led to higher income from railway operations, and also reflects the $53 million net noncash gain from the Conrail Reorganization (see Note 2).by $21 million.

 

Railway Operating Revenues

 

Third-quarterFirst-quarter railway operating revenues were $1.9a record $1.96 billion in 2004,2005, up $259$268 million, or 16%, compared with the thirdfirst quarter of 2003.   For the first nine months, revenues were $5.4 billion, up $571 million, or 12%.2004.   As shown in the following table, the increases wereincrease was the result of increased average revenues and higher traffic volume and increased average revenues.volume.

 

 

First Quarter

 

 

 

2005 vs. 2004

 

 

 

Increase (Decrease)

 

 

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

Traffic volume (carloads)

$

102

 

Revenue per unit/mix

 

166

 

 

 

 

 

   Total

$

268

 

 

 

 

Third Quarter

First Nine Months

 

2004 vs. 2003

2004 vs. 2003

 

Increase (Decrease)

Increase (Decrease)

 

($ in millions)

 

 

 

Traffic volume (units)

$   169

$   405

Revenue per unit/mix

       90

    166

 

 

$   259

 

$   571

Revenues, volumecarloads and average revenue per unit for the commodity groups were as follows:

 

Third Quarter

First Quarter

Revenues

Units

Revenue per Unit

Revenues

Carloads

Revenue per Unit

2004

2003

2004

2003

2004

2003

2005

2004

2005

2004

2005

2004

($ in millions)

(in thousands)

($ per unit)

($ in millions)

(in thousands)

($ per unit)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coal

$

447

$

372

 

429

 

407

$

1,045

$

915

$

467

$

398

 

420.6

 

406.3

$

1,111

$

979

General merchandise:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Automotive

 

210

 

205

 

140

 

142

 

1,508

 

1,447

 

251

 

248

 

159.2

 

166.9

 

1,579

 

1,486

Chemicals

 

226

 

196

 

115

 

108

 

1,950

 

1,805

 

231

 

203

 

112.1

 

110.2

 

2,058

 

1,844

Metals/construction

 

214

 

180

 

206

 

187

 

1,042

 

965

 

224

 

183

 

185.8

 

177.2

 

1,206

 

1,033

Agr./consumer prod./govt.

 

179

 

167

 

142

 

138

 

1,264

 

1,212

 

193

 

176

 

145.5

 

141.0

 

1,323

 

1,251

Paper/clay/forest

 

177

 

163

 

114

 

113

 

1,546

 

1,445

 

187

 

157

 

113.4

 

107.3

 

1,650

 

1,459

General merchandise

 

1,006

 

911

 

717

 

688

 

1,403

 

1,325

 

1,086

 

967

 

716.0

 

702.6

 

1,517

 

1,377

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intermodal

 

404

 

315

 

759

 

627

 

532

 

502

 

408

 

328

 

726.5

 

648.1

 

561

 

506

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

1,857

$

1,598

 

1,905

 

1,722

$

975

$

928

$

1,961

$

1,693

 

1,863.1

 

1,757.0

$

1,053

$

964

 

First Nine Months

 

Revenues

Units

Revenue per Unit

 

2004

2003

2004

2003

2004

2003

 

($ in millions)

(in thousands)

($ per unit)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coal

$

1,269

$

1,115

 

1,262

 

1,222

$

1,006

$

913

General merchandise:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Automotive

 

710

 

689

 

477

 

477

 

1,490

 

1,444

   Chemicals

 

643

 

578

 

338

 

319

 

1,902

 

1,812

   Metals/construction

 

606

 

521

 

587

 

532

 

1,033

 

980

   Agr./consumer prod./govt.

 

537

 

510

 

423

 

409

 

1,269

 

1,245

   Paper/clay/forest

 

502

 

475

 

335

 

333

 

1,499

 

1,428

General merchandise

 

2,998

 

2,773

 

2,160

 

2,070

 

1,388

 

1,340

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intermodal

 

1,096

 

904

 

2,115

 

1,814

 

518

 

498

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Total

$

5,363

$

4,792

 

5,537

 

5,106

$

969

$

939


Coal

 

CoalFirst-quarter coal revenues increased $75$69 million, or 20%17%, in the third quarter and $154 million, or 14%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periods last year.   Total traffic volume (carloads) handledwas up 4%, principally due to higher utility and export coal volume.   Utility coal volume rose 3% due to increased 5%demand for coal fired generation caused by high, volatile natural gas prices in the quarter and 3% foraddition to the first nine months, primarily becausequarter shut down of higher export coal and utility volume.five nuclear power plants for maintenance.   Export coal volume increased 49% in the quarter19%, due to sustained global demand for metallurgical coal and 31% for the first nine months, supported bycoke.   Domestic metallurgical coal shipments rose 9% due to increased demand for U.S. coal as reduced exports from China have resulted in more shipments to European steelmakers.   Shipmentsthe production of utility coal increased 3% in the quarter and 2%coke for the first nine months, and utility stockpiles remained low at some plants.   Domestic metallurgical coal, coke and iron ore volume increased 1% in the third quarter but declined 4% for the first nine months, mostly because of reduced iron ore shipments.steel market.   Average revenue per carload was up 14% in the third quarter and 10% for the first nine months,13%, reflecting increased rates, a favorable change in the mix of traffic (the rate of increase in longer haul traffic exceeded that of shorter haul traffic), higher rates for export coal and the favorable effects of a fuel surcharge.

