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, 2008MARCH 31, 2009

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

[  ]

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

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Virginia

52-1188014

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)

(IRS Employer Identification No.)

 

 

Three Commercial Place

 

Norfolk, Virginia

23510-2191

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

 

 

(757) 629-2680

(Registrant'sRegistrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

 

No Change

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if 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.                                                                                                                            Yes [X]   No [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes [    ]   No [    ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.   See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer [X]                                                                                                     Accelerated filer [ ]     

Non-accelerated filer    [    ] (Do not check if smaller reporting company)          Smaller reporting company [ ]

 

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).     Yes [   ] No [X]

 

APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY

PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PRECEDING FIVE YEARS

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.    Yes [   ] No [   ]

APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

                       Class

   Outstanding at Sept. 30, 2008March 31, 2009

Common Stock (par($1.00 par value $1.00)per share)

   370,279,291367,037,849 (excluding 20,606,67420,548,963 shares held by the

   registrant’s consolidated subsidiaries)


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES (NS)

 

 


 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

 

Part I.

Financial Information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Income

 

 

 

Three and Nine Months Ended Sept. 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

 

 

As of Sept. 30,March 31, 2009, and December 31, 2008 and Dec. 31, 2007

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

 

 

NineThree Months Ended Sept. 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007

5

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

1413

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and

 

 

 

Results of Operations

1514

 

 

 

 

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

2321

 

 

 

 

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

2321

 

 

 

 

 Part II.

Other Information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

2422

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

2422

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 2523

 

 

 

 

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

2523

 

 

 

 

 Signatures

 

 2624

 

 

 

Exhibit Index

 

2725

2


PART I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.   Financial Statements.Statements

 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESNorfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Income

(Unaudited)

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2008

2007

2008

2007

2009

2008

 

($ in millions, except per share amounts)

($ in millions,

except earnings per share)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Railway operating revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1,943

$

2,500

 

Coal

$

876

$

578 

$

2,313

$

1,714 

General merchandise

 

1,458

 

1,291 

 

4,268

 

3,839 

Intermodal

 

560

 

484 

 

1,578

 

1,425 

Total railway operating revenues

 

2,894

 

2,353 

 

8,159

 

6,978 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Railway operating expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Railway operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

Compensation and benefits

 

708

 

619 

 

2,075

 

1,929 

 

639

 

705

 

Purchased services and rents

 

419

 

391 

 

1,194

 

1,155 

 

355

 

375

 

Fuel

 

474

 

289 

 

1,369

 

816 

 

159

 

404

 

Depreciation

 

201

 

194 

 

598

 

578 

 

207

 

198

 

Materials and other

 

198

 

179 

 

652

 

601 

 

200

 

240

 

Total railway operating expenses

 

2,000

 

 1,672 

 

5,888

 

5,079 

 

1,560

 

1,922

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from railway operations

 

894

 

681 

 

2,271

 

1,899 

 

383

 

578

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income – net

 

39

 

31 

 

92

 

59 

 

17

 

7

 

Interest expense on debt

 

111

 

107 

 

332

 

333 

 

117

 

109

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

822

 

605 

 

2,031

 

1,625 

 

283

 

476

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provision for income taxes

 

302

 

219 

 

767

 

560 

 

106

 

185

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

520

$

386 

$

1,264

$

1,065 

$

177

$

291

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per share amounts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

$

1.39

$

0.99 

$

3.37

$

2.71 

$

0.48

$

0.77

 

Diluted

$

1.37

$

0.97 

$

3.30

$

2.66 

$

0.47

$

0.76

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dividends

$

0.32

$

0.26 

$

0.90

$

0.70 

$

0.34

$

0.29

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESNorfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Unaudited)

 

March 31,

December 31,

 

2009

2008

 

($ in millions)

Assets

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

  Cash and cash equivalents

$

884 

$

618 

  Accounts receivable – net

 

831 

 

870 

  Materials and supplies

 

191 

 

194 

  Deferred income taxes

 

161 

 

149 

  Other current assets

 

127 

 

168 

    Total current assets

 

2,194 

 

1,999 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments

 

1,806 

 

1,779 

Properties less accumulated depreciation

 

22,292 

 

22,247 

Other assets

 

254 

 

272 

 

     Total assets

 

$

26,546 

 

$

 

26,297 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

  Accounts payable

$

952 

$

1,140 

  Income and other taxes

 

311 

 

261 

  Other current liabilities

 

287 

 

220 

  Current maturities of long-term debt

 

468 

 

484 

    Total current liabilities

 

2,018 

 

2,105 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

6,467 

 

6,183 

Other liabilities

 

1,945 

 

2,030 

Deferred income taxes

 

6,406 

 

6,372 

    Total liabilities

 

16,836 

 

16,690 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

    authorized; outstanding 367,037,849 and 366,233,106 shares,

 

 

 

 

    respectively, net of treasury shares

 

369 

 

368 

  Additional paid-in capital

 

1,723 

 

1,680 

  Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(933)

 

(942)

  Retained income

 

8,551 

 

8,501 

    Total stockholders’ equity

 

9,710 

 

9,607 

 

 

 

 

 

    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

26,546 

$

26,297 

 

 

Sept. 30,

Dec. 31,

 

2008

2007

 

($ in millions)

Assets

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

   Cash and cash equivalents

$

557 

$

206 

   Accounts receivable – net

 

1,076 

 

942 

   Materials and supplies

 

210 

 

176 

   Deferred income taxes

 

172 

 

190 

   Other current assets

 

67 

 

161 

      Total current assets

 

2,082 

 

1,675 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments

 

1,827 

 

1,974 

Properties less accumulated depreciation

 

22,032 

 

21,583 

Other assets

 

776 

 

912 

 

 

 

 

 

       Total assets

$

26,717 

$

26,144 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and stockholders' equity

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

   Accounts payable

$

1,225 

$

1,139 

   Income and other taxes

 

297 

 

203 

   Other current liabilities

 

293 

 

237 

   Current maturities of long-term debt

 

488 

 

369 

      Total current liabilities

 

2,303 

 

1,948 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

5,983 

 

5,999 

Other liabilities

 

1,783 

 

2,039 

Deferred income taxes

 

6,602 

 

6,431 

      Total liabilities

 

16,671 

 

16,417 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

      shares authorized; outstanding 370,279,291 and

 

 

 

 

      379,297,891 shares, respectively, net of treasury shares

 

371 

 

380 

   Additional paid-in capital

 

1,689 

 

1,466 

   Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(389)

 

(399)

   Retained income

 

8,375 

 

8,280 

      Total stockholders' equity

 

10,046 

 

9,727 

 

 

 

 

 

      Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

26,717 

$

26,144 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESNorfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

 

Nine Months Ended

Sept. 30,

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2008

2007

2009

2008

($ in millions)

($ in millions)

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

1,264 

$

1,065 

$

177 

$

291 

Reconciliation of net income to net cash

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

606 

 

587 

 

209 

 

200 

Deferred income taxes

 

181 

 

19 

 

16 

 

25 

Gains on properties and investments

 

(24)

 

(36)

Gains and losses on properties and investments

 

(2)

 

(5)

Changes in assets and liabilities affecting operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

63 

 

(21)

 

39 

 

(37)

Materials and supplies

 

(34)

 

(22)

 

 

(18)

Other current assets

 

93 

 

80 

 

35 

 

30 

Current liabilities other than debt

 

(80)

 

67 

 

(107)

 

75 

Other – net

 

 

72 

 

(16)

 

43 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

2,075 

 

1,811 

 

354 

 

604 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property additions

 

(1,104)

 

(895)

 

(243)

 

(304)

Property sales and other transactions

 

74 

 

105 

 

 

Investments, including short-term

 

(34)

 

(568)

Investment sales and other transactions

 

254 

 

758 

 

(2)

 

54 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(810)

 

(600)

 

(244)

 

(247)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dividends

 

(338)

 

(276)

 

(125)

 

(109)

Common stock issued – net

 

224 

 

166 

 

 

71 

Purchase and retirement of common stock

 

(899)

 

(769)

 

- -- 

 

(276)

Proceeds from borrowings

 

1,225 

 

- -- 

 

500 

 

525 

Debt repayments

 

(1,126)

 

(454)

 

(225)

 

(410)

Net cash used in financing activities

 

(914)

 

(1,333)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

156 

 

(199)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

351 

 

(122)

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

266 

 

158 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At beginning of year

 

206 

 

527 

 

618 

 

206 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At end of period

$

557 

$

405 

$

884 

$

364 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the period for:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest (net of amounts capitalized)

$

254 

$

279 

$

49 

$

54 

Income taxes (net of refunds)

$

401 

$

386 

$

23 

$

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESNorfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited interim financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary to present fairly Norfolk Southern Corporation (Norfolk Southern) and subsidiaries'subsidiaries’ (collectively, NS) financial condition as of Sept. 30,March 31, 2009, and December 31, 2008, and its results of operations for the three and nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 and 2007, and its cash flows for the ninethree months ended Sept. 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008, and 2007, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

These Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes included in NS’ latest Annual Report on Form 10‑K.

 

1.   Stock-based Compensation

 

In the first quarter of 2008,2009, a committee of non-employee directors of Norfolk Southern’s Board of Directors granted stock options, restricted stock units and performance share units (PSUs) pursuant to the Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) and granted stock options pursuant to the Thoroughbred Stock Option Plan (TSOP) as discussed below.   Stock-based compensation expense was $23$15 million during the thirdfirst quarter of 20082009 and $14$65 million during the same period of 2007.   For the first nine months of 2008 and 2007, stock-based compensation expense was $118 million and $82 million, respectively.2008.   The total tax effect recognized in income in relation to stock-based compensation were benefitswas a net benefit of $8$3 million and $5$22 million for the quarters ended Sept. 30,March 31, 2009 and 2008, and 2007, respectively, and benefits of $40 million and $27 million for the first nine months of 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

Stock Options

 

In the first quarter of 2008, 1,162,6002009, 1,209,700 options were granted under the LTIP and 250,000251,200 options were granted under the TSOP.   In each case, the grant price was $50.74,$38.71, which was the average fair market value of Norfolk Southern Corporation common stock (Common Stock) on the effective date of grant.   Thethe grant, and the options have a term of ten years butyears.   The options granted under the LTIP and TSOP in 2009 may not be exercised prior to the fourth and third anniversaryanniversaries of the date of grant.grant, respectively.   Holders of the options granted under the LTIP who remain actively employed receive cash dividend equivalent payments for fivefour years in an amount equal to the regular quarterly dividends paid on Common Stock.

 

The fair value of each option award in 20082009 was measured on the date of grant using a lattice-based option valuation model.   Expected volatilities are based on implied volatilities from traded options on Common Stock and historical volatility of Common Stock.   NS uses historical data to estimate option exercises and employee terminations within the valuation model.   The average expected option life is derived from the output of the valuation model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding.   The average risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.   For options granted that include dividend equivalent payments, a dividend yield of zero was used.   The assumptions for the 20082009 LTIP grant are shown in the following table:

 

 

20082009

 

 

Expected volatility range

25%28% - 32%53%

Average expected volatility

32%43%

Average expected option life

5.96.5 years

Average risk-free interest rate

3.68%2.87%

Per-share grant-date fair value

$19.3218.18

 

The grant-date fair value of the 20082009 TSOP grant was $16.29$15.41 using the same assumptions as the 20082009 LTIP grant, except a dividend yield of 2.29%2.40% was used because no dividend equivalent payments are made on these options and the average expected option life was 8.09.2 years.

 

For the first ninethree months of 2008,2009, options relating to 5,557,576283,961 shares were exercised, yielding $132$7 million of cash proceeds and $73$2 million of tax benefitsbenefit recognized as additional paid-in capital.   For the first ninethree months of 2007,2008, option exercises resulted in $114$40 million of cash proceeds and $52$15 million of tax benefits.

 

Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Shares

 

There were 299,950319,550 restricted stock units granted in 2008,2009, with an average grant-date fair value of $50.47$38.71 and a five-year restriction period.   The restricted stock units granted in 20082009 will be settled through the issuance of shares of Common Stock.   There were no restricted shares granted in 2008.2009.

During the first quarter of 2009, 318,950 restricted stock units were earned and paid out in cash with a weighted average fair value of $36.50.   Also earned and distributed were 318,950 restricted shares with a weighted-average grant-date fair value of $49.61.   The total related tax expense recognized as additional paid-in capital was $1 million in the first quarter of 2009.

 

Performance Share Units

 

PSUs provide for awards based on achievement of certain predetermined corporate performance goals at the end of a three-year cycle.   ThereDuring the first quarter of 2009, there were 1,162,6001,209,700 PSUs granted with a grant-date fair value of $50.47 during$38.71.   The PSUs granted in 2009 will be paid in the first quarterform of 2008.   One-halfshares; however, one-half of any previously granted PSUs earned will be paid in the form of shares of Common Stock, with the other half to be paid in cash.

 

During the first quarter of 2009, 983,965 PSUs were earned and paid out, one-half in shares of Common Stock, and one-half in cash.   These PSUs had a grant-date fair value of $49.43 per unit and a fair value at pay out of $38.71 per unit.   The total related tax expense recognized as additional paid-in capital was $2 million for the first quarter of 2009.

For the first ninethree months of 2008, 1,013,999 PSUs were earned and paid out, one-half in shares of Common Stock and one-half in cash.   These PSUs had a grant-date fair value of $34.10 per unit and a fair value at pay out of $50.47 per unit.   The total related tax benefit recognized in additional paid-in capital was $2 million forin the first nine monthsquarter of 2008.

 

2.  Income Taxes

 

InThere have been no material changes to the third quarter of 2008, NS’ balance of unrecognized tax benefits decreased $28 million to $134 million primarily due toreported at December 31, 2008.  NS anticipates that the IRS will complete its examination of NS’ 2006 and 2007 federal income tax returns by the end of 2009.   NS does not expect that the resolution of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) examination of NS’ 2004 and 2005 federal income tax returns.   Of the $134 million unrecognized tax benefits remaining, $54 million would affect the effective tax rate if recognized.   NS’ resolution of the 2004 and 2005 examination did notwill have a material effect on income tax expense.   NS’ consolidated federal income tax returns for 2006 and 2007 are being audited by the IRS.

Interest expense related to the overpayment and underpaymentits financial position, results of income taxes, which is included in “Other income – net,” was reduced by $11 million during the third quarter of 2008 and $21 million for the first nine months of 2008.   The decrease for the quarter was primarily due to the resolution of the 2004 and 2005 IRS examination, while the first nine months also reflected the second quarter resolutions of certain refund claims submitted to the IRS and NS’ appeal of the 2002 and 2003 tax years.  operations, or liquidity.

 

3.   Earnings Per Share

 

The following tables set forth the calculationcalculations of basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

March 31,

2008

2007

2008

2007

2009

2008

($ in millions except per share, shares in millions)

($ in millions except per share,

shares in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income available to common stockholders

$

518

$

384

$

1,260

$

1,061

$

175

$

289

Weighted-average shares outstanding

 

372.5

 

389.0

 

374.4

 

392.3

 

366.2

 

375.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings per share

$

1.39

$

0.99

$

3.37

$

2.71

$

0.48

$

0.77

 

IncomeIn the first quarter of 2009, NS adopted the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board Staff Position (FSP) No. 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions are Participating Securities,” which requires the treatment of unvested stock options receiving dividend equivalents as participating securities in computing earnings per share under the two-class method.   NS has retrospectively applied the provisions of this FSP and accordingly, income available to common stockholders for both 2009 and 2008 reflects a $2 million reduction from net income for the after-tax effect of dividend equivalent payments made to holders of vested stock options as follows:options.

 

Three Months Ended

 

March 31,



 

2009

2008

 

($ in millions except per share,

shares in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

   Income available to common stockholders

$

175

$

291

   Weighted-average shares outstanding per above

 

366.2

 

375.7

   Dilutive effect of outstanding options and

 

 

 

 

     share-settled awards (as determined by the

 

 

 

 

     application of the two-class or treasury stock

 

 

 

 

     method, as appropriate)

 

4.9

 

8.2

   Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding

 

371.1

 

383.9

            Diluted earnings per share

$

0.47

$

0.76

As required under the provisions of FSP No. 03-6-1, diluted earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 2009, was calculated under the more dilutive two-class method (as compared to the treasury stock method) and accordingly, income available to common stockholders for 2009 reflects a $2 million in the third quarter of 2008 and 2007, and $4 millionreduction from net income for the first nine months of 2008 and 2007.

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

 

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

 

2008

2007

2008

2007

 

($ in millions except per share, shares in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Income available to common stockholders

$

520

$

386

1,264

1,065 

   Weighted-average shares outstanding per above

 

372.5

 

389.0

 

374.4

 

392.3 

   Dilutive effect of outstanding options, PSUs and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     restricted shares (as determined by the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     application of the treasury stock method)

 

8.0

 

8.4

 

8.2

 

8.2 

   Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding

 

380.5

 

397.4

 

382.6

 

400.5 

            Diluted earnings per share

$

1.37

$

0.97

3.30

2.66 

dividend equivalent payments.   The diluted calculations exclude options having exercise prices exceeding the average market price of Common Stock as follows:   none5.6 million in the third, second2009 and first quarters of 2008 and 2007.zero in 2008.

 

4.   Stockholders’ Equity

 

Common Stockstock is reported net of shares held by consolidated subsidiaries (treasury shares) of Norfolk Southern.   TreasurySouthern, which at March 31, 2009, and December 31, 2008, amounted to 20,548,963 and 20,579,088 shares, at Sept. 30, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2007, totaled 20,606,674 and 20,683,686, respectively, with a cost of $20$19 million atfor both Sept. 30, 2008 and Dec. 31, 2007.periods.

 

5.   Share5 ..   Stock Repurchase Program

 

In March 2007, Norfolk Southern’sNS’ Board of Directors amended NS’ share repurchase program, increasing the authorized amount of share repurchases from 50 million to 75 million shares and shortening the term of the program from 2015 to 2010.   The timing and volume of purchases is guided by management’s assessment of market conditions and other pertinent facts.   Near-termAny near-term purchases under the program are expected to be made with internally generated cash or proceeds from borrowings.   NSThere were no shares repurchased and retired 15.2 million and 15.1 million shares of its Common Stock under this program in the first ninequarter of 2009.   NS repurchased and retired 5.6 million shares in the first three months of 2008 and 2007, respectively, at a cost of $899 million and $769 million for each of those periods, respectively.$276 million.   Since inception of thethis program in 2006, NS has repurchased and retired 60.564.7 million shares of common stockCommon Stock at a total cost of $3.1$3.3 billion.

6.   Investment in Conrail

 

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’ investment in Conrail was $922$877 million at Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, and $899$868 million at Dec.December 31, 2007.2008.

 

CRC owns and operates certain properties (the Shared Assets Areas) for the joint and exclusive benefit of Norfolk Southern Railway Company (NSR) and CSX Transportation, Inc. (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.   "Purchased“Purchased services and rents"rents” and “Fuel” include expenses for amounts due to CRC for operationthe use of the Shared Assets Areas totaling $34$31 million in the thirdfirst quarter of 20082009 and $30$32 million in the thirdfirst quarter of 2007, and $98 million and $94 million, respectively, for the first nine months of 2008 and 2007.2008.   NS’ equity in the earnings of Conrail, net of amortization, included in “Other income – net” was $8$9 million and $10$8 million in the thirdfirst quarters of 20082009 and 2007, respectively, and $23 million and $21 million for the first nine months of 2008, and 2007, respectively.

 

“Accounts payable” includes $76$92 million at Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, and $78$82 million at Dec.December 31, 2007,2008, due to Conrail for the operation of the Shared Assets Areas.   In addition, “Other liabilities” includes $133 million at both Sept. 30,March 31, 2009, and December 31, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2007, infor long-term advances from Conrail, maturing 2035, that bear interest at an average rate of 4.4%.

 

7.   Long-term Debt

 

In the secondfirst quarter of 2008,2009, NS received $100repaid $200 million under its accounts receivable securitization facility.   At Sept. 30,March 31, 2009, and December 31, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2007, the amounts outstanding under the facility were $100 million at(at an average variable interest rate of 2.87%1.74%) and $250$300 million at(at an average variable interest rate of 5.57%3.01%), respectively.   The amount of receivables included in “Accounts receivable – net” serving as collateral for these borrowings was $919 million and $778 million, respectively.   In October 2008, NS renewed and amended its accounts receivable securitization facility, with a new 364-day term to run until October 2009.  

 

During the second quarter of 2008, $200In January 2009 NS issued $500 million of commercial paper matured, and was refinanced as part of a private offering, under which NS issued and sold $600 million in debt securitiesunsecured notes at 5.75% due 2018.in 2016 in a private offering.   The net proceeds from the offering were approximately $494 million after deducting the purchase discount and expenses.   NS subsequently exchanged substantially all ofagreed to exchange these unregistered securities with essentially identical securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933.

 

NS has authority from its board of directors to issue an additional $1 billion of debt or equity securities through public or private sale.   During the first quarter of 2009, NS filed a Form S-3 automatic shelf registration statement for well-known seasoned issuers under which up to $1 billion could be issued under this authority.

8.   Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits

 

Norfolk Southern and certain subsidiaries have both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans covering principally salaried employees.   Norfolk Southern 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, co-payments, Medicare payments and, in some cases, coverage provided under other group insurance policies.

 

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Cost Components

 

Three months ended Sept. 30,

Three months ended March 31,

2008

2007

2008

2007

2009

2008

2009

2008

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

($ in millions)

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

Interest cost

 

25 

 

23 

 

13 

 

11 

 

25 

 

25 

 

14 

 

12 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(43)

 

(42)

 

(4)

 

(2)

 

(39)

 

(43)

 

(4)

 

(2)

Amortization of prior service cost (benefit)

 

 

 

(2)

 

(2)

 

 

- -- 

 

- -- 

 

(2)

Amortization of net losses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (benefit) cost

$

(10)

$

(10)

$

17 

$

19 

$

- -- 

$

(10)

$

23 

$

21 

 


 

Nine months ended Sept. 30,

 

2008

2007

2008

2007

 

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

 

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

$

18 

$

18 

$

12 

$

16 

Interest cost

 

75 

 

69 

 

38 

 

34 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(129)

 

(126)

 

(11)

 

(8)

Amortization of prior service cost (benefit)

 

 

 

(7)

 

(6)

Amortization of net losses

 

 

 

19 

 

21 

       Net (benefit) cost

$

(29)

$

(30)

$

51 

$

57 

The estimated amortization of certain items from accumulated comprehensive income (loss) into periodic net (benefit) cost is as follows:

 

Nine Months

Fourth

Year

 

Ended

Quarter of

Ending

 

Sept. 30, 2008

2008

Dec. 31, 2008

 

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Defined benefit pension plans:

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Prior service cost

$

$

$

   Estimated net losses

$

$

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Defined benefit post retirement plans:

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Prior service benefit

$

(7)

$

(1)

$

(8)

   Estimated net losses

$

19 

$

$

25 

9.  Comprehensive Income

 

NS'NS’ total comprehensive income was as follows:

 

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

Three Months Ended

 

Sept. 30,

Sept. 30,

March 31,

 

2008

2007

2008

2007

2009

2008

 

($ in millions)

($ in millions)

 

 

Net income

$

520

$

386

$

1,264

$

1,065

$

177

$

291

 

Other comprehensive income

 

3

 

4

 

10

 

16

 

9

 

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income

$

523

$

390

$

1,274

$

1,081

$

186

$

295

 

 

 

“Other comprehensive income" in 20082009 and 20072008 reflects primarily, net of tax, the amortization of the actuarial net losses and prior service costs (benefits) for the pension and other postretirement benefit plans and unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities.

 

10.   Commitments and Contingencies

 

Lawsuits

 

Norfolk Southern and/or 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'smanagement’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

 

Casualty claims include employee personal injury and occupational claims as well as third-party claims, all exclusive of legal costs.   To aid in valuing its personal injury liability and determining the amount to accrue with respect to such claims during the year, NS’ management utilizes studies prepared by an independent consulting actuarial firm.   Job-related accidental injury and occupational claims are subject to 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 variability inherent in this system could result in actual costs being different from the liability recorded.   While the ultimate amount of claims incurred is dependent on future developments, in management’s opinion, the recorded liability 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 April 2008, NS settled the lawsuit brought by Avondale Mills for claims associated with the Jan.January 6, 2005, derailment in Graniteville, SC.  A portion of the settlement was not reimbursed by insurance and was included in first quarter 2008 expenses.  The total liability related to the derailment 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 the unreimbursed portion and NS’ self-insured retention, including NS’ response costs and legal fees.  The Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect current and long-term receivables for estimated recoveries from NS’ insurance carriers.   On July 1, 2008, NS filed a demand foris engaged in arbitration againstwith one of its insurance carriers that failed to respond to an insurance claim submitted by NS.  Although the arbitral tribunal has been appointed, the carrier has not yet filed its grounds of defense.   However, it is likely that all or part of the recorded recovery attributable to such carrier ($100 million) will be contested.   NS believes these expenses are covered by the insurance policy and that recovery of anythe contested amount is probable, in that ifNS expects the carrier contests payment an arbitrator wouldwill determine the settlement amounts to be reasonable and that the insurer’s refusal to consent to and to fund the settlement was a breach of contract.   Accordingly, NS has recorded the full recovery attributable to such carrier ($100 million).   In October 2008, another of NS’ insurance carriers provided the preliminary findings of its review of NS’ reimbursement request and reported that it may dispute a portion of that request.   NS has initiated arbitration against the carrier and believes that all expenses contained in the reimbursement request are covered by the insurance policy and that recovery is probable.

 

Employee personal injury claims – The largest component of casualties and other claims expense is employee personal injury costs.   The independent 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 quarterly based upon management’s assessment and the results of the study.   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 differvary from the estimated liability recorded.

 

Occupational claims – Occupational claims (including asbestosis and other respiratory diseases, as well as conditions allegedly related to repetitive motion) are often not caused by a specific accident or event but rather allegedly 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 independent 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 independent 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 quarterly based upon management’s assessment and the results of the study.   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 become 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 independent 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 based upon management’s assessment and the results of the study.   Given the inherent uncertainty in regard to the ultimate outcome of third-party claims, it is possible that the actual loss may differ from the estimated liability recorded.

 

Environmental Matters

 

NS is subject to various jurisdictions'jurisdictions’ environmental laws and regulations.   It is NS'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) onin the balance sheetConsolidated Balance Sheets 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 an Environmental Policy Council, composed of senior managers, to oversee and interpret its environmental policy.

 

NS'NS’ Consolidated Balance Sheets include liabilities for environmental exposures in the amount of $39$40 million at Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, and $46$42 million at Dec.December 31, 20072008 (of which $12 million is classified as a current liability at the end of each period).   At Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, the liability represents NS'NS’ estimate of the probable cleanup and remediation costs based on available information at 148147 known locations.   As of that date, 1113 sites accounted for $19$23 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 3029 locations, one or more Norfolk Southern 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'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'sparticipant’s share of any estimated loss (and that participant'sparticipant’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'NS’ traffic mix, particularly those classified as hazardous materials, 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 and operated by others, or held for sale.   Because environmental problems may exist on these properties that are latent or undisclosed, 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 NS’ financial position, results of operations, or liquidity in a particular year or quarter.

 

On April 24, 2008, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) brought an action against NS for alleged violations of federal environmental laws resulting from the discharge of chlorine and oil that occurred as a result of the Jan.January 6, 2005, derailment in Graniteville, SC, including claims for civil penalties as well as injunctive relief.  On June 24, 2008, NS filed aAlthough NS’ motion to dismiss DOJ’s claims, contending that insufficientfor failure to allege sufficient facts have been allegedwas granted, DOJ was given leave to, support such claims.and did, amend its complaint.   NS does not believe that the resolution of these claims will have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

 

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 NS 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'NS’ financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

 

Insurance

 

Norfolk Southern obtains on behalf of itself and its subsidiaries insurance for potential losses for third-party liability and first-party property damages.   NS is currently self-insured up to $25 million and above $1 billion per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage to third parties and up to $25 million and above $175 million per occurrence for property owned by NS or in NS’ care, custody or control.

 

Purchase Commitments

 

At Sept. 30, 2008, NSRMarch 31, 2009, NS had outstanding purchase commitments of approximately $169$113 million primarily for locomotives,freight cars, RoadRailer® trailers freight cars and track material in connection with its capital programs through 2009.2011.

 


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, 2008,March 31, 2009, and the related consolidated statements of income for the three‑month and nine‑month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 and the related consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine‑three‑month periods ended September 30, 2008March 31, 2009 and 2007.2008. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.

 

We conducted our review 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 review, 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.

 

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, 2007,2008, 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 February 15, 2008,18, 2009, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. Our report refers to Norfolk Southern Corporation’s adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, effective January 1, 2007.   In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007,2008, 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
OctoberApril 21, 20082009

 

 


Item 2.   Management's2 ..   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.Operations

 

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESNorfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries

Management'sManagement’s Discussion and Analysis of

Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

 

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes and the Selected Financial Data.

OVERVIEW

 

Third-quarter 2008Reflecting the substantially weaker economy, NS’ first quarter 2009 net income was up $134 million, or 35%,down 39% compared with the same period last year.   The improvement primarily resulted fromyear, as a $213 million increase20% decline in income from railway operations, reflecting higher averagevolumes coupled with lower fuel surcharge revenue per unit (including fuel surcharges) that continued to more than offset the effects of lower traffic volumeexpense reductions and increased operating expenses.net rate/mix increases and led to a 34% decrease in income from railway operations.   Operating expenses declined 19% compared with the same period last year.    The railway operating ratio (a measure of the amount of operating revenues consumed by operating expenses) decreasedrose to 69.1% in80.3% compared with 76.9% for the thirdfirst quarter from 71.1% in the prior year.of 2008.  

 

Cash provided by operating activities for the first nine monthsquarter was $2.1 billion which provided funding for capital expenditures, dividends,$354 million and, supplementedalong with proceeds from borrowings, share repurchases.   In the third quarter of 2008, 6.2 million shares of Norfolk Southern Corporation common stock (Common Stock) were repurchased at a total cost of $405 million.  Since inception of the share repurchase program in 2006, NS has repurchasedprovided for capital expenditures, debt maturities, and retired 60.5 million shares of Common Stock at a total cost of $3.1 billion.dividends.   At Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, cash and short-term investment balances totaled $557$884 million.

 

 

SUMMARIZED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Third-quarter 2008First-quarter 2009 net income was $520$177 million, up $134down $114 million, or 35%39%, compared with the same period last year.   The improvementreduction primarily resulted from a $213$195 million increasedecrease in income from railway operations that reflected a $541$557 million, or 23%22%, risedecline in railway operating revenues, coupled withpartially offset by a $328$362 million, or 20%19%, increasedecrease in railway operating expenses.   Third-quarter net income was reduced by an $83 million increase in income taxes, reflecting both higher pretax income and the absence of benefits associated with synthetic fuel tax credits that expired in 2007.

 

For the first nine months of 2008, net income was $1.3 billion, up $199 million, or 19%, compared with the same period last year.   Increases of $372 million in income from railway operations and $33 million in other income were offset in part by a $207 million increase in income taxes.   Railway operating revenues rose $1.2 billion, or 17%, while railway operating expenses were up $809 million, or 16%.

As a commodity, oilOil prices impactaffect NS’ results of operations in a variety of ways and can have an overall favorable or unfavorable impact in any particular quarter.   In addition to the impact of oil prices on general economic conditions, and traffic volume, and supplier costs, oil prices directly affect NS’ revenues through market-based fuel surcharges and contract escalators (see “Railway Operating Revenues”) and expenses throughalso affect fuel expensecosts (see “Railway Operating Expenses”).   For the thirdfirst quarter and first nine months, oil prices had an overall favorable2009, excluding the impact on income from railway operations.of decreased consumption, the decline in fuel surcharge revenue was greater than the decline in fuel expense.   Future changes in oil prices may cause volatility in operating results that could be material to a particular quarter or year.

quarter.

 

DETAILED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Railway Operating Revenues

 

Third-quarter 2008First-quarter 2009 railway operating revenues were $2.9$1.9 billion, up $541down $557 million, or 23%22%, compared with the thirdfirst quarter of 2007.2008.   As shown in the following table, the increasesdecreases were the result of higherlower traffic volume and lower average revenue per unit, including increased fuel surcharges whichthat were offset in part by lower traffic volume.   Fuel surchargesdown $226 million (and which amounted to $535 million in the third quarter (up $339$94 million) and $1.3 billion for the first nine months (up $714 million).

First Quarter

2009 vs. 2008

Increase (Decrease)

($ in millions)

Traffic volume (units)

$

(509)

Revenue per unit/mix

(48)

     Total

$

(557)

Many of Norfolk Southern’s negotiated fuel surcharges for coal and general merchandise traffic are based on the monthly average price of West Texas Intermediate Crude Oil (WTI Average Price).   These surcharges are reset the first day of each calendar month based on the WTI Average Price for the second preceding calendar month.   This two-month lag in computing WTI Average Price coupled with the change in fuel prices increased fuel surcharge revenue by approximately $55$10 million for the third quarter, but decreased fuel surcharge revenue by approximately $39 million for the first nine months.    quarter.

 

Third Quarter

First Nine Months

 

2008 vs. 2007

2008 vs. 2007

 

Increase (Decrease)

Increase (Decrease)

 

($ in millions)

 

 

 

Revenue per unit/mix

$558   

$1,301   

Traffic volume (units)

  (17)  

  (120)

   Total

$541   

$1,181   

 

Revenues, units and average revenue per unit for NS’ market groups were as follows:

 

Third Quarter

First Quarter

Revenues

Units

Revenue per Unit

Revenues

Units

Revenue per Unit

2008

2007

2008

2007

2008

2007

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

($ in millions)

(in thousands)

($ per unit)

($ in millions)

(in thousands)

($ per unit)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coal

$

876

$

578

 

450.9

 

427.3

$

1,941

$

1,353

$

602

$

662

 

380.8

 

427.0

$

1,581

$

1,551

General merchandise:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Agr./consumer prod./govt.

 

278

 

299

 

130.4

 

152.1

 

2,129

 

1,968

Metals/construction

 

183

 

305

 

120.9

 

186.5

 

1,514

 

1,636

Chemicals

 

337

 

297

 

103.0

 

108.0

 

3,275

 

2,748

 

236

 

305

 

80.3

 

102.2

 

2,941

 

2,986

Metals/construction

 

357

 

287

 

203.7

 

200.3

 

1,752

 

1,433

Agr./consumer prod./govt.

 

338

 

264

 

158.6

 

151.4

 

2,136

 

1,747

Paper/clay/forest

 

166

 

215

 

74.6

 

100.2

 

2,222

 

2,139

Automotive

 

185

 

221

 

86.7

 

123.5

 

2,125

 

1,784

 

112

 

228

 

61.8

 

119.6

 

1,817

 

1,908

Paper/clay/forest

 

241

 

222

 

101.5

 

108.5

 

2,376

 

2,045

General merchandise

 

1,458

 

1,291

 

653.5

 

691.7

 

2,232

 

1,866

 

975

 

1,352

 

468.0

 

660.6

 

2,083

 

2,047

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intermodal

 

560

 

484

 

790.9

 

790.1

 

708

 

612

 

366

 

486

 

606.8

 

740.4

 

604

 

656

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

2,894

$

2,353

 

1,895.3

 

1,909.1

$

1,527

$

1,232

$

1,943

$

2,500

 

1,455.6

 

1,828.0

$

1,335

$

1,367

 


 

First Nine Months

 

Revenues

Units

Revenue per Unit

 

2008

2007

2008

2007

2008

2007

 

($ in millions)

(in thousands)

($ per unit)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coal

$

2,313

$

1,714

 

1,326.2

 

1,282.1

$

1,744

$

1,337

General merchandise:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Chemicals

 

964

 

868

 

309.1

 

323.4

 

3,119

 

2,683

   Metals/construction

 

1,014

 

860

 

600.6

 

595.7

 

1,689

 

1,444

   Agr./consumer prod./govt.

 

963

 

759

 

467.3

 

447.0

 

2,062

 

1,698

   Automotive

 

640

 

703

 

322.6

 

402.9

 

1,983

 

1,744

   Paper/clay/forest

 

687

 

649

 

304.1

 

326.8

 

2,259

 

1,987

General merchandise

 

4,268

 

3,839

 

2,003.7

 

2,095.8

 

2,130

 

1,832

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intermodal

 

1,578

 

1,425

 

2,294.4

 

2,345.0

 

688

 

607

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Total

$

8,159

$

6,978

 

5,624.3

 

5,722.9

$

1,451

$

1,219


Coal

 

Coal revenues increased $298decreased $60 million, or 52%, in the third quarter and $599 million, or 35%9%, in the first nine months,quarter compared with the same periodsperiod last year.   Both increasesThe decrease reflected higher rates, includingan 11% decline in carloads offset in part by a 2% increase in average revenue per unit, despite the impact of lower fuel surcharges, increased traffic volume (up 6% forsurcharges.   Tonnage handled was below first quarter 2008, reflecting decreases in the quarterutility, export, and 3% for the first nine months) and $22 million related to adomestic metallurgical coal customer’s 2008 contracted-volume shortfall and a nonrecurring effect related to the implementation of NS’ new coal billing system.   The higher rates were comprised of pricing increases and contract escalators and the effect of increased longer-haul export coal traffic.   For both periods, tonnage handled increased, reflecting improved export volume.markets.   Coal tonnage by market was as follows:

 


Total Coal, Coke, and Iron Ore Tonnage


Total Coal, Coke, and Iron Ore Tonnage

 

 

 

 

Third Quarter

 

First Nine Months

First Quarter

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

2009

 

2008

 

(tons in thousands)

(Tons in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Utility

 

35,902

 

35,577

 

107,578

 

107,758

33,371

 

35,604

Export

 

6,262

 

4,050

 

18,236

 

11,372

4,381

 

5,773

Steel

 

5,241

 

4,856

 

13,503

 

13,558

Domestic metallurgical

2,610

 

3,517

Industrial

 

2,271

 

2,362

 

6,430

 

7,412

1,849

 

1,909

 

49,676

 

46,845

 

145,747

 

140,100

Total

42,211

 

46,803

 

Utility coal tonnage increased slightly in the third quarter but was essentially flatdecreased 6% in the first nine monthsquarter as higher exporta result of lower demand further tightened coal availability for domestic customers.electricity induced by the downturn in the U.S. economy, natural gas competition, and plant maintenance outages.   Export coal tonnage increased 55% for the third quarter and 60% fordecreased 24% in the first nine months,quarter, reflecting increasedthe decline in global demand coupled with weather-related supply constraintssteel production as a result of the downturn in Australia, reduced export volume from China and the continued weak dollar.   D omesticglobal economy.   Domestic metallurgical coal, coke, and iron ore tonnage increased 8% in the third quarter due to the start up of a new coke plant, coal sourcing changes and new business.   Industrial coal tonnage decreased 4% for the third quarter and 13%was down 26% in the first nine monthsquarter, as domestic steel production declined due to a drop in steel demand.   Other coal tonnage (principally steam coal shipped to industrial plants) decreased 3% in the first quarter compared with 2007,to 2008 principally due to coal supply constraints.reduced production at NS-served plants.

 

NS is currently involved in litigation with Virginia Electric and Power Company/Old Dominion Electric Cooperative (Virginia Power) regarding rate adjustment provisions in a transportation contract between them.   In 2007, the Virginia Supreme Court issued a decision that remanded the case to the trial court on the grounds that neither of its prior decisions constituted a final order.  OnIn April 17, 2008, the trial court entered a final order granting NS monetary damages, including interest, and prescribing the methodology for determining future rates.   Virginia Power filed its Noticea notice of Appeal on May 7, 2008.appeal, and oral argument was held before the Virginia Supreme Court in April 2009.   Future developments and the ultimate resolution of this matter could result in NS recognizing additional revenues related to this dispute, which could have a favorable impact on results of operations in a particular year or quarter.

 

Coal revenues for the remainder of the year are expected to be updown compared to priorlast year levels, due to higher average revenue per unitcontinued weak volumes and continued strength in the domestic and metallurgical markets.lower fuel surcharge revenue.

 

General Merchandise

 

General merchandise revenues increased $167decreased $377 million, or 13%, in the third quarter and $429 million, or 11%28%, in the first nine months,quarter compared with the same periodsperiod last year, reflecting a result of higher average revenue per unit.   The improvement29% decline in averagetraffic volume.   Average revenue per unit reflected higherincreased 2% despite the impact of lower fuel surchargessurcharges.

Agriculture, consumer products, and continued market-based pricing in all groups ..   Trafficgovernment volume declined 6% for the quarter and 4%decreased 14% for the first nine months, driven primarily by lowerquarter, reflecting declines in fertilizer, corn, and soybeans shipments principally due to processing and production cutbacks.   Metals and construction volume declined 35%, reflecting reduced shipments of coil, iron, steel, and scrap metals and reduced demand for construction materials due to the weak housing and automotive volumes.sectors.   Chemicals traffic volume decreased 5% for the third quarter and 4%21% for the first nine months,quarter, reflecting continued weakness in both plasticsindustrial intermediates shipments (linked to housing construction declines), as well as petroleum-based and industrial intermediate products.   Metalsmiscellaneous chemical products shipments.   Paper, clay, and constructionforest products volume was up slightlydown 26% for the first quarter, reflecting reduced U.S. paper production and lower volumes related to the slowdown in both periods as increased carloads from metals, principally scrap, offset declines in housing-related markets.   A griculture, consumer products and government volume increased 5% for both the third quarter and first nine months, reflecting increases in ethanol and military shipments.housing market.   Automotive volumes decreased 30% for the third quarter and 20% for the first nine months, reflecting48%, a result of reduced North American sales and production.   Automotive manufacturers, especially the domestic producers, continuecontinued to experience significant sales declines.declines during the quarter.  North American automotive production decreased by 49% as manufacturers cut production to be more in line with consumer demand.   During the first quarter, Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler combined operate 16operated 15 of 2625 assembly plants served by NS.   FourGeneral Motors operates three of these assembly plants implemented shift reductions during the first nine months of 2008, and two other plants have announced plans to reduce shifts in the fourth quarter.  In addition, one manufacturer has announced plans to close an assembly plant intemporarily idle them during the fourth quarter,second and a second manufacturer has announced plansthird quarters of 2009 for periods of up to idle an assembly plant as it retools to produce a new product in 2010.nine weeks.   NS continues to monitor the state of the automotive industry and the collectability of the associated receivables.   P aper, clay and forest traffic volume was down 6% for the third quarter and 7% for the first nine months, reflecting lower volumes related to the housing slowdown and continued decline in conventional paper markets.  

 

General merchandise revenues are expected to be higher for the remainder of the year compared with 2007 as improved pricing should continueare expected to offsetbe lower traffic volume.than 2008, reflecting lower volumes and fuel surcharge revenue.

 

Intermodal

 

Intermodal revenues increased $76decreased $120 million, or 16%25%, in the thirdfirst quarter and $153 million, or 11%, for the first nine months, compared with the same periodsperiod last year, primarily due to higherreflecting an 18% decline in traffic volume and an 8% decrease in average revenue per unit, including the impact of lower fuel surcharges.   Intermodal volume was flat in the third quarter, but declined 2% in the first nine months.   Domestic volume (which includes truckload and intermodal marketing companies’ [IMC] volumes) increased 18% for the third quarter and 6% for the first nine months,2%, reflecting the relative fuel efficiency of intermodal versus over-the-road transportation and service improvements in the face of a high fuel cost environment.weak economy.   International traffic volume declined 9% for the third quarter and 7% for the first nine months,32%, primarily driven by a soft economy and less inland rail movement of West Coast port traffic that offset East Coast port volume growth.the weak global economy.   The Premium business, which includes parcel and less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers, decreased 2% for the third quarter19% due to poor economic conditions and 3% for the first nine months, as reduced privateless empty movements and soft parcel business offset LTL conversions.repositions.   Triple Crown Services Company, a service with rail-to-highway trailers, experienced a 15% drop in volume was down 5% for the third quarter and 1% for the first nine months primarily driven by reduced auto parts shipments.shipments and the weak economy.

 

Intermodal revenues for the remainder of the year are expected to continue to reflect growth due to increased revenue per unitbe lower than those of last year reflecting lower volumes and stronger domestic volumes related to truckload conversion to intermodal.fuel surcharge revenue.


Railway Operating Expenses

 

Third-quarter railwayRailway operating expenses were $2.0$1.6 billion in 2008, up $328the first quarter of 2009, down $362 million, or 20%, compared with the same period last year.   For the first nine months, railway operating expenses were $5.9 billion, up $809 million, or 16%19%, compared with the same period last year.

 

Compensation and benefits expenses increased $89decreased $66 million, or 14%, in the third quarter and $146 million, or 8%9%, in the first nine months,quarter of 2009, compared with the same periodsperiod last year.   The changes reflecteddecrease was primarily the costresult of lump-sum payments due under a new labor agreement with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineerslower stock-based and Trainmen (BLET) ($28 million), increased incentive compensation due to a higher projected payout (up $25 million for the quarter(down $56 million) and volume-related payroll (down $47 million for the first nine months),million).   These decreases were partially offset by increased wage rates (up $18 million for the quarter and $38 million for the first nine months)$13 million), pension expenses (up $10 million), and increased stock-based compensation primarily due to stock price increases during the periodsmedical benefits for active and retired employees (up $9 million for the quarter and $36 million for the first nine months)$10 million).

 

Purchased services and rents increased $28includes the costs of services purchased from outside contractors, including the net costs of operating joint (or leased) facilities with other railroads and the net cost of equipment rentals.   This category of expenses decreased $20 million, or 7%, in the third quarter and $39 million, or 3%5%, in the first nine months,quarter, compared with the same periodsperiod last year.   The increasesyear, reflecting lower volume-related intermodal and automotive operational costs and equipment rents that were primarily drivenoffset in part by higher intermodal terminal costs, transportation operatingincreased roadway maintenance costs and professional and legal services that were partially offset by lower equipment rents.costs.

 

Fuel expense, which includes the cost of locomotive fuel as well as other fuel used in railway operations, increased $185decreased $245 million, or 64%, for the third quarter and $553 million, or 68%61%, for the first nine months,quarter, compared with the same periodsperiod last year,year.   The decline consisted of $175 million based on price and $70 million based on consumption, which reflected a 50% drop in the price per gallon of locomotive fuel and 19% lower consumption.

Depreciation expense increased $9 million, or 5%, in the first quarter, reflecting sharply higher fuel prices.an increased capital base.

 

Materials and otherexpenses (including the estimates of costs related to personal injury, property damage, and environmental matters) increased $19decreased $40 million, or 11%17%, in the thirdfirst quarter, and $51 million, or 8%, for the first nine months, compared with the same periodsperiod last year.   The increasesdecline reflected increased materials costs for locomotive and freight car repairs as well as higher expenses associated with derailments and employee travel and relocation costs.   The year-to-date increase also reflected costs associated with the absence of the 2008 Avondale Mills settlement related to the Graniteville accident (see additional discussion below) as well as lower costs associated with derailments, personal injury claims development, and freight car material costs which were offset in part by favorable personal injuryhigher environmental claims development.   The following table shows the components of materials and other expenses.expenses:

 

Third Quarter

First Nine Months

First Quarter

2008

2007

2008

2007

2009   

2008   

(in millions)

($ in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Materials

$

96

$

88

$

293

$

268

$   

89   

$   

101   

Casualties and other claims

 

34

 

33

 

141

 

131

 

36   

 

65   

Other

 

68

 

58

 

218

 

202

 

75   

 

74   

$

198

$

179

$

652

$

601

 

 

 

 

$   

200   

$   

240   

 

In April 2008, NS settled the lawsuit brought by Avondale Mills for claims associated with the Jan.January 6, 2005, derailment in Graniteville, SC.  A portion of the settlement willwas not be reimbursed by insurance and was included in first-quarterfirst quarter 2008 expenses.  The total liability related to the derailment 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 the unreimbursed portion and NS’ self-insured retention, including NS’ response costs and legal fees.  The Consolidated Balance Sheets reflect current and long-term receivables for estimated recoveries from NS’ insurance carriers.   On July 1, 2008, NS filed a demand foris engaged in arbitration againstwith one of its insurance carriers that failed to respond to an insurance claim submitted by NS.  Although t he arbitral tribunal has been appointed, the carrier has not yet filed its grounds of defense.   However, it is likely that all or part of the recorded recovery attributable to such carrier ($100 million) will be contested.   NS believes these expenses are covered by the insurance policy and that recovery of anythe contested amount is probable, in that ifNS expects the carrier contests payment an arbitrator wouldwill determine the settlement amounts to be reasonable and that the insurer’s refusal to consent to and to fund the settlement was a breach of contract.   Accordingly, NS has recorded the full recovery attributable to such carrier ($100 million).   In October 2008, another of NS’ insurance carriers provided the preliminary findings of its review of NS’ reimbursement request and reported that it may dispute a portion of that request.   NS has initiated arbitration against the carrier and believes that all expenses contained in the reimbursement request are covered by the insurance policy and that recovery is probable.

 

Other incomeIncomenetNet

 

Other income – net increased $8was $17 million, in the third quarter and $33up $10 million infrom the first nine monthsquarter of 2008,last year, reflecting higher net returns from corporate-owned life insurance (up $8 million) and increased coal royalties (up $6 million).

Provision for Income Taxes

The effective income tax rate for the first quarter was 37.5% in 2009, compared with 38.9% for the same periods in 2007.period last year.   The increases reflect the absence of expenses related to synthetic fuel investments (down $18 milliondecrease for the quarter and $64 million for the first nine months), reduced interest expense (down $11 million for the quarter and $21 million for the first nine months) due to second- and third-quarter adjustments to reflect the outcome of certain tax examinations and higher coal royalties (up $5 million for the quarter and $6 million for the first nine months).   These benefits were partially offset by fewer gains on the sale of property and investments (down $20 million for the quarter and $12 million for the first nine months), lower returns and higher borrowing costs on corporate-owned life insurance (down $8 million for the quarter and $40 million for the first nine months) and lower interest income (down $5 million for the quarter and $22 million for the first nine months).


Provision for Income Taxes

The third-quarter and year-to-date effective income tax rates were 36.7% and 37.8% in 2008, compared with 36.2% and 34.5% for the same periods last year.   The increases werewas largely due to the absencefavorable resolution of synthetic fuel-related credits which expired at the end of 2007, offset by thecertain prior year tax benefit arising from the donation of a conservation easement as well as the absence of an Illinois tax law change which increased deferred taxes by $19 million in the third quarter of 2007.positions.

 

The Internal Revenue Service completed its audit of NS’ consolidated federal income tax returns for 2004 and 2005 during the third quarter (see Note 2), and the 2006 and 2007 tax years are now being audited.audited by the Internal Revenue Service and these audits are expected to be completed by year end.

 

 

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY

 

Cash provided by operating activities, NS'NS’ principal source of liquidity, was $2.1 billion for$354 million in the first ninethree months of 2009 compared with $604 million in the first three months of 2008, and $1.8 billion for the first nine months of 2007.reflecting lower income from railway operations.   NS had a working capital deficit of $221$176 million at Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, compared with a working capital deficit of $273$106 million at Dec.December 31, 2007;2008; the change was largely the result of increased proceeds from borrowingsan increase in cash and cash flows from operations that were largely offset by higher debt repayments, property additions and share repurchases.   The payment of the Avondale Mills settlement affected working capital because the amount subject to arbitration is classified as a long-term receivable.   NS’ cash, cash equivalents and short-term investmentreduced accounts payable.   NS’ cash and cash equivalents balances totaled $557$884 million at Sept. 30, 2008.March 31, 2009.   NS expects that cash on hand combined with cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet its ongoing obligations.   In additionThere have been no material changes to the contractual obligation amounts andor information relating to NS’ future obligations related to certainuncertain tax positions contained in NS’ Form 10-K as of Dec.for the year ended December 31, 2007, NS (1) made additional purchase commitments for capital assets, discussed below, (2) through a private offering issued and sold $600 million in debt securities during the second quarter of 2008, and (3) decreased the unrecognized tax benefit by $33 million to $134 million primarily due to resolution of the 2004 and 2005 federal income tax audits.   The year of settlement of the $134 million unrecognized tax benefit cannot be reasonably estimated.2008.

 

Cash used for investing activities was $810$244 million forin the first nine monthsquarter of 2008,2009, compared with $600$247 million in the same period last year, reflecting higherlower investment sales and other transactions offset by a reduction in property additions.   In

Cash provided by financing activities was $156 million in the first quarter of 2008, Norfolk Southern’s Board2009 compared with a use of Directors approved the addition of $64$199 million to its 2008 capital budget to accelerate the purchase of approximately 750 new coal cars.   In July 2008, the Board of Directors authorized the addition of approximately $80 million to the 2008 capital budget, three quarters of which is to acquire new locomotives and the remainder to accelerate program track work.

Cash used for financing activities was $914 million forin the first nine monthsquarter of 2008, compared with $1.3 billion for the same period of 2007.2008.  The change reflected net debt issuancesthe absence of $99 million in 2008 compared withshare repurchase activity during the quarter and lower debt repayments that were offset in part by fewer exercises of $454 million in 2007.   Additionally, NSemployee stock options and by increased dividend payments.   Due to current economic and market conditions, the amount of future share repurchases foris uncertain and the first nine months of 2008 were $130 million higher than for the first nine months of 2007.   The timing and volume of such future share repurchases will be guided by management’s assessment of market conditions and other pertinent factors.   Near-term purchases under the share repurchase program are expected to be made with internally generated cash and proceeds from financings.   NS’ debt-to-total capitalization ratio was 39.2%41.7% at Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, compared with 39.6%41.0% at Dec.December 31, 2007.2008.

In January 2009, through a private offering, NS issued $500 million of unsecured notes at 5.75% due 2016 (see Note 7).   The net proceeds from the offering were $494 million after deducting the purchase discount and expenses.   NS has agreed to exchange the unregistered securities with essentially identical securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933.

 

NS has authority from its board of directors to issue an additional $1 billion of debt or equity securities through public or private sale.   As of March 31, 2009, NS has on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a Form S-3 automatic shelf registration statement for well-known seasoned issuers under which up to $1 billion could be issued under this authority.

NS also has in place and available a $1 billion, five-year credit agreement expiring in 2012, which provides for borrowings at prevailing rates and includes covenants.   NS had no amounts outstanding under this facility at Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, and NS is in compliance with all of the covenants.   Through February 2009, NS is ineligible to utilize its March 2001 and September 2004 Form S-3 registration statements due to a late filing of a Form 8-K which was unrelated to its financial condition or results of operations.   However, this is not expected to havealso has an impact on financial liquidity.   Through a private offering, NS issued and sold $600 million in debt securities in April 2008 (see Note 7), and subsequently exchanged substantially all of these unregistered securities with essentially identical securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933.   In October 2008, NS renewed and amended its accounts receivable securitization facility,program with a new 364-day term to run untilexpiring in October 2009.2009 (see Note 7).

 

The creation of Pan Am Southern LLC (PAS), a newly formed railroad company in which each of Pan Am Railways, Inc. (Pan Am) and NS has a 50% equity interest, was completed as of April 9, 2009.  Pan Am has contributed to PAS a 155-mile main line track that runs between Mechanicville, New York and Ayer, Massachusetts, along with 281 miles of secondary and branch lines, including trackage rights in New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont (collectively, the “PAS Lines”), and NS has both contributed cash and other property with a value of approximately $60 million and committed to contribute an additional $80 million in cash and other property over the next three years.  A significant portion of NS’ contributions will be used for capital improvements to the PAS Lines and the related construction of new intermodal and automotive terminals in the Albany, New York and the Ayer, Massachusetts areas.

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.   These estimates and assumptions may require significant judgment about matters that are inherently uncertain, and future events are likely to occur that may require management to change them.make changes to these estimates and assumptions.   Accordingly, management regularly reviews these estimates and assumptions based on historical experience, changes in the business environment, and other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances.   Management regularly discusses the development, selection, and disclosures concerning critical accounting estimates with the Audit Committee of its Board of Directors.   There have been no significant changes to the Application of Critical Accounting Estimates disclosure contained in NS’ Form 10‑K10-K as of Dec.December 31, 2007.2008.

 

 

OTHER MATTERS

 

Labor Agreements

 

Approximately 26,000, or about 85%, of NS'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 (RLA).   NS largely bargains nationally in concert with other major railroads.   Moratorium provisions in the labor agreements govern when the railroads and the unions may propose changes.

 

NS recently reached an agreement with the BLET that extends its contract through 2014.   The new BLET agreement covers approximately 5,000 engineers and provides each the opportunity for an annual bonus payment based on company financial and service performance metrics and his or her work availability in the previous year.   In addition, in October 2008, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) ratified an agreement with NS.

The most recent national bargaining round began in late 2004.   Since that time, the railroads have reached national agreements that extend through 2009 with all of the major rail unions.   Additionally, the current agreement with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) extends through 2014.   Because NS has reached separate agreements with the BLET and the American Train Dispatchers Association (ATDA), only the health and welfare provisions from the national agreements apply to NS’ locomotive engineers and ATDA-represented dispatchers.   A small number of longshoremen at Ashtabula (Ohio) Docks are represented by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and do not participate in national bargaining.   Negotiations are continuing with that organization.  

 

Market Risks and Hedging Activities

 

NS uses derivative financial instruments to manage its overall exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.   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.

 

At Sept. 30, 2008, NS'March 31, 2009, NS’ debt subject to interest rate fluctuations totaled $122$114 million.   A 1% increase in interest rates would increase NS'NS’ total annual interest expense related to all its variable debt by approximately $1 million.   Management considers it unlikely that interest rate fluctuations applicable to these instruments will result in a material adverse effect on NS'NS’ financial condition,position, results of operations, or liquidity.

 

Some of NS'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, 2008,March 31, 2009, the average pay rate under these agreements was 3%, and the average receive rate was 7%6%.   TheDuring the first quarter of 2009 and 2008, the effect of the swaps was to reduce interest expense by less than $1 million in the third quarter and first nine months of both 2008 and 2007.periods.   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'jurisdictions’ environmental laws and regulations.   It is NS'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 Consolidated Balance Sheets 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 an Environmental Policy Council, composed of senior managers, to oversee and interpret its environmental policy.

 

NS'NS’ Consolidated Balance Sheets include liabilities for environmental exposures in the amount of $39$40 million at Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, and $46$42 million at Dec.December 31, 20072008 (of which $12 million is classified as a current liability at the end of each period).   At Sept. 30, 2008,March 31, 2009, the liability represents NS'NS’ estimate of the probable cleanup and remediation costs based on available information at 148147 known locations.   As of that date, 1113 sites account for $19$23 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 3029 locations, one or more subsidiaries of NS, 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'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'sparticipant’s share of any estimated loss (and that participant'sparticipant’s ability to bear it), and evolving statutory and regulatory standards governing liability.

 

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'NS’ financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

New Accounting Pronouncement

 

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board Staff Position (FSP) No. 132(R)-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets,” was issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.”   This statement,on December 30, 2008.   The FSP, effective for interimfiscal years ending after December 15, 2009, clarifies an employer’s disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or annual reporting periods beginning after Nov. 15, 2007, establishes a framework for measuringother postretirement plan.   The FSP prescribes expanded disclosures regarding investment allocation decisions, categories of plan assets, inputs, and valuation techniques used to measure fair value, the effect of Level 3 inputs on changes in U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.   NS adopted the statement Jan. 1, 2008, related to financial instrumentplan assets and liabilities with nosignificant concentrations of risk.   NS will adopt the FSP at the end of 2009 and expects it will not have a material effect on NS’ consolidated financial statements.

 

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, a capital-intensive company, has most of its capital invested in such assets.property.   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'sManagement’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"“believe,” “expect,” “anticipate” and "project."“project.” Forward-looking statements reflect management'smanagement’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; interest rates; the business environment in industries that produce and consume rail freight; competition and consolidation within the transportation industry; the operations of carriers with which NS interchanges; acts of terrorism or war; fluctuation in prices or availability of key materials, in particular diesel fuel; labor difficulties, including strikes and work stoppages; legislative and regulatory developments; results of litigation; changes in securities and capital markets; disruptions to ourNS’ technology infrastructure, including our computer systems; and natural events such as severe weather, hurricanes, and floods.   For a discussion of significant risk factors applicable to NS, see Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” in NS’ Form 10-K as of Dec. 31, 2007, and any updates contained herein.Factors.”   Forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as, a guarantee 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.   NS undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements.

 

 

Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.Risk

 

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

 

 

Item 4.   Controls and Procedures.Procedures

 

(a)   Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Norfolk Southern’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of NS'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 “Exchange Act”)) as of Sept. 30, 2008.March 31, 2009.   Based on such evaluation, such officers have concluded that, as of Sept. 30, 2008, NS'March 31, 2009, 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'NS’ periodic filings under the Exchange Act.

 

(b) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

During the thirdfirst quarter of 2008,2009, management did not identify any changes in NS'NS’ internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, NS’ internal control over financial reporting.


PART II.   OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.   Legal Proceedings.Proceedings

 

With respect toIn February 2009, the antitrust class actions consolidated on November 6, 2007,City of Ashtabula, Ohio (City) filed a “citizen suit” complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, alleging violations of the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act stemming from the operation of NS’ coal dock in Ashtabula, Ohio.   The City’s complaint relates to the same facts and circumstances that are the subject of previously disclosed enforcement activity initiated by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.   Resolution of the matter with the State of Ohio would create a legal bar to the City’s action.   The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has submitted to NS a proposed Consent Assessment of Civil Penalty with respect to several alleged environmental releases from September 2007 to the present.   Although NS will contest liability and the imposition of any penalties, because these governmental proceedings with respect to environmental laws and regulations involve potential fines, penalties or other monetary sanctions in excess of $100,000, we describe them here consistent with SEC rules and requirements.   NS does not believe that the outcome of these proceedings will have a material effect on its financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

On November 6, 2007, various antitrust class actions filed against NS and other Class 1 railroads in various Federal district courts regarding fuel surcharges were consolidated in the District of Columbia by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation, consolidated amended class action complaints were filed against NS and three other railroads on April 15, 2008.  The complaints allege violations of Federal antitrust laws and other laws with regard to the railroads’ fuel surcharge programs.  Motions to dismiss the consolidated complaints were filed by the railroads on May 30, 2008, and discovery has been stayed pending resolution of such motions.Litigation.  NS believes the allegations in the complaints are without merit and intends to vigorously defend these actions.the cases.  NS does not believe that the outcome of these proceedings will have a material effect on its financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.   A lawsuit containing similar allegations against NS and four other major railroads that was filed on March 25, 2008, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff subject to a tolling agreement entered into in August 2008.

 

On April 24, 2008, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) brought an action against NS for alleged violations of federal environmental laws resulting from the discharge of chlorine and oil that occurred as a result of the Jan.January 6, 2005, derailment in Graniteville, SC, including claims for civil penalties as well as injunctive relief.  On June 24, 2008, NS filed aAlthough NS’ motion to dismiss DOJ’s claims, contending that insufficientfor failure to allege sufficient facts have been allegedwas granted, DOJ was given leave to, support such claims.and did, amend its complaint.   NS does not believe that the resolution of these claims will have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

 

Item 1A.   Risk Factors.Factors

The following risk factors, which were included in NS’ 2007 Form 10-K, are amended in their entirety to read as follows.   The remaining risk factors included in NS’ 20072008 Form 10-K remain unchanged and are incorporated herein by reference.

NS is subject to significant governmental regulation and legislation over commercial, environmental and operating matters.  

Railroads are subject to commercial regulation by the STB, which has jurisdiction over some routes, fuel surcharges, conditions of service and the extension or abandonment of rail lines.   The STB also has jurisdiction over the consolidation, merger or acquisition of control of and by rail common carriers.   In addition, Congress could enact re-regulation legislation.   Economic re-regulation of the rail industry by Congress could have a significant negative impact on NS’ ability to determine prices for rail services, reduce capital spending on its rail network, and result in a material adverse effect in the future on NS’ financial position, results of operations or liquidity in a particular year or quarter.

Railroads are subject to safety and security regulation by the DOT and the DHS, which regulate most aspects of NS’ operations.   Enactment of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008   could add to operating costs and increase the number of employees NS and other railroads employ.   In addition, NS’ failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on NS.

NS’ operations are subject to extensive federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations concerning, among other things, emissions to the air; discharges to water ways or ground water supplies; handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste and other materials; and the cleanup of hazardous material or petroleum releases. The risk of incurring environmental liability – for acts and omissions, past, present and future – is inherent in the railroad business.  Several of NS’ subsidiaries own, or have owned, land used as operating property or held for sale, or which is leased or may have been leased and operated by others.  Environmental problems that are latent or undisclosed may exist on these properties, and NS could incur environmental liabilities or costs, the amount and materiality of which cannot be estimated reliably at this time, with respect to one or more of these properties.  Moreover, lawsuits and claims involving other unidentified environmental sites and matters are likely to arise from time to time, and the resulting liabilities could have a significant effect on financial position, results of operations or liquidity in a particular year or quarter.

NS, as a common carrier by rail, must offer to transport hazardous materials, regardless of risk.   Transportation of certain hazardous materials could create catastrophic losses in terms of personal injury and property damage costs, and compromise critical parts of our rail network.   Legislation introduced in Congress would give federal regulators increased authority to conduct investigations and levy substantial fines and penalties in connection with railroad accidents.   In April 2008, federal regulators prescribed new regulations governing railroads’ transportation of hazardous materials, including annual routing analyses, security risk assessments and employee security training.   Regulations proposed in late 2006 by DHS mandating chain of custody and security measures likely will cause service degradation and higher costs for the transportation of toxic inhalation hazard materials.   Further, certain local governments have sought to enact ordinances banning hazardous materials moving by rail within their borders.   Some legislators have contemplated pre-notification requirements for hazardous materials shipments.   If promulgated such ordinances could require the re-routing of hazardous materials shipments, with the potential for significant additional costs and network inefficiencies.


Item 2.   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.Proceeds

 

ISSUER REPURCHASESPURCHASES 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(2)

(d) Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) that may yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(2)

 

July 1-31, 2008

   1,570,351

$61.68

   1,570,090

19,053,250

 

Aug. 1-31, 2008

   1,509,892

$70.01

   1,504,400

17,548,850

 

Sept. 1-30, 2008

   3,034,100

$66.92

   3,034,100

14,514,750

 

Total

      6,114,343(1)

 

   6,108,590

 

Period

(a) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased (1)

(b) Average Price Paid per Share

(or Unit )

(c) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs(2)

 

(d) Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) that may yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(2)

 

    January 1-31, 2009

      2,584

38.69

            --

10,312,150

  

    February 1-28, 2009

            --

      --

            --

10,312,150

 

    March 1-31, 2009

            --

      --

            --

10,312,150

 

Total

      2,584

 

            --

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)                 Of thisThis amount 5,753 represent shares(2,584)  represents s hares tendered by employees in connection with the exercise of stock options under the Long-Term Incentive Plan.

(2)                 On Nov.November 22, 2005, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program, pursuant to which up to 50 million shares of Common Stock could be repurchasedpurchased through Dec.December 31, 2015.   On March 27, 2007, the Board of Directors amended the program so as to increaseand increased the number of shares that may be repurchased to 75 million, and shortened the repurchase term by five years to Dec.December 31, 2010.

Item 6.   Exhibits.Exhibits

 

See Exhibit Index beginning on page 2725 for a description of the exhibits filed as a part of this report.


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.April 24, 20082009

/s/ Howard D. McFadden

 

 

 

Howard D. McFadden

 

 

Corporate Secretary (Signature)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

Oct.April 24, 20082009

/s/ Marta R. StewartC. H. Allison, Jr.

 

 

 

Marta R. StewartC. H. Allison, Jr.

 

 

Vice President and Controller

 

 

(Principal Accounting Officer) (Signature)

 

 


EXHIBIT INDEX

 

 

10.1*10.1

Stock Unit PlanLimited Liability Company Agreement of NorfolkPan Am Southern CorporationLLC, dated as of July 24, 2001, as amended on Aug. 21, 2008, with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2009.

10.2

The Bylaws of Norfolk Southern Corporation, as amended effective Sept. 22, 2008, areApril 9, 2009, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.(II)10.1 to Norfolk Southern Corporation’s Form 8-K filed on Sept. 22, 2008.

10.3

Amendment No. 1 to TransferApril 9, 2009 (exhibits, annexes, and Administration Agreement dated asschedules omitted – the Registrant will furnish supplementary copies of Oct. 22, 2008, and effective as of Oct. 23, 2008, with respectsuch materials to the Registrant’s $500 million receivables securitization facility, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99 to Norfolk Southern Corporation’s Form 8-K filed on Oct. 23, 2008.SEC upon request).

 

15*

Letter regarding unaudited interim financial information.

 

31*

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

 

32*

Section 1350 Certifications.

 

 

*   Filed herewith.