Burlington Northern Santa Fe Reports Fourth Quarter, Full Year 2008 Results

2009-01-22

Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation on Jan. 21 reported quarterly earnings of $1.79 per diluted share, an increase of 23 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2007 earnings of $1.46 per share.

“I am proud of what we achieved in a very difficult year. Our people faced floods, hurricanes, the uncertain economy and many other challenges with resilience, tenacity and a focus on meeting customer expectations,” said Matt Rose, chairman, president and chief executive officer, in a message to employees. “On the financial side, we managed our expenses and debt carefully, which will help us weather the current economic volatility. Once again, we proved the value of our diverse franchise, as Coal and Agricultural Products volumes somewhat offset declines in Consumer and Industrial Products.”

Other highlights include the following:

Fourth-quarter freight revenues rose $124 million, or 3 percent, to $4.25 billion compared with the same prior year period, on improved yields and higher fuel surcharges offset by lower volumes.

Operating income was $1.12 billion, an increase of $166 million, or 17 percent, compared with the fourth quarter of 2007.

Full-year 2008 earnings per diluted share were $6.08, or 19 percent higher than full- year 2007 earnings of $5.10.

Read about BNSF’s 2009 capital commitments.

BNSF Headquarters

For more information on the company and its transportation solutions, visit the BNSF Web site at www.bnsf.com