 

TwoNS is involved in rate cases with two of NS'its utility customers, Duke Energy (Duke) and Carolina Power & Light (CP&L),.   In 2002, Duke and CP&L filed rate reasonableness complaints at the STB alleging that NS' tariff rates for the transportation of coal were unreasonable.   In the Duke proceeding, the STB initially found NS' rates to be reasonable in November 2003, but subsequently issued technical corrections in February 2004, finding that in certain years some portion of the rates was unreasonable.   In the CP&L proceeding, the STB found NS' rates to be unreasonable in December 2003, but upheld a significant portion of NS' tariff increase.   As required by the STB's decision, earlier this year NS paid reparations to CP&L representing that portion of the previously charged rate that was found to be unreasonable, with interest.   Reconsideration of the STB's rate decisions was sought by NS and by the complainants.   On Oct. 20, 2004 , in a consolidated decision, the STB found NS' rates to be reasonable in both cases.   However, inAt the ruling, the STB invitedSTB's invitation, Duke and CP&L to initiate a proceeding within 30 dayseach initiated proceedings to determine whether phasing constraints should apply.   As the STB has explained, the phasing constraint is an independent constraint relating not to the reasonableness of a rate, but to the reasonableness of collecting it immediately.   The Interstate Commerce Commission (the predecessor to the STB) had previously issued guidelines for phasing.   These guidelines indicate that phasing of a rate increase will only be required where the party seeking such relief demonstrates the need for it with specificity.   In balancing the equities of the particular phasing request, the STB will consider factors including the requirements of the railroads, the magnitude of the proposed increase, the magnitude of past increases, the dependence of the utility on coal, the economic conditions in the final destination market and the economic conditions in the coal supply area.  

 

The phasing constraint has never been invoked by a complainant utility in a rate case, and the STB has never applied it.   Therefore, it is unknown how the STB would balance the above factors, whether it would find the phasing constraint applicable, and if it did, whether phasing would be ordered retroactively or prospectively or both.   Additionally, Duke and CP&L have appealed the October 2004 STB decision on reconsideration to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals.   Although management has made an estimate of the ultimate resolution of these cases, due to these uncertainties, future developments in the Duke case and(or) the CP&L case may result in adjustments that could have a favorable or unfavorable material impact on results of operations in a particular quarter or year.   Over the long term, management believes the STB decisions in the Duke and CP&L proceedings will help support improved pricing for coal transportation services.

 

ForCoal revenues are expected to remain strong for the remainder of the year, coal revenues are expected to continue to show growth, supported byreflecting higher export, metallurgical and utility coal volumes in addition to increased average revenue per shipment.demand as utilities replenish lower than normal stockpiles and a continuation of the favorable market conditions for export and domestic metallurgical coal.

 

General Merchandise

 

GeneralFirst-quarter general merchandise revenues increased $95$119 million, or 10%12%, in the third quarter and $225 million, or 8%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periods last year.   Both increasesThe increase reflected higher traffic volume, particularly for metals &and construction, and chemicals, as well aspaper, clay and forest products, in addition to higher average revenues.   Metals &and construction volume continued to benefitbenefited from strength in construction activityincreased import and domestic slab shipments.   Paper, clay and forest products benefited from increased domestic steel production.shipments of pulp board as demand for paper products strengthened and lumber volume benefited from increased housing starts.   Chemicals traffic volume continuedreflected higher plastics and industrial intermediates shipments in response to benefitimproved manufacturing conditions and diversions from manufacturing expansion and higher plant operating rates.the highway.   Agriculture, consumer products &and government volume this quarter reflected morehigher shipments of corn, increased volumefertilizers, soybeans and feed.   Automotive volumes were down due to reductions by Ford and General Motors, partially offset by plant expansions for fertilizerHonda, Toyota , BMW and more shipments for the military.DaimlerChrysler.   General merchandise average revenue per carload increased 6% in the third quarter and 4% for the first nine months10%, reflecting increased fuel surcharges, increased ratesimproved pricing and longer lengthsa higher proportion of haul.longer-haul (higher revenue per carload) business.

 

General merchandise revenues are expected to continue to compare favorably with the prior year; however,year as 2005 progresses, subject to continued expansion in manufacturing, conversions from the extent of the increase could lessen in the fourth quarter duehighway and pricing to the comparative strength of the fourth quarter last year and the impact of recently announced cutbacks in automotive production.market.

 


Intermodal

 

IntermodalFirst-quarter intermodal revenues increased $89$80 million, or 28%24%, in the third quarter and $192 million, or 21%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periodsperiod last year.   TrafficTotal traffic volume (units) increased 21%grew 12%, reflecting strength in the third quarter and 17% for the first nine months reflecting strong trailer and container volume.all lines of business.   Intermodal traffic volume benefited from a stronger economy with increased consumer spending and international containertrade, in addition to truck capacity shortages.   International traffic volume grew by 17% and domestic traffic rose 9% reflecting strength in U.S. consumer markets.   Truckload volume increased 15% over last year, reflecting new business with traditional truckload business, as well as the conversion of truck trafficcompanies.   Triple Crown Services Company volume grew 8%, due in part to rail.expanded geographic coverage.   Intermodal average revenue per unit rose 11%, a result of increased 6% for the quarter, and 4% for the first nine months, reflecting favorable effects of rate increasesrates and fuel surcharges.

