UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended MARCH 31, 20212022

   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

nsc-20220331_g1.jpg
 
NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 
Virginia52-1188014
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
Three Commercial Place650 West Peachtree Street NW23510-219130308-1925
Norfolk,Atlanta,VirginiaGeorgia
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)
(757)(855)629-2680667-3655
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
No Changechange
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading SymbolName of each exchange on which registered
Norfolk Southern Corporation Common Stock (Par Value $1.00)NSCNew York Stock Exchange

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  No
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).     Yes  No
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. 
Large accelerated filer Accelerated filer Non-accelerated filer Smaller reporting company Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

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

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 March 31, 20212022
Common Stock ($1.00 par value per share)250,241,009238,332,514 (excluding 20,320,777 shares held by the registrant’s
consolidated subsidiaries)




TABLE OF CONTENTS

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

  Page
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
  
Item 1. Financial Statements
 
Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
 First Quarter
 20212020
 ($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Railway operating revenues$2,639 $2,625 
Railway operating expenses  
Compensation and benefits611 622 
Purchased services and rents393 403 
Fuel177 189 
Depreciation292 292 
Materials and other151 166 
Loss on asset disposal385 
Total railway operating expenses1,624 2,057 
Income from railway operations1,015 568 
Other income – net22 
Interest expense on debt156 154 
Income before income taxes866 436 
Income taxes193 55 
Net income$673 $381 
Earnings per share  
Basic$2.67 $1.48 
Diluted2.66 1.47 
 First Quarter
 20222021
 ($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Railway operating revenues$2,915 $2,639 
Railway operating expenses  
Compensation and benefits619 611 
Purchased services and rents437 393 
Fuel301 177 
Depreciation302 292 
Materials and other171 151 
Total railway operating expenses1,830 1,624 
Income from railway operations1,085 1,015 
Other income (expense) – net(5)
Interest expense on debt168 156 
Income before income taxes912 866 
Income taxes209 193 
Net income$703 $673 
Earnings per share  
Basic$2.94 $2.67 
Diluted2.93 2.66 
 
 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
3


Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Unaudited)
 First Quarter
20212020
 ($ in millions)
Net income$673 $381 
Other comprehensive income, before tax:
Pension and other postretirement benefits11 
Other comprehensive income of equity investees
Other comprehensive income, before tax11 12 
Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income(3)(2)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax10 
Total comprehensive income$681 $391 
 First Quarter
20222021
 ($ in millions)
Net income$703 $673 
Other comprehensive income, before tax:
Pension and other postretirement benefits11 
Other comprehensive income of equity investees— 
Other comprehensive income, before tax12 11 
Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income(4)(3)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Total comprehensive income$711 $681 
 
 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
4


Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
March 31,
2021
December 31,
2020
($ in millions)
Assets  
Current assets:  
Cash and cash equivalents$998 $1,115 
Accounts receivable – net944 848 
Materials and supplies241 221 
Other current assets120 134 
Total current assets2,303 2,318 
Investments3,604 3,590 
Properties less accumulated depreciation of $11,672 
and $11,985, respectively31,312 31,345 
Other assets718 709 
Total assets$37,937 $37,962 
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity  
Current liabilities:  
Accounts payable$1,043 $1,016 
Income and other taxes361 263 
Other current liabilities344 302 
Current maturities of long-term debt501 579 
Total current liabilities2,249 2,160 
Long-term debt12,116 12,102 
Other liabilities1,952 1,987 
Deferred income taxes6,977 6,922 
Total liabilities23,294 23,171 
Stockholders’ equity:  
Common stock $1.00 per share par value, 1,350,000,000 shares  
  authorized; outstanding 250,241,009 and 252,095,082 shares,  
  respectively, net of treasury shares251 254 
Additional paid-in capital2,241 2,248 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(586)(594)
Retained income12,737 12,883 
Total stockholders’ equity14,643 14,791 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$37,937 $37,962 
March 31,
2022
December 31,
2021
($ in millions)
Assets  
Current assets:  
Cash and cash equivalents$1,571 $839 
Accounts receivable – net1,070 976 
Materials and supplies264 218 
Other current assets110 134 
Total current assets3,015 2,167 
Investments3,697 3,707 
Properties less accumulated depreciation of $12,123 
and $12,031, respectively31,657 31,653 
Other assets992 966 
Total assets$39,361 $38,493 
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity  
Current liabilities:  
Accounts payable$1,181 $1,351 
Income and other taxes443 305 
Other current liabilities370 312 
Current maturities of long-term debt1,153 553 
Total current liabilities3,147 2,521 
Long-term debt13,691 13,287 
Other liabilities1,845 1,879 
Deferred income taxes7,217 7,165 
Total liabilities25,900 24,852 
Stockholders’ equity:  
Common stock $1.00 per share par value, 1,350,000,000 shares  
  authorized; outstanding 238,332,514 and 240,162,790 shares,  
  respectively, net of treasury shares240 242 
Additional paid-in capital2,203 2,215 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(394)(402)
Retained income11,412 11,586 
Total stockholders’ equity13,461 13,641 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$39,361 $38,493 
 