 

Intermodal revenues are expected to continue to show growth in the fourth quarter, provided the retailduring 2005 driven by strong international trade and manufacturing sectors continue to expand and with continued increases in highway diversions.market expansion.

 

Railway Operating Expenses

 

Third-quarterFirst-quarter railway operating expenses were $1.4$1.6 billion in 2004,2005, up $101$211 million, or 8%16%, compared with last year.   For the first nine months, expenses were $4.1 billion, up $171 million, or 4%, compared with 2003.   For both periods, mostsame period of the2004.   The increase was the result of higher compensation and benefits, increasedexpenses for materials, services and rents, expensecompensation and higherbenefits, and diesel fuel prices.fuel.  

 

Compensation and benefits expenses increased $39$59 million, or 7%11%, in the third quarter and $88primarily driven by higher volume-related payroll, which added $24 million, or 6%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periods last year.   All comparisons reflected higher management and locomotive engineer performance-based incentive compensation (up $7 million for the quarter and $31 million for the first nine months), higherincreased wage rates, (up $6which added $12 million, for the quarter and $25 million for the first nine months), and higher stock-based compensation, (upup $10 million, for the quarterincreased payroll taxes, up $6 million, as well as lower pension income and $19 million for the first nine months) resulting from a rise in Norfolk Southern's stock price.   Higher volume-related train and engine payroll expenses were offset, in part by reduced management employment levels.additional post-retirement costs that added $6 million.

 

Materials, services and rents increased $65$71 million, or 19%, in the third quarter and $82reflecting $41 million or 8%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periods last year.   Both periods reflected increased volume-related intermodalmore purchased services, and equipment rents as well asof which $26 million was volume-related; higher locomotive and freight car maintenance expenses.expenses, up $13 million; and higher equipment rents, up $11 million.   The increase also reflectsrise in equipment rents reflected leases from the absence of favorable adjustments for equipment bills that benefited 2003.Conrail Corporate Reorganization as well as higher traffic volume.

 

Conrail rents and services expenses decreased $26$67 million, or 25%66%, in the third quarter and $32 million, or 10%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periods last year.   The decline for both periods was primarily due to the effects of the Conrail Corporate Reorganization (see Note 2), which resulted in the consolidated reporting of individual components of Conrail equity earnings, principally depreciation, equipment rents and interest expense, (see Note 2).and which more than offset an additional $5 million in Shared Assets Areas expenses.   NS' share of equity earnings of Conrail post-reorganization is now shown withinincluded in "Other income - net."   The year-to-date decline also reflected lower expenses related to the Shared Assets Areas.

 

Depreciation expense increased $22$64 million, inor 50%, principally due to the third quarter and $25Conrail Corporate Reorganization.

Diesel fuel expense increased $43 million, in the first nine months of 2004,or 40%, as compared with the same periods of 2003, largely as a result of the Conrail Reorganization (see Note 2).   NS recently received the results of a depreciation study from an independent firm of engineers. The results of the study, which were implemented in Sept. 2004, will reduce future depreciation expense by approximately $16 million annually.

Diesel fuel expenses increased $12 million, or 14%, in the third quarter and $28 million, or 10%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periodsperiod last year, reflecting higher average prices (up 35%) and higherincreased consumption the effects of which were partially offset by fuel hedge benefits and an $8(up 4%).   Expenses in 2005 included a $40 million foreign line fuel credit.   Thebenefit from the hedging program, produced benefits of $41compared with a $23 million and $90 millionbenefit in the thirdfirst quarter and first nine months of 2004, compared with benefits of $11 million and $45 million for the same periods of 2003, respectively.2004.   No new hedges have been entered into since May of 2004.   Accordingly, if diesel fuel prices remain at their current levels, or increase further, diesel fuel expense will be higher going forward.   (See Note 43 for the percentage of estimated future diesel fuel consumption hedged.)   RecentlyLegislation enacted legislation will repealin the first quarter repeals the 4.3¢ per gallon excise tax on railroad diesel fuel and inland waterway fuel by 2007, with the following phased reductions in 2005 and 2006:   by 1¢ per gallon from Jan. 1, 2005 through June 30, 2005; 2¢ per gallon from July 1, 2005 through Dec. 31, 2006; and by the full 4.3¢ thereafter.   NS consumes approximately 500 million gallons of diesel fuel per year.

 

Casualties and other claims expense decreased $13expenses increased by $38 million, or 30%95%, inlargely due to expenses related to the third quarter and $33 million, or 23%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periods last year.   The declines reflected favorable claims development for both loss and damage and personal injury claims.   In addition, the third quarter of 2003 was burdened with unfavorableGraniteville derailment (see Note 8) as well as to adverse personal injury claims development.   For the remainder of the year, NS expects to incur about $6 million of additional Graniteville-related costs, which includes higher insurance expenses.

 

Other expense increased $2expenses rose $3 million, or 4%5%, in the third quarter, and $13 million, or 8%, in the first nine months, compared with the same periods of last year.   The increases were largely the result ofprincipally due to higher property taxes and sales and use tax.taxes.

 


Other Income - Net

 

Other income - net increased $28was $8 million, in the third quarter, but decreased $7 millionor 80%, lower in the first nine monthsquarter of 2004,2005, compared with the same periodsperiod of 2003.   Both comparisons2004.   The decline reflected the gain recognized$23 million more expense associated with tax credit investments partially offset by (1) equity in theearnings of Conrail Reorganization (see Note 2).of $6 million, (2) increased gains on sales of properties and investments of $6 million   and (3) higher interest income of $4 million.

 

In June 2004, NS purchased a 40.5%has membership interestinterests in a limited liability company (LLC)companies that ownsown and operatesoperate facilities that produce synthetic fuel from coal.   The production of synthetic fuel results in tax credits as well as expenses related to the investments.   The expenses are recorded as a component of "Other income - net," and the tax credits, as well as tax benefits related to the expenses, are reflected in the provision for income taxes.   

Provision for Income Taxes

 

The third-quarterfirst-quarter effective income tax rate was 25.8%30.0% in 2004,2005, compared with 31.5%32.8% last year.   For the first nine months, the effective rateThe decline was 28.9% in 2004, compared with 31.5% in 2003.   The declines for both periods were largely the result of increased tax credits from the new synthetic fuel-related investments andinvestments.   In 2004, the $53 million net noncash gain from the Conrail Reorganization.   Additionally, the 2003effective rate was reduced by thea favorable resolution of prior years'Section 29 alternative fuel tax audits.   credit issues and by NS' equity in Conrail's after-tax earnings.   As a result of the 2004 Conrail Corporate Reorganization, the 2005 effective income tax rate is no longer significantly affected by NS' equity in Conrail's after-tax earnings.

The synthetic-fuelconsolidated federal income tax returns for 2000 through 2003 are being audited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).   The IRS examination for the 2000 and 2001 years is expected to be completed in the next few months.

NS' interests in synthetic fuel credits are subject to reduction if the average price of oil for a year exceeds a certain amount as determined under the tax laws.   Given current oil market conditions, it is possible that these tax credits could be reduced for 2005.2005 or future years. Such a reduction in tax credits would be accompanied by a reduction in the expensesexpense included in "Other income - - net" related to the investmentsinvestment, although the net effect would be to reduce the projected returnsreturn on the investment.

 

 
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY

 

Cash provided by operating activities, NS' principal source of liquidity, was $1.2 billion in the first nine months of 2004, compared with $800$408 million in the first ninethree months of 2003.2005, compared with $258 million in the first three months of 2004.   The increase was primarilyimprovement reflected the result of the $400 million increase in income from railway operations.operations as well as the effects of the Conrail Corporate Reorganization (see Note 2).

 

Prior to the Conrail Reorganization,NS had working capital of $418 million at March 31, 2005 , compared with a significant portion of payments made to PRR (which are included in "Conrail rents and services" and, therefore, are a use of cash in "Cash provided by operating activities") was borrowed back from a PRR subsidiary and, therefore, was a source of cash in "Proceeds from borrowings."   NS' net cash flow from these borrowings amounted to $118 million in the first nine months of 2004 and $174 million for the same period of 2003.

NS' working capital deficit was $316 million at Sept. 30, 2004 , compared with $376of $234 million at Dec. 31, 20032004 ..   The improvement reflected anhigher cash provided by operating activities, as well as $194 million net increase in current assets (primarilylong-term borrowings.   NS expects that cash cash equivalents and accounts receivable) related to increased business volume.   This was offset in part by higher current maturities of long-term debt.   A working capital deficit is not unusual for NS, and the company expects to generate sufficienton hand combined with cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet its ongoing obligations.

NS currently has   This expectation is based on a view that the capability to increase the amount of accounts receivable being sold under its revolving sale program to meet its more immediate working capital needs.   Over the last twelve months, the amount of receivables NS could sell under this program ranged from $359 million to $428 million, and the amount of receivables sold ranged from zero to $30 million.   Moreover, NS haseconomy will continue at a $1 billion credit facility that it can borrow under or use to support commercial paper debt; however, reductions in its credit rating could limit NS' ability to access the commercial paper markets.   An early renewal of the credit facility was negotiated during the third quarter, and the new facility will expire in 2009.moderate growth rate through 2005.

 

Cash used for investing activities was $765$227 million in the first ninethree months of 2004,2005, compared with $578$193 million in the first ninethree months of 2003.2004.   The increase was principally the result of more capitalpurchases of short-term investments offset in part by lower property additions.   Capital expenditures ..

for the full year 2005 are expected to be at about the same level as 2004.   D uring the first quarter, NS hasmade additional commitments to purchase locomotives and other equipment in the fourth quarter in the amount2005, of approximately $160 million.   It$84 million (see Note 8).   Even with this increase in spending, it is anticipatedlikely that NS will make all of its 2004 capital expenditures with internally generated funds.   In addition, investing activities in 2005 reflect NS' investment in a membership interest in a limited liability company that owns and operates facilities that produce synthetic fuel from coal.  

 

Cash used forprovided by financing activities was $255$216 million in the first ninethree months of 2004,2005, compared with $248cash used of $242 million in the same period of 2003.   Proceeds from borrowings consisted entirely of loans2004.   The change resulted from the PRR subsidiaryissuance in both periodsMarch 2005 of $300 million aggregate principal amount of 6% Senior Notes due March 2105 (see Note 2)5).   Additionally, 2005 had lower debt repayments as compared with 2004.   NS' debt-to-total capitalization ratio was 49.5%48.2% at Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 , and 50.7%48.5% at Dec. 31, 20032004 ..

 

NS currently has in place and available a $1 billion, five-year credit agreement which provides for borrowing at prevailing rates and includes financial covenants.   There were no amounts outstanding under this facility at March 31, 2005 ..   NS also has in place a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 filed with the SEC in September 2004 with $700 million of available capacity.   NS does not intend to renew its accounts receivable securitization program.

As described in the registration statement on Form S-4 and related prospectuses filed with the SEC, NS has commenced offers to exchange existing notes for new notes and cash.   The purpose of the exchange offers is to improve NS' debt maturity profile.

OTHER MATTERS

Labor Agreements

 

Approximately 24,000, or about 85%, of NS' railroad employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions.  These agreements remain in effect until changed pursuant to the Railway Labor Act.  NS largely bargains in concert with other major railroads. Moratorium provisions in the labor agreements permitted NSgovern when the railroads and the unions tomay propose such changeslabor agreement changes.  Such proposals were made in late 1999; negotiations at1999 and, since that time, NS has reached agreements with almost all of the national level commenced shortly thereafter.   Agreements were subsequently negotiated with the Brotherhoodmajor rail labor organizations to settle that round of Maintenance of Way Employes, the United Transportation Union, the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers and Blacksmiths, the Transportation Communications International Union, the American Train Dispatchers Association, the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen.bargaining.  These agreements cover approximately 21,500 (or 90%)96% of NS contract employees.  The railroads and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers agreed to resolve their negotiations through arbitration and a decision is pending.   Agreements haveA 1999 bargaining round agreement has not yet been reached with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers,Machinists.   If mediation is concluded without an agreement, the Sheet Metal Workers International Association,next step would be either arbitration, or a Presidential Emergency Board or a strike.  On or after November 1, 2004 , the National Conference of Fireman and Oilers,railroads and the International Longshoreman Association.   Negotiations forrail labor unions served new proposals to begin the next roundbargaining round.   Industry issues include train crew staffing and employee contributions for health care benefits.  Negotiations on these proposals continue.   The outcome of bargaining will commence in late 2004.  the negotiations cannot be determined at this point.

 

Market Risks and Hedging Activities

 

NS uses derivative financial instruments to reduce in part, the risk of volatility in its diesel fuel costs and to manage its overall exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.

 

The intent of the diesel fuel hedging program has beenis to assist in the management of NS' aggregate risk exposure to fuel price fluctuations, which can significantly affect NS' operating margins and profitability, through the use of one or more types of derivative instruments.   Diesel fuel costs represented 10% of NS' operating expenses for the first quarter of 2005. The program provides that NS will not enter into any fuel hedges with a duration of more than 36 months, and that no more than 80% of NS' average monthly fuel consumption will be hedged for any month within any 36-month period.   After taking into account the effect of hedging, diesel fuel costs represented 7% of NS' operating expenses for the third quarter of 2004.

However, with fuel prices near historic highs and fuel surcharges being collected under certain tariffs and contracts, NS has not entered into additional hedges since May 2004 .   Consequently, the past pattern of entering into regular monthly swaps may not be indicative of future hedging activity.

 

As of Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 , through swap transactions, NS has hedged approximately 61%32% of expected 20042005 diesel fuel requirements for the remainder of the year, and 36% and 4% of expected requirements for 2005 and 2006, respectively.requirements. The effect of the hedges is to yield an average cost of 8482 cents per hedged gallon, including federal taxes and transportation.   A 10% decrease from currentin diesel fuel prices would reduce NS' asset related to the swaps by approximately $36$23 million as of Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 ..

 

NS manages its overall exposure to fluctuations in interest rates by issuing both fixed- and floating-rate debt instruments and by entering into interest-rate hedging transactions to achieve an appropriate mix within its debt portfolio.

 

As of Sept. 30, 2004At March 31, 2005 , NS' debt subject to interest rate fluctuations totaled $587$449 million.   A 1% increase in short-term interest rates would increase NS' total annual interest expense related to all its variable debt by approximately $6$4 million. Management considers it unlikely that interest rate fluctuations applicable to these instruments will result in a material adverse effect on NS' financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Some of NS' capital leases, which carry an average fixed rate of 7%, were effectively converted to variable rate obligations using interest rate swap agreements. On Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 , the average pay rate under these agreements was 2%3%, and the average receive rate was 7%. The effect of the swaps was to reduce interest expense by $1 million in the first quarter of 2005 and $3by $2 million in the third quartersfirst quarter of 2004 and 2003, respectively, and by $5 million and $7 million for the first nine months of 2004 and 2003, respectively.2004. A portion of the lease obligations is payable in Japanese yen. NS eliminated the associated exchange rate risk at the inception of each lease with a yen deposit sufficient to fund the yen-denominated obligation. Most of these deposits are held by foreign banks, primarily Japanese. As a result, NS is exposed to financial market risk relative to Japan .. Counterparties to the interest rate swaps and Japanese banks holding yen deposits are major financial institutions believed by management to be creditworthy.

 

Environmental Matters

 

NS is subject to various jurisdictions' environmental laws and regulations.   It is NS' policy to record a liability where such liability or loss is probable and its amount can be estimated reasonably.   Claims, if any, against third parties for recovery of cleanup costs incurred by NS are reflected as receivables (when collection is probable) in the balance sheet and are not netted against the associated NS liability.   Environmental engineers regularly participate in ongoing evaluations of all known sites and in determining any necessary adjustments to liability estimates.   NS also has established an Environmental Policy Council, composed of senior managers, to oversee and interpret its environmental policy.   For further information see Note 11.

 

NS' Consolidated Balance Sheets included liabilities for environmental exposures in the amount of $64 million at March 31, 2005 , and Dec. 31, 2004 , (of which $12 million was accounted for as a current liability in each period).   At March 31, 2005 , the liability represented NS' estimate of the probable cleanup and remediation costs based on available information at 206 known locations.   On that date, 15 sites accounted for $32 million of the liability, and no individual site was considered to be material.   NS anticipates that much of this liability will be paid out over five years; however, some costs will be paid out over a longer period.

At some of the 206 locations, certain NS subsidiaries, usually in conjunction with a number of other parties, have been identified as potentially responsible parties by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or similar state authorities under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, or comparable state statutes, which often impose joint and several liability for cleanup costs.

With respect to known environmental sites (whether identified by NS or by the EPA or comparable state authorities), estimates of NS' ultimate potential financial exposure for a given site or in the aggregate for all such sites are unavoidably imprecise because of the widely varying costs of currently available cleanup techniques, the likely development of new cleanup technologies, the difficulty of determining in advance the nature and full extent of contamination and each potential participant's share of any estimated loss (and that participant's ability to bear it), and evolving statutory and regulatory standards governing liability.

The risk of incurring environmental liability -- for acts and omissions, past, present and future -- is inherent in the railroad business.   Some of the commodities in NS' traffic mix, particularly those classified as hazardous materials, can pose special risks that NS and its subsidiaries work diligently to minimize.   In addition, several NS subsidiaries own, or have owned, land used as operating property, or which is leased or may have been leased and operated by others, or held for sale.   Because environmental problems that are latent or undisclosed may exist on these properties, there can be no assurance that NS will not incur environmental liabilities or costs with respect to one or more of them, the amount and materiality of which cannot be estimated reliably at this time.   Moreover, lawsuits and claims involving these and potentially other unidentified environmental sites and matters are likely to arise from time to time.   The resulting liabilities could have a significant effect on financial condition, results of operations or liquidity in a particular year or quarter.

However, based on an assessment of known facts and circumstances, management believes that it is unlikely that any known matters, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on NS' financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Surface Transportation Board's Oversight of Conrail

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In July 1998,December 2004, the STB approvedFinancial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised), Share-Based Payment.   This statement establishes standards for accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods or services, such as stock-based compensation plans.   NS had expected to adopt this standard as required in the "Conrail Transaction" wherebythird quarter; however, the assetsSEC in April 2005 issued a rule that allows companies to delay adoption, and as a result, NS expects to adopt this standard as required in the first quarter 2006. The statement applies to all awards granted after the effective date and to awards modified, repurchased, or cancelled after that date.   As the amount of Conrail were divded into allocated assets (assets transferredexpense to PRRbe recognized in future periods will depend on the levels of future grants, the effect of adoption of this statement cannot be predicted with certainty.   However, had NS adopted this statement in prior periods, the effect of adoption on net income and NYCearnings per share would have approximated the amounts shown in the pro forma information included in Note 1.

Proposed Legislation and operated by NSRRegulations on Safety and CSXT, respectively)Transportation of Hazardous Materials

Legislation introduced in Congress in early 2005 would give federal regulators increased authority to conduct investigations and Shared Assets Areas (assets retainedlevy substantial fines and operated by CRC for the benefitpenalties in connection with railroad accidents.   Federal regulators would also be required to prescribe new regulations governing railroads' transportation of NShazardous materials.   If enacted, such legislation and CSX).   In approving the Conrail Transaction in 1998, the STB had imposed numerous conditions to ensure that the acquisition of Conrail did not result in any competitive problems.regulations could impose significant additional costs on railroads including NS.   In addition, the STB established general oversight for 5 yearscertain local governments have sought to monitor annually the progress of implementation of the Conrail Transaction and the workings of the various conditions imposed and retained jurisdiction to impose additional conditions, if necessary, to address any harms caused by the Conrail Transaction.   On Oct. 20, 2004 , the STB issued its fifth and final decision arising out of its retention of general oversight jurisdiction.   This decision terminates all further reporting requirements by NS and CSX, with one exception:   that the existing operational monitoring reporting requirementsenact ordinances banning, or requiring disclosures with respect to, hazardous materials moving by rail within their borders.   If promulgated and upheld, such ordinances could require the Shared Assets Areas remain in place to providere-routing of hazardous materials shipments, with the STB with otherwise unavailable data about Shared Assets Areas operations.   In its decision, the STB also declinedpotential for significant additional costs and network inefficiencies.   Accordingly, NS will oppose efforts to impose any new requirements or constraintsunwarranted regulation in this area.

Inflation

In preparing financial statements, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles require the use of historical cost that disregards the effects of inflation on the replacement cost of property.   NS, CSX or Conrail and denied all requests for substantive relief by commenting parties.a capital-intensive company, has most of its capital invested in such assets.   The replacement cost of these assets, as well as the related depreciation expense, would be substantially greater than the amounts reported on the basis of historical cost.

 

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements that may be identified by the use of words like "believe," "expect," "anticipate" and "project."   Forward-looking statements reflect management's good-faith evaluation of information currently available.   However, such statements are dependent on and, therefore, can be influenced by, a number of external variables over which management has little or no control, including: domestic and international economic conditions; the business environment in industries that produce and consume rail freight; competition and consolidation within the transportation industry; fluctuation in prices of key materials, in particular diesel fuel; labor difficulties, including strikes and work stoppages; legislative and regulatory developments; changes in securities and capital markets; and natural events such as severe weather, floods and earthquakes.   Forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as, a guaranteeguaranty of future performance or results.   Nor will they necessarily prove to be accurate indications of the times at or by which any such performance or results will be achieved. As a result, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements. The CompanyNS undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements.

 

 


Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks.

 

The information required by this item is included in Part I, Item 2, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations" on page 2219 under the heading "Market Risks and Hedging Activities."

 

 

Item 4.   Controls and Procedures.

 

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

 

Norfolk Southern's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of NS' disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the[the "Exchange Act")] ) as of Sept. 30, 2004.March 31, 2005.   Based on such evaluation, such officers have concluded that, as of Sept. 30, 2004March 31, 2005 , NS' disclosure controls and procedures are effective in alerting them on a timely basis to material information relating to NS (including its consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in NS' periodic filings under the Exchange Act.

 

(b) Changes in Internal Controls.

 

During the first nine monthsquarter of 2004,2005, management has not identified any changes in NS' internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, NS' internal controls over financial reporting.

 

 

PART II.   OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 2.       Changes inUnregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

ISSUER REPURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Period

(a) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased

(b) Average Price Paid per Share (or Unit)

(c) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs

(d) Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) that may yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs

 

July 1-31, 2004

- --

- --

- --

- --

 

Aug. 1-31, 2004

    4,490 (1)

$27.21

- --

- --

 

Sept. 1-30, 2004

    1,782 (1)

$28.32

- --

- --

 

Total

    6,272

$27.52

 

 

Period

(a) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased

(b) Average Price Paid per Share (or Unit)

(c) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs

(d) Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) that may yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs

 

Jan. 1-31, 2005

  5,643 (1)

$36.03

- --

- --

 

Feb. 1-28, 2005

20,983(1)

$35.78

- --

- --

 

March 1-31, 2005

8,476(1)

$37.49

- --

- --

 

Total

35,102    

$36.23

 

 

 

(1)                 Shares tendered by employees in connection with the exercise of stock options under the Long-Term Incentive Plan.

 


Item 6.   Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

Exhibits:

  (a)3(i)

Exhibits:The Restated Articles of Incorporation of Norfolk Southern Corporation are incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(i) to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 10-K filed on March 5, 2001 ..

 

3(ii)

The Bylaws of Norfolk Southern Corporation, as amended Jan. 25, 2005, are incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed on Jan. 25, 2005.

 

 

 

4(k)4(n)

EighthNinth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 17, 2004,March 11, 2005 , between Norfolk Southern Corporation and U.S. Bank Trust National Association, as Trustee, relating to the issuance of 5.257% Notes due 2014 ("Securities")notes in the aggregate principal amount of $441.5$300 million, in connection with Norfolk Southern Corporation's offer to exchange the Securities and cash for up to $400 million of its outstanding 7.350% Notes due 2007, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed on September 23, 2004.  

4(l)

The Indenture, dated August 27, 2004 , among PRR Newco, Inc., as Issuer, and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, as Guarantor, and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, is filed herewith.

  4(m)

The First Supplemental Indenture, dated August 27, 2004 , among PRR Newco, Inc., as Issuer, and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, as Guarantor, and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, related to the issuance of notes in the principal amount of approximately $451.8 million, is filed herewith.  

  10(ee)

Distribution Agreement, dated as of July 26, 2004, by and among CSX Corporation, CSX Transportation, Inc., CSX Rail Holding Corporation, CSX Northeast Holding Corporation, Norfolk Southern Corporation, Norfolk Southern Railway Company, CRR Holdings LLC, Green Acquisition Corp., Conrail Inc., Consolidated Rail Corporation, New York Central Lines LLC, Pennsylvania Lines LLC, NYC Newco, Inc. and PRR Newco, Inc., is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed on September 2, 2004.  

  10(ff)

Amendment No. 5 to the Transaction Agreement, dated as of August 27, 2004, by and among CSX Corporation, CSX Transportation, Inc., Norfolk Southern Corporation, Norfolk Southern Railway Company, CRR Holdings LLC, Conrail Inc. and Consolidated Rail Corporation, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed on September 2, 2004.  

  10(gg)

Tax Allocation Agreement, dated as of August 27, 2004 , by and among Green Acquisition Corp., Conrail Inc., Consolidated Rail Corporation, New York Central Lines LLC and Pennsylvania Lines LLC, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed on September 2, 2004March 15, 2005 ..   

 

 

  10(hh)10(ff)

OperatingForm of 2005 Incentive Stock Option and Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, Termination Agreement, dated as of August 27, 2004 , between Pennsylvania Lines LLC and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed on September 2, 2004 ..  

  10(ii)

Credit Agreement dated as of August 31, 2004 , betweenamended, under the Norfolk Southern Corporation and various lenders,Long-Term Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's Form 8-K/A8-K filed on SeptemberJan. 7, 2004 ..2005.

10(gg)

Form of 2005 Restricted Share Agreement, as amended, under the Norfolk Southern Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's form 8-K filed on Jan. 7, 2005.

10(hh)

Form of 2005 Performance Share Unit Award, as amended, under the Norfolk Southern Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's form 8-K filed on Jan. 7, 2005.

10(ii)

Form of 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Agreement, as amended, under the Norfolk Southern Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99 to Norfolk Southern Corporation's form 8-K filed on Jan. 7, 2005.

 

 

15

Letter regarding unaudited interim financial information.

 

 

31

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications

 

 

32

Section 1350 Certifications


(b)

Reports on Form 8-K:

A report on Form 8-K was filed on September 23, 2004, advising that Norfolk Southern Corporation issued $441.5 million aggregate principal amount of its 5.257% Notes due 2014 (the "Securities") in connection with Norfolk Southern Corporation's offer to exchange the Securities and cash for up to $400 million of its outstanding 7.350% Notes due 2007, and attaching as an exhibit the Eighth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 17, 2004, between Norfolk Southern Corporation and U.S. Bank Trust National Association as Trustee.  

A report on Form 8-K was filed on September 7, 2004, advising that Norfolk Southern Corporation entered into an agreement establishing a 5-year, $1 billion, unsecured revolving credit facility under which Norfolk Southern Corporation can borrow for general corporate purposes, including to support commercial paper debt, and attaching as an exhibit the Credit Agreement dated as of August 31, 2004, between Norfolk Southern Corporation and various lenders.

A report on Form 8-K/A was filed on September 7, 2004 , amending certain terms of the report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2004 , and attaching as an exhibit the Credit Agreement dated as of August 31, 2004 ..

A report on Form 8-K was filed on September 2, 2004, advising that Norfolk Southern Railway Company and its parent Norfolk Southern Corporation entered into two material definitive agreements, terminated a material definitive agreement and acquired assets, all in connection with the restructuring of Conrail, and attaching as an exhibit (1) the Distribution Agreement, dated as of July 26, 2004, by and among CSX Corporation, CSX Transportation, Inc., CSX Rail Holding Corporation, CSX Northeast Holding Corporation, Norfolk Southern Corporation, Norfolk Southern Railway Company, CRR Holdings LLC, Green Acquisition Corp., Conrail Inc., Consolidated Rail Corporation, New York Central Lines LLC, Pennsylvania Lines LLC, NYC Newco, Inc. and PRR Newco, Inc.; (2) Amendment No. 5 to the Transaction Agreement, dated as of August 27, 2004, by and among CSX Corporation, CSX Transportation, Inc., Norfolk Southern Corporation, Norfolk Southern Railway Company, CRR Holdings LLC, Conrail Inc. and Consolidated Rail Corporation; (3) Tax Allocation Agreement, dated as of August 27, 2004, by and among Green Acquisition Corp., Conrail Inc., Consolidated Rail Corporation, New York Central Lines LLC, Pennsylvania Lines LLC; (4) Operating Agreement Termination Agreement, dated as of August 27, 2004, between Pennsylvania Lines LLC and Norfolk Southern Railway Company; and (5) Norfolk Southern Railway Company and CSX Transportation, Inc. Joint Press Release, dated August 30, 2004.

A report on Form 8-K was filed on August 17, 2004, advising that Norfolk Southern Corporation commenced an offer to exchange new unsecured Norfolk Southern debt securities for certain of its existing unsecured debt securities, and attaching as an exhibit the related press release.  

A report on Form 8-K was furnished on July 28, 2004, reporting second quarter 2004 results, and attaching as an exhibit the related press release.  

 


SIGNATURES

 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION

 

 

Registrant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

Oct. 28, 2004April 29, 2005

/s/ Dezora M. Martin

 

 

 

Dezora M. Martin

 

 

Corporate Secretary (Signature)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

Oct. 28, 2004April 29, 2005

/s/ Marta R. Stewart

 

 

 

Marta R. Stewart

 

 

Vice President and Controller

 

 

(Principal Accounting Officer) (Signature)

 

 

Exhibit Index

 

 

Electronic

 

 

Submission

 

 

Exhibit

 

 

Number

Description

 

 

 

 

4(l)

The Indenture, dated August 27, 2004 , among PRR Newco, Inc., as Issuer, and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, as Guarantor, and The Bank of New York, as Trustee.

4(m)

The First Supplemental Indenture, dated August 27, 2004 , among PRR Newco, Inc., as Issuer, and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, as Guarantor, and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, related to the issuance of notes in the principal amount of approximately $451.8 million.

15

Letter regarding unaudited interim financial information.information

 

 

 

 

31

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications

 

 

 

 

32

Section 1350 Certifications