 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
5


Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
 First Three Months
 20212020
 ($ in millions)
Cash flows from operating activities  
Net income$673 $381 
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:  
Depreciation292 292 
Deferred income taxes52 11 
Gains and losses on properties(8)(8)
Loss on asset disposal385 
Changes in assets and liabilities affecting operations:  
Accounts receivable(95)32 
Materials and supplies(20)(21)
Other current assets(33)
Current liabilities other than debt158 (40)
Other – net(46)(44)
Net cash provided by operating activities1,015 955 
Cash flows from investing activities  
Property additions(265)(366)
Property sales and other transactions37 158 
Investment sales and other transactions26 (25)
Net cash used in investing activities(202)(233)
Cash flows from financing activities  
Dividends(249)(242)
Common stock transactions(6)14 
Purchase and retirement of common stock(591)(466)
Debt repayments(84)
Net cash used in financing activities(930)(694)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents(117)28 
Cash and cash equivalents  
At beginning of year1,115 580 
At end of period$998 $608 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information  
Cash paid during the period for:  
Interest (net of amounts capitalized)$110 $121 
Income taxes (net of refunds)27 16 
 First Three Months
 20222021
 ($ in millions)
Cash flows from operating activities  
Net income$703 $673 
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:  
Depreciation302 292 
Deferred income taxes48 52 
Gains and losses on properties(6)(8)
Changes in assets and liabilities affecting operations:  
Accounts receivable(94)(95)
Materials and supplies(46)(20)
Other current assets21 
Current liabilities other than debt83 158 
Other – net(17)(46)
Net cash provided by operating activities994 1,015 
Cash flows from investing activities  
Property additions(389)(265)
Property sales and other transactions36 37 
Investment purchases(1)— 
Investment sales and other transactions19 26 
Net cash used in investing activities(335)(202)
Cash flows from financing activities  
Dividends(297)(249)
Common stock transactions(18)(6)
Purchase and retirement of common stock(600)(591)
Proceeds from borrowings989 — 
Debt repayments(1)(84)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities73 (930)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents732 (117)
Cash and cash equivalents  
At beginning of year839 1,115 
At end of period$1,571 $998 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information  
Cash paid during the period for:  
Interest (net of amounts capitalized)$114 $110 
Income taxes (net of refunds)27 

 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
6


Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity
(Unaudited)

Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accum. Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Retained
Income
TotalCommon
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accum. Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Retained
Income
Total
($ in millions, except per share amounts) ($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Balance at December 31, 2020$254 $2,248 $(594)$12,883 $14,791 
Balance at December 31, 2021Balance at December 31, 2021$242 $2,215 $(402)$11,586 $13,641 
Comprehensive income:Comprehensive income:Comprehensive income:
Net incomeNet income673 673 Net income703 703 
Other comprehensive incomeOther comprehensive incomeOther comprehensive income
Total comprehensive incomeTotal comprehensive income681 Total comprehensive income711 
Dividends on common stock,Dividends on common stock,Dividends on common stock,
$0.99 per share(249)(249)
$1.24 per share$1.24 per share(297)(297)
Share repurchasesShare repurchases(3)(19)(569)(591)Share repurchases(2)(19)(579)(600)
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation12 (1)11 Stock-based compensation(1)
Balance at March 31, 2021$251 $2,241 $(586)$12,737 $14,643 
Balance at March 31, 2022Balance at March 31, 2022$240 $2,203 $(394)$11,412 $13,461 


Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accum. Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Retained
Income
TotalCommon
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accum. Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Retained
Income
Total
($ in millions, except per share amounts)($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Balance at December 31, 2019$259 $2,209 $(491)$13,207 $15,184 
Balance at December 31, 2020Balance at December 31, 2020$254 $2,248 $(594)$12,883 $14,791 
Comprehensive income:Comprehensive income:Comprehensive income:
Net incomeNet income381 381 Net income673 673 
Other comprehensive incomeOther comprehensive income10 10 Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive incomeTotal comprehensive income391 Total comprehensive income681 
Dividends on common stock,Dividends on common stock,Dividends on common stock,
$0.94 per share(242)(242)
$0.99 per share$0.99 per share(249)(249)
Share repurchasesShare repurchases(2)(21)(443)(466)Share repurchases(3)(19)(569)(591)
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation17 (1)17 Stock-based compensation12 (1)11 
Balance at March 31, 2020$258 $2,205 $(481)$12,902 $14,884 
Balance at March 31, 2021Balance at March 31, 2021$251 $2,241 $(586)$12,737 $14,643 

 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
7


Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
 
In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary to present fairly Norfolk Southern Corporation (Norfolk Southern) and subsidiaries’ (collectively, NS, we, us, and our) financial position at March 31, 2021,2022 and December 31, 2020,2021, our results of operations, comprehensive income and changes in stockholders’ equity for the first quarters of 20212022 and 2020,2021, and our cash flows for the first three months of 20212022 and 20202021 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
 
These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K.

1. Railway Operating Revenues

The following table disaggregates our revenues by major commodity group:
First Quarter
20212020
($ in millions)
Merchandise:
Agriculture, forest and consumer products$539 $551 
Chemicals459 520 
Metals and construction370 367 
Automotive240 234 
Merchandise1,608 1,672 
Intermodal719 655 
Coal312 298 
Total$2,639 $2,625 
First Quarter
20222021
($ in millions)
Merchandise:
Agriculture, forest and consumer products$573 $539 
Chemicals498 459 
Metals and construction375 370 
Automotive226 240 
Merchandise1,672 1,608 
Intermodal854 719 
Coal389 312 
Total$2,915 $2,639 

We recognize the amount of revenues to which we expect to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. A performance obligation is created when a customer under a transportation contract or public tariff submits a bill of lading to us for the transport of goods. These performance obligations are satisfied as the shipments move from origin to destination. As such, transportation revenues are recognized proportionally as a shipment moves, and related expenses are recognized as incurred. These performance obligations are generally short-term in nature with transit days averaging approximately one week or less for each commodity group. The customer has an unconditional obligation to pay for the service once the service has been completed. Estimated revenues associated with in-process shipments at period-end are recorded based on the estimated percentage of service completed. We had no material remaining performance obligations at March 31, 20212022 and December 31, 2020.2021.

We may provide customers ancillary services, such as switching, demurrage and other incidental activities, under their transportation contracts. These are distinct performance obligations that are recognized at a point in time when the services are performed or as contractual obligations are met. These revenues are included within each of the commodity groups and represent approximately 6%7% and 5%6% of total “Railway operating revenues” on the Consolidated Statements of Income for the first quarters ended March 31, 20212022 and March 31, 2020,2021, respectively.

Revenues related to interline transportation services that involve another railroad are reported on a net basis. Therefore, the portion of the amount that relates to another party is not reflected in revenues.

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Under the typical terms of our freight contracts, payment for services is due within fifteen days of billing the customer, thus there are no significant financing components. “Accounts receivable – net” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets includes both customer and non-customer receivables as follows:
March 31,
2021
December 31, 2020
($ in millions)
Customer$722 $629 
Non-customer222 219 
  Accounts receivable – net$944 $848 
March 31,
2022
December 31, 2021
($ in millions)
Customer$830 $741 
Non-customer240 235 
  Accounts receivable – net$1,070 $976 

Non-customer receivables include non-revenue-relatednon-revenue related amounts due from other railroads, governmental entities, and others. There were no non-current customer receivables at March 31, 2022, while “Other assets” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets includes non-current customer receivables of $23 million at both March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.2021. We do 0tnot have any material contract assets or liabilities at March 31, 20212022 and December 31, 2020.2021.

2.  Stock-Based Compensation
First Quarter
20212020
($ in millions)
Stock-based compensation expense$16 $
Total tax benefit17 26 
First Quarter
20222021
($ in millions)
Stock-based compensation expense$23 $16 
Total tax benefit13 17 

During the first quarter of 2021,2022, we granted stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs) and performance share units (PSUs) pursuant to the Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP), as follows:

First QuarterFirst Quarter
GrantedWeighted-Average Grant-Date Fair ValueGrantedWeighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Stock optionsStock options42,770 $62.49 Stock options132,170 $60.40 
RSUsRSUs174,115 238.03 RSUs154,901 268.48 
PSUsPSUs49,940 240.61 PSUs49,025 274.84 


9


Stock Options
First Quarter
20212020
($ in millions)
Options exercised212,546523,238 
Cash received upon exercise$19 $43 
Related tax benefit realized13 
First Quarter
20222021
($ in millions)
Options exercised119,343212,546 
Cash received upon exercise$10 $19 
Related tax benefits realized

Restricted Stock Units

RSUs granted primarily have a four-year ratable restriction period and will be settled through the issuance of shares of Norfolk Southern common stock (Common Stock). Certain RSU grants include cash dividend equivalent payments during the restriction period in an amount equal to the regular quarterly dividends paid on Common Stock. 
First Quarter
20212020
($ in millions)
RSUs vested257,397 202,299 
Common Stock issued net of tax withholding182,289 143,712 
Related tax benefit realized$$
First Quarter
20222021
($ in millions)
RSUs vested243,301 257,397 
Common Stock issued net of tax withholding172,364 182,289 
Related tax benefits realized$$

Performance Share Units

PSUs provide for awards based on the achievement of certain predetermined corporate performance goals at the end of a three-year cycle and are settled through the issuance of shares of Common Stock. All PSUs will earn out based on the achievement of performance conditions and some will also earn out based on a market condition. The market condition fair value was measured on the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model.

First Quarter
20212020
($ in millions)
PSUs earned78,727 235,935
Common Stock issued net of tax withholding49,967 156,450
Related tax benefit realized$$

3. Loss on Asset Disposal

In 2020, we sold 703 locomotives deemed excess and no longer needed for railroad operations. We evaluated these locomotive retirements and concluded they were abnormal. Accordingly, we recorded a $385 million loss to adjust their carrying amount to their estimated fair value, which resulted in a $97 million tax benefit.
First Quarter
20222021
($ in millions)
PSUs earned86,420 78,727
Common Stock issued net of tax withholding54,651 49,967
Related tax benefits realized$$


10


4.3.  Earnings Per Share

The following table sets forth the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

BasicDiluted BasicDiluted
First Quarter First Quarter
2021202020212020 2022202120222021
($ in millions, except per share amounts,
shares in millions)
($ in millions, except per share amounts,
shares in millions)
Net incomeNet income$673 $381 $673 $381 Net income$703 $673 $703 $673 
Dividend equivalent paymentsDividend equivalent payments(1)(1)(1)Dividend equivalent payments— (1)— — 
Income available to common stockholdersIncome available to common stockholders$672 $380 $673 $380 Income available to common stockholders$703 $672 $703 $673 
Weighted-average shares outstandingWeighted-average shares outstanding251.4 257.3 251.4 257.3 Weighted-average shares outstanding239.3 251.4 239.3 251.4 
Dilutive effect of outstanding options and share-settled awardsDilutive effect of outstanding options and share-settled awards  1.2 1.4 Dilutive effect of outstanding options and share-settled awards  0.9 1.2 
Adjusted weighted-average shares outstandingAdjusted weighted-average shares outstanding  252.6 258.7 Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding  240.2 252.6 
Earnings per shareEarnings per share$2.67 $1.48 $2.66 $1.47 Earnings per share$2.94 $2.67 $2.93 $2.66 

During the first quarters of 20212022 and 2020,2021, dividend equivalent payments were made to certain holders of stock options and RSUs.  For purposes of computing basic earnings per share, dividend equivalent payments made to holders of stock options and RSUs were deducted from net income to determine income available to common stockholders. For purposes of computing diluted earnings per share, we evaluate on a grant-by-grant basis those stock options and RSUs receiving dividend equivalent payments under the two-class and treasury stock methods to determine which method is more dilutive for each grant. For those grants for which the two-class method was more dilutive, net income was reduced by dividend equivalent payments to determine income available to common stockholders. There are 0 options excluded from theThe dilution calculations due toexclude options having exercise prices exceeding the average market price of Common Stock foras follows: 0.1 million and none in the first quarters ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, and 2020.respectively.


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5.4. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

The changes in the cumulative balances of “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consisted of the following:
Balance at
Beginning
of Year
Net IncomeReclassification
Adjustments
Balance at
End of Period
 ($ in millions)    
Three Months Ended March 31, 2021     
Pensions and other postretirement liabilities$(526)$$$(518)
Other comprehensive income (loss) of equity investees(68) (68)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss$(594)$$ $(586)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2020     
Pensions and other postretirement liabilities$(421)$$$(416)
Other comprehensive income (loss) of equity investees(70) (65)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss$(491)$$ $(481)
Balance at
Beginning
of Year
Net IncomeReclassification
Adjustments
Balance at
End of Period
 ($ in millions)    
Three months ended March 31, 2022     
Pensions and other postretirement liabilities$(356)$— $$(352)
Other comprehensive income (loss) of equity investees(46)—  (42)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss$(402)$$ $(394)
Three months ended March 31, 2021     
Pensions and other postretirement liabilities$(526)$— $$(518)
Other comprehensive loss of equity investees(68)— —  (68)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss$(594)$— $ $(586)

6.5.  Stock Repurchase Program
 
We repurchased and retired 2.3retired 2.2 million and 2.62.3 million shares of Common Stock under our stock repurchase program during the first three months of 20212022 and 2020,2021, respectively, at a cost of $600 million and $591 million, and $466 million, respectively. On March 29, 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a new program for the repurchase of up to $10.0 billion of Common Stock beginning April 1, 2022. Our previous share repurchase program terminated on March 31, 2022.

7.6.  Investments

Investment in Conrail
 
Through a limited liability company, we and CSX Corporation (CSX) jointly own Conrail Inc. (Conrail), whose primary subsidiary is Consolidated Rail Corporation (CRC). We have a 58% economic and 50% voting interest in the jointly-owned entity, and CSX has the remainder of the economic and voting interests. Our investment in Conrail was $1.5 billion and $1.4 billion at both March 31, 20212022 and December 31, 2020, respectively.2021.

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 services and rents” and “Fuel” include expenses payable to CRC for operation of the Shared Assets Areas totaling $34$38 million and $35$34 million for the first quarters of 20212022 and 2020,2021, respectively. Our equity in Conrail’s earnings, net of amortization, was $14 million and $9 million for both the first quarters of 20212022 and 2020, respectively.2021. These amounts partially offset the costs of operating the Shared Assets Areas and are included in “Purchased services and rents.”

“Other liabilities” includes $534 million at both March 31, 2021,2022, and December 31, 20202021 for long-term advances from Conrail, maturing in 2050 that bear interest at an average rate of 1.31%.


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Investment in TTX

We and 8 other North American railroads collectively own TTX Company (TTX), a railcar pooling company that provides its owner-railroads with standardized fleets of intermodal, automotive, and general use railcars at stated rates. We have a 19.65% ownership interest in TTX.

Expenses incurred for use of TTX equipment are included in “Purchased services and rents.” This amounted to $63$64 million and $60$63 million for the first quarters of 20212022 and 2020,2021, respectively. Our equity in TTX’s earnings partially offsets these costs and totaled $17$10 million and $4$17 million for the first quarters of 20212022 and 2020,2021, respectively.

8.7.  Debt

In February 2022, we issued $600 million of 3.00% senior notes due 2032 and $400 million of 3.70% senior notes due 2053.

We have in place an accounts receivable securitization program with a maximum borrowing capacity of $400 million and a term that expires in May 2021.2022. We had no amounts outstanding under this program and our available borrowing capacity was $400 million at both March 31, 2021,2022 and December 31, 2020.2021.

9.8.  Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits
 
We have both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans covering eligible employees. We also provide specified health care benefits to eligible retired employees; these plans can be amended or terminated at our option.  Under our self-insured retiree health care plan, for those participants who are not Medicare-eligible, certain health care expenses are covered for retired employees and their dependents, reduced by any deductibles, coinsurance, and, in some cases, coverage provided under other group insurance policies.  Eligible retired participants and their spouses who are Medicare-eligible are not covered under the self-insured retiree health care plan, but instead are provided with an employer-funded health reimbursement account which can be used for reimbursement of health insurance premiums or eligible out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Pension and postretirement benefit cost components were as follows:
   Other Postretirement
 Pension BenefitsBenefits
 First Quarter
 2021202020212020
 ($ in millions)
Service cost$11 $10 $$
Interest cost13 19 
Expected return on plan assets(48)(48)(3)(3)
Amortization of net losses17 13 
Amortization of prior service benefit(6)(6)
Net benefit$(7)$(6)$(5)$(5)
 Pension BenefitsOther Postretirement Benefits
 First Quarter
 2022202120222021
 ($ in millions)
Service cost$10 $11 $$
Interest cost17 13 
Expected return on plan assets(53)(48)(3)(3)
Amortization of net losses12 17 — — 
Amortization of prior service benefit— — (6)(6)
Net benefit$(14)$(7)$(6)$(5)

The service cost component of defined benefit pension cost and postretirement benefit cost are reported within “Compensation and benefits” and all other components of net benefit cost are presented in “Other income (expense) – net” on the Consolidated Statements of Income.


13


10.9.  Fair Values of Financial Instruments
 
The fair values of “Cash and cash equivalents,” “Accounts receivable – net,” and “Accounts payable,” approximate carrying values because of the short maturity of these financial instruments. The carrying value of corporate-owned life insurance is recorded at cash surrender value and, accordingly, approximates fair value. There are no other assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 20212022 or December 31, 2020.2021. The carrying amounts and estimated fair values, based on Level 1 inputs, of long-term debt consist of the following:

 March 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Carrying
Amount
Fair
Value
Carrying
Amount
Fair
Value
 ($ in millions)
Long-term debt, including current maturities$(12,617)$(15,249)$(12,681)$(16,664)
 March 31, 2022December 31, 2021
Carrying
Amount
Fair
Value
Carrying
Amount
Fair
Value
 ($ in millions)
Long-term debt, including current maturities$(14,844)$(16,251)$(13,840)$(17,033)

11.10.  Commitments and Contingencies
 
Lawsuits
 
We and/or certain subsidiaries are defendants in numerous lawsuits and other claims relating principally to railroad operations.  When we conclude 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 and, if material, disclosed below. While the ultimate amount of liability incurred in any of these lawsuits and claims is dependent on future developments, in our 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 become known. For lawsuits and other claims where a loss may be reasonably possible, but not probable, or is probable but not reasonably estimable, no accrual is established but the matter, if potentially material, is disclosed below. We routinely review relevant information with respect to our lawsuits and other claims and update our accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible lossesloss based on such reviews.

In 2007, various antitrust class actions filed against us and other Class I railroads in various Federal district courts regarding fuel surcharges were consolidated in the District of Columbia by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation. In 2012, the court certified the case as a class action. The defendant railroads appealed this certification, and the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia vacated the District Court’s decision and remanded the case for further consideration. On October 10, 2017, the District Court denied class certification. The decision was upheld by the Court of Appeals on August 16, 2019. Since that decision, various individual cases have been filed in multiple jurisdictions and also consolidated in the District of Columbia. We believe the allegations in the complaints are without merit and intend to vigorously defend the cases. We do not believe the outcome of these proceedings will have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

In 2018, a lawsuit was filed against one of our subsidiaries by the minority owner in a jointly-owned terminal railroad company in which our subsidiary has the majority ownership. The lawsuit alleged violations of various state laws and federal antitrust laws. It is reasonably possible that we could incur a loss in the case; however, we intend to vigorously defend the case and believe that we will prevail. The potential range of loss cannot be estimated at this time.

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 our personal injury liability and determining the amount to accrue with respect to such claims during the year, we utilize studies prepared by an independent actuarial consulting actuarial firm.  Job-

14


related personal injury and occupational claims are subject to the Federal Employer’s Liability Act (FELA), which is applicable only to railroads. FELA’s fault-based tort system produces results that are unpredictable and inconsistent as compared with a no-fault workers’ compensation system.  The variability inherent in thisFELA’s fault-based tort 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 our 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, we record a liability when the expected loss for the claim is both probable and reasonably estimable.

Employee personal injury claims – The largest component of claims expense is employee personal injury costs.  The independent actuarial firm we engage provides quarterly studies to aid in valuing our employee personal injury liability and estimating personal injury expense.  The actuarial firm studies our historical patterns of reserving for claims and subsequent settlements, taking into account relevant outside influences.  The actuarial firm uses the results of these analyses to estimate the ultimate amount of liability. We adjust the liability quarterly based upon our assessment and the results of the study. The accuracy of our estimate of the liability is subject to inherent limitation given the difficulty of predicting future events such as jury decisions, court interpretations, or legislative changes. As a result, actual claim settlements may vary from the estimated liability recorded.

Occupational claims – Occupational claims include injuries and illnesses alleged to be caused by exposures which occur over time as opposed to injuries or illnesses caused by a specific accident or event. Types of occupational claims commonly seen allege exposure to asbestos and other claimed toxic substances resulting in respiratory diseases or cancer. 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 our history of claim filings, severity, payments, and other pertinent facts.  The liability is dependent upon judgments we make as to the specific case reserves as well as judgments of the actuarial firm in the quarterly studies.  The actuarial firm’sOur 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 our experience. We adjust the liability quarterly based upon our 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 – We record a liability for third-party claims including those for highway crossing accidents, trespasser and other injuries, property damage, and lading damage.  The actuarial firm assists us with the calculation of potential liability for third-party claims, except lading damage, based upon our experience including the number and timing of incidents, amount of payments, settlement rates, number of open claims, and legal defenses. We adjust the liability quarterly based upon our 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
 
We are subject to various jurisdictions’ environmental laws and regulations.  We record a liability where such liability or loss is probable and reasonably estimable. Environmental specialists regularly participate in ongoing evaluations of all known sites and in determining any necessary adjustments to liability estimates.  

Our Consolidated Balance Sheets include liabilities for environmental exposures of $51$49 million at both March 31, 2021,2022 and $54 million at December 31, 2020,2021, of which $15 million is classified as a current liability at the end of both periods. At both March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020,2022, the liability represents our estimates of the probable cleanup, investigation, and remediation costs based on available information at 10089 known locations and projects.projects compared with 88 locations and projects at December 31, 2021. At March 31, 2021, 172022, 18 sites accounted for $38$37 million of the liability, and no individual site was considered to be material. We anticipate that most of this liability will be paid out over five years; however, some costs will be paid out over a longer period.


15


At 118 locations, one or more of our subsidiaries in conjunction with a number of other parties have been identified as potentially responsible parties under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and

15


Liability Act of 1980 or comparable state statutes that impose joint and several liability for cleanup costs.  We calculate our estimated liability for these sites based on facts and legal defenses applicable to each site and not solely on the basis of the potential for joint liability.

With respect to known environmental sites (whether identified by us or by the Environmental Protection Agency or comparable state authorities), estimates of our ultimate potential financial exposure for a given site or in the aggregate for all such sites can change over time because of the widely varying costs of currently available cleanup techniques, unpredictable contaminant recovery and reduction rates associated with available cleanup technologies, the likely development of new cleanup technologies, the difficulty of determining in advance the nature and full extent of contamination and each potential participant’s share of any estimated loss (and that participant’s ability to bear it), and evolving statutory and regulatory standards governing liability.

The risk of incurring environmental liability for acts and omissions, past, present, and future, is inherent in the railroad business.  Some of the commodities we transport, particularly those classified as hazardous materials, pose special risks that we work diligently to reduce.  In addition, several of our 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 that are latent or undisclosed may exist on these properties, there can be no assurance that we will not incur environmental liabilities or costs with respect to one or more of them, the amount and materiality of which cannot be estimated reliably at this time.  Moreover, lawsuits and claims involving these and potentially other unidentified environmental sites and matters are likely to arise from time to time.  The resulting liabilities could have a significant effect on financial position, results of operations, or liquidity in a particular year or quarter.
 
Based on our assessment of the facts and circumstances now known, we believe we have recorded the probable and reasonably estimable costs for dealing with those environmental matters of which we are aware.  Further, we believe that it is unlikely that any known matters, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.
 
Insurance
 
We purchase insurance covering legal liabilities for bodily injury and property damage to third parties. This insurance provides coverage above $75 million and below $800 million ($1.1 billion for specific perils) per occurrence and/or policy year. In addition, we purchase insurance covering damage to property owned by us or in our care, custody, or control. This insurance covers approximately 85%87% of potential losses above $75 million and below $275 million per occurrence and/or policy year.

12.11. New Accounting Pronouncements

On January 1,In November 2021, we adoptedthe Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update 2019-12,2021-10,Simplifying the Accounting for Income TaxesGovernment Assistance (Topic 832): Disclosures by Business Entities about Government Assistance,” which adds new guidancerequires annual disclosures when an entity has received government assistance. Entities are required to simplifydisclose the types of government assistance received, the accounting treatment for income taxes, changesthat government assistance, and the accounting for certain income tax transactions, and makes other minor changes. There was no material impact toeffect of the government assistance on the financial statements upon adoption.statements. The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2021, and early adoption is permitted. We do not expect this standard to have a material effect on our disclosures. We did not adopt the standard early.


16


Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries
 
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes.
 
OVERVIEW
 
We are one of the nation’s premier transportation companies.companies, moving goods and materials that help drive the U.S. economy. We connect customers to markets and communities to economic opportunity with safe, reliable, and cost-effective shipping solutions. Our Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,300 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers.Columbia. We are a major transporter of industrial products, including agriculture, forest and consumer products, chemicals, and metals and construction materials. In addition, in the East we serve every major container port and operate the most extensive intermodal network in the East andnetwork. We are also a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

Our first-quarter results reflect our sustained focus on margin improvement throughRevenue grew 10% in the first quarter as a result of stronger average revenue per unit. Volumes declined compared to the prior year, partly attributable to lower network velocity, and we are progressing with initiatives to drive organizationalimprove network fluidity and operational efficiencies and growresiliency for our revenue base. Although challenging winter conditions adversely impacted our network, we were able to reduce expenses while absorbingcustomers. We experienced an increase in total volume. As a result, we achieved a record quarterlyfuel commodity prices, which led to higher fuel surcharge revenues and fuel expense. The overall increase in revenue drove improvements in income from railway operating ratio (a measure of the amount of operating revenues consumed by operating expenses) of 61.5 percent and increasedoperations, net income and diluted earnings per share. However, the net impact of fuel prices on revenues and expenses contributed to the degradation of the operating ratio.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the U.S. and global economies and has resulted in ongoing supply chain challenges. We continueare monitoring and reacting to monitor the paceevolving nature of the global economic recovery, particularly as it is influenced by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic, caused significant economic disruption during 2020governmental responses, and continues to generate uncertainty, impacting the health and availability oftheir impacts on our employees and customers’ demand for our services.business, including employee availability. We remain committed to protecting our employees, operating safely, and providing excellent transportation service products for our customers.

SUMMARIZED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
First Quarter
First Quarter20222021% change
20212020% change($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Income from railway operationsIncome from railway operations$1,015 $568 79%Income from railway operations$1,085 $1,015 7%
Net incomeNet income$673 $381 77%Net income$703 $673 4%
Diluted earnings per shareDiluted earnings per share$2.66 $1.47 81%Diluted earnings per share$2.93 $2.66 10%
Railway operating ratio (percent)Railway operating ratio (percent)61.5 78.4 (22%)Railway operating ratio (percent)62.8 61.5 2%

Our first-quarter 2021 financial results reflect significant increases in incomeIncome from railway operations net incomeincreased due to higher railway operating revenues. Revenue growth was driven by higher fuel surcharge revenues and pricing gains, which exceeded the impact of a 5% volume decline. The rise in revenues was offset in part by increased railway operating expenses, driven by higher fuel prices, other inflationary pressures, and service-related costs. Our share repurchase activity resulted in the increase in diluted earnings per share as prior year results were adversely impacted by a $385 million loss on asset disposal related to locomotives sold or designated as held-for-sale. For more information onthat exceeded the impact of this charge, see Note 3. Notwithstanding the prior year loss on asset disposal, railway operating expenses decreased as operational efficiency improvements resultedincrease in reduced employment levels, lower materials costs, and improved fuel efficiency. Additionally, fuel prices were lower compared to 2020. Revenues were higher, a result of increased total volume that was partially offset by lower average revenue per unit as negative mix and lower fuel surcharge revenue more than offset pricing gains. Our railway operating ratio improved to 61.5 percent, a quarterly record.net income.

The following tables adjust our first-quarter 2020 GAAP financial results to exclude the loss on asset disposal. The income tax effect of this non-GAAP adjustment was calculated based on the applicable tax rates to which the non-GAAP adjustment related. We use these non-GAAP financial measures internally and believe this information provides useful supplemental information to investors to facilitate making period-to-period comparisons by excluding the 2020 charge. While we believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are useful in evaluating our

17


business, this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and is not meant to be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, the related financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures may not be the same as similar measures presented by other companies.

Non-GAAP Reconciliation for the First Quarter 2020
ReportedLoss on Asset DisposalAdjusted
(non-GAAP)
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Railway operating expenses$2,057 $(385)$1,672 
Income from railway operations$568 $385 $953 
Income before income taxes$436 $385 $821 
Income taxes$55 $97 $152 
Net income$381 $288 $669 
Diluted earnings per share$1.47 $1.11 $2.58 
Railway operating ratio (percent)78.4 (14.7)63.7 

In the table below, references and comparisons to first-quarter 2020 results use the adjusted, non-GAAP results from the reconciliation in the table above.

First Quarter
2021Adjusted 2020
(non-GAAP)
2021 vs. Adjusted 2020 (non-GAAP)
($ in millions, except per share amounts)% change
Railway operating expenses$1,624 $1,672 (3%)
Income from railway operations$1,015 $953 7%
Income before income taxes$866 $821 5%
Income taxes$193 $152 27%
Net income$673 $669 1%
Diluted earnings per share$2.66 $2.58 3%
Railway operating ratio (percent)61.5 63.7 (3%)



1817


DETAILED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Railway Operating Revenues

The following tables present a comparison of revenues ($ in millions), volumes (units inunits (in thousands), and average revenue per unit ($ per unit) by commodity group.

First Quarter
Revenues20222021% change
Merchandise:
Agriculture, forest and consumer products$573 $539 6%
Chemicals498 459 8%
Metals and construction375 370 1%
Automotive226 240 (6%)
Merchandise1,672 1,608 4%
Intermodal854 719 19%
Coal389 312 25%
Total$2,915 $2,639 10%
First Quarter
Revenues20212020% change
UnitsUnits
Merchandise:Merchandise:Merchandise:
Agriculture, forest and consumer productsAgriculture, forest and consumer products$539 $551 (2%)Agriculture, forest and consumer products177.6 178.3 —%
ChemicalsChemicals459 520 (12%)Chemicals129.4 127.0 2%
Metals and constructionMetals and construction370 367 1%Metals and construction148.0 155.0 (5%)
AutomotiveAutomotive240 234 3%Automotive81.2 93.7 (13%)
MerchandiseMerchandise1,608 1,672 (4%)Merchandise536.2 554.0 (3%)
IntermodalIntermodal719 655 10%Intermodal956.5 1,016.4 (6%)
CoalCoal312 298 5%Coal165.6 166.5 (1%)
TotalTotal$2,639 $2,625 1%Total1,658.3 1,736.9 (5%)

Units
Merchandise:
Agriculture, forest and consumer products178.3 181.5 (2%)
Chemicals127.0 142.3 (11%)
Metals and construction155.0 154.9 —%
Automotive93.7 90.4 4%
Merchandise554.0 569.1 (3%)
Intermodal1,016.4 955.1 6%
Coal166.5 163.5 2%
Total1,736.9 1,687.7 3%

Revenue per UnitRevenue per UnitRevenue per Unit
Merchandise:Merchandise:Merchandise:
Agriculture, forest and consumer productsAgriculture, forest and consumer products$3,026 $3,036 —%Agriculture, forest and consumer products$3,228 $3,026 7%
ChemicalsChemicals3,615 3,653 (1%)Chemicals3,850 3,615 7%
Metals and constructionMetals and construction2,386 2,370 1%Metals and construction2,535 2,386 6%
AutomotiveAutomotive2,557 2,593 (1%)Automotive2,776 2,557 9%
MerchandiseMerchandise2,903 2,939 (1%)Merchandise3,118 2,903 7%
IntermodalIntermodal708 685 3%Intermodal893 708 26%
CoalCoal1,872 1,826 3%Coal2,347 1,872 25%
TotalTotal1,519 1,556 (2%)Total1,758 1,519 16%


1918


Railway operating revenues increased $14$276 million compared with the same period last year. The table below reflects the components of the revenue change by major commodity group ($ in millions).

First QuarterFirst Quarter
Increase (Decrease)MerchandiseIntermodalCoal
MerchandiseIntermodalCoalIncrease (Decrease)
VolumeVolume$(44)$42 $Volume$(51)$(42)$(2)
Fuel surcharge revenueFuel surcharge revenue(25)(6)(3)Fuel surcharge revenue67 73 
Rate, mix and otherRate, mix and other28 11 Rate, mix and other48 104 72 
TotalTotal$(64)$64 $14 Total$64 $135 $77 
 
Approximately 90% of our revenue base is covered by contracts that include negotiated fuel surcharges. Revenues associated with these surcharges totaled $244 million and $97 million in 2022 and $131 million in 2021, and 2020, respectively. The decreaseincrease in fuel surcharge revenues is driven by lowerhigher fuel commodity prices. Should the current fuel price environment persist for the remainder of 2022, we expect fuel surcharge revenue to be higher than 2021.

Merchandise
 
Merchandise revenues decreasedincreased due to volume declines and lowerhigher average revenue per unit a result of lowerdriven by higher fuel surcharge revenue.revenue and increased pricing partially offset by decreased volume. Volumes fell as gainsdeclines in automotive and metals and construction shipments were more than offset by declines in shipments of chemicals and agriculture, forest and consumer products.higher chemical shipments.

Agriculture, forest and consumer products volume decreased, as declines in corn, soybeans, and fertilizers more than offset increases in ethanol and feed. Decreased corn and fertilizer shipments were due to the continued impact of COVID-19 on ethanol demanddecreased customer demand. Soybean volumes were lower due to slower equipment cycle times. Ethanol and the food service industry. This was partially offset by gains in soybeansfeed shipments were higher due to increased export opportunities and gainsdemand in pulpboard due to increased e-commerce demand.those markets.

Chemicals volume declined due to the continued impact from COVID-19 and ongoing challenges in the energy market. Volumes were further impacted by disruptions resulting from winter storms. This was partially offset by volumerose as growth in theshipments of solid waste market due toand natural gas liquids more than offset declines in petroleum. Volume gains for solid waste and natural gas liquids were driven by increased businessgrowth with new and existing customers. Petroleum volume declined as a result of reduced demand.

Metals and construction volume was flat.fell, largely the result of decreased shipments of coil steel, iron and steel driven by commodity pricing and slower equipment cycle times. These declines were partially offset by higher aggregates traffic due to strong demand and rebuilding inventories.

Automotive volume was higher due to increased retail demand and production of vehicles, partially offset by volume declines in vehicle partsdeclined due to plant shutdowns, as a result of the global microchip shortage, and disruptions associated with winter weather.slower equipment cycle times.

Merchandise revenues for the remainder of the year are expected to be higher due to increased volumes and higher average revenue per unit.unit, driven by higher fuel surcharge revenue and pricing gains, and volume growth.

Intermodal
 
Intermodal revenues increased, the result of volume growth anddriven by higher average revenue per unit, driven bya result of higher fuel surcharge revenues, pricing gains and favorable mix.storage service charges, partially offset by lower volume.


2019


Intermodal units (in thousands) by market were as follows:
First Quarter
20212020% change
Domestic639.0 598.3 7%
International377.4 356.8 6%
Total1,016.4 955.1 6%
First Quarter
20222021% change
Domestic653.4 639.0 2%
International303.1 377.4 (20%)
Total956.5 1,016.4 (6%)

Domestic volume grewrose due to increased shipments originating from the West Coaststrong demand, partially offset by labor and tightened truck capacity.capacity constraints, overall supply chain congestion, and limited chassis availability. International volume rose, the result ofdecreased as supply chain constraints with warehousing, drayage, terminals, ports, labor, and equipment more than offset strong importconsumer demand.

Intermodal revenues for the remainder of the year are expected to rise, driven by volume growth and higher average revenue per unit due to increased fuel surcharge revenue.revenue, pricing gains, and volume growth, partially offset by lower storage service revenues.

Coal

Coal revenues increased due to higher average revenue per unit, inclusive of a $12 million settlement for tonnage commitment shortfalls,driven by pricing gains and volume increases.higher fuel surcharge revenue.

Coal tonnage (in thousands) by market was as follows:

First Quarter First Quarter
20212020% change 20222021% change
UtilityUtility8,546 8,898 (4%)Utility8,961 8,546 5%
ExportExport6,693 6,069 10%Export6,414 6,693 (4%)
Domestic metallurgicalDomestic metallurgical2,487 2,276 9%Domestic metallurgical2,430 2,487 (2%)
IndustrialIndustrial899 981 (8%)Industrial803 899 (11%)
TotalTotal18,625 18,224 2%Total18,608 18,625 —%
 
Coal tonnage rosewas flat due to increased utility volume, offset by reduced export, domestic metallurgical, and industrial tonnage. Utility tonnage increased due to strengthened market conditions driven by increased exportnatural gas prices and domesticthe need to replenish depleted inventories. Export tonnage decreased due to service disruptions and tight coal supply. Domestic metallurgical volumes from continued global economic recovery. This was partially offset by a decline in utility tonnage.coal tonnage fell due to reduced coke shipments related to customer sourcing changes. Industrial coal tonnage decreased due to sourcing challenges with coal supply.

Coal revenues for the remainder of the year are expected to decline, a result of lower averagerise due to increased revenue per unit, driven by increased fuel surcharge revenue and reduced utility volume.pricing gains. Volumes are expected to remain flat.


2120


Railway Operating Expenses

Railway operating expenses summarized by major classifications follow ($ in millions):

First QuarterFirst Quarter
20212020% change20222021% change
Compensation and benefitsCompensation and benefits$611 $622 (2%)Compensation and benefits$619 $611 1%
Purchased services and rentsPurchased services and rents393 403 (2%)Purchased services and rents437 393 11%
FuelFuel177 189 (6%)Fuel301 177 70%
DepreciationDepreciation292 292 —%Depreciation302 292 3%
Materials and otherMaterials and other151 166 (9%)Materials and other171 151 13%
Loss on asset disposal— 385 (100%)
TotalTotal$1,624 $2,057 (21%)Total$1,830 $1,624 13%

Compensation and benefits expense decreasedincreased as follows:

employment levels (down $51 million),
health and welfare benefits for craft employees (down $9 million),
overtime and recrews (up $7 million),
increased pay rates (up $10 million),
incentiveovertime (up $9 million),
stock-based and stock-basedincentive compensation (up $22$8 million),
employee activity levels (down $17 million), and
other (up $10(down $2 million).

Average rail headcount for the quarter fellwas down by approximately 2,500over 500 compared with the first quarter of 2020.2021, but up over 200 compared to the fourth quarter of 2021.

Purchased services and rents decreasedincreased as follows ($ in millions):

First QuarterFirst Quarter
20212020% change 20222021% change
Purchased servicesPurchased services$318 $321 (1%)Purchased services$349 $318 10%
Equipment rentsEquipment rents75 82 (9%)Equipment rents88 75 17%
TotalTotal$393 $403 (2%)Total$437 $393 11%

The decrease in purchasedPurchased services wasincreased due to lowerhigher intermodal-related expenses, technology costs, as well as, increased operational and transportation expenses and higher earnings of equity affiliates, which were partially offset by increased technology and volume-related intermodal expenses. Equipment rents decreasedincreased due to higherlower equity in TTX earnings, increased automotive equipment expenses and greater time-and-mileage expense, partially offset by increaseddecreased intermodal equipment expenses.

Fuel expense, which includes the cost of locomotive fuel as well as other fuel used in railway operations, decreasedincreased due to reduced consumption (down 4%) and lowerhigher locomotive fuel prices (up 77%), partially offset by decreased consumption (down 4%2%). Should the current fuel price environment persist for the remainder of 2022, we expect higher fuel expenses compared to 2021.


2221


Materials and other expenses decreasedincreased as follows ($ in millions):  

First QuarterFirst Quarter
20212020% change 20222021% change
MaterialsMaterials$61 $72 (15%)Materials$62 $61 2%
ClaimsClaims38 42 (10%)Claims49 38 29%
OtherOther52 52 —%Other60 52 15%
TotalTotal$151 $166 (9%)Total$171 $151 13%

Materials expenses decreased due to lower maintenance requirementsexpense remained relatively flat. Claims expense increased as a result of fewer locomotives and freight cars in service. Claims expenses decreased as a result of lowerhigher costs associated with personal injuries. Other expense remained unchanged as reducedincreased due to higher sales and use taxes and travel expenses and higher income generated from operating properties was offset by lower gains from sales of operating property.expenses. Gains from operating property sales, included in Other, totaled $6 million and $4 million in 2022 and $11 million in 2021, and 2020, respectively.

Other income (expense) – net

Other income (expense) – net decreased $15$12 million driven primarily bydue to lower net returns on corporate-owned life insurance investments.(COLI) partially offset by a higher net pension benefit.

Income taxes
 
The first-quarter effective tax rate was 22.3%22.9% compared with 12.6% for22.3% in the same period last year. First quarter 2020 included a $19 million income tax reduction upon the resolution of our 2012 amended federal return and higherThe effective rate for 2022 reflects lower tax benefits on stock-based compensation than those in 2021.and returns on COLI.

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
 
Cash provided by operating activities, our principal source of liquidity, was $1.0 billion for both the first three months of 2021, compared with $955 million for the same period of 2020.2022 and 2021. We had negative working capital of $54$132 million and $158$354 million at March 31, 20212022 and December 31, 2020,2021, respectively. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $998 million$1.6 billion at March 31, 2021.2022.

Cash used in investing activities was $202$335 million for the first three months of 2021,2022, compared with $233$202 million for the same period last year. The decreaseincrease was primarily driven by lowerhigher property additions and increased corporate-owned life insurance activity, partially offset by lower property sales.additions.

Cash used inprovided by financing activities was $930$73 million for the first three months of 2021, compared with $6942022, while $930 million was used in financing activities for the same period last year, reflecting increased proceeds from borrowing and lower debt repayments, partially offset by higher repurchases of Common Stock and debt repayments.dividends. We repurchased $591$600 million of Common Stock in the first three months of 20212022 compared to $466$591 million in the same period last year.  On March 29, 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a new program for the repurchase of up to an additional $10.0 billion of Common Stock beginning April 1, 2022. Our previous share repurchase program terminated on March 31, 2022. The timing and volume of future share repurchases will be guided by our assessment of market conditions cash flow and other pertinent factors. Repurchases may be executed in the open market, through derivatives, accelerated repurchase and other negotiated transactions and through plans designed to comply with Rule 10b5-1(c) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. Any near-term purchases under the program are expected to be made with internally-generated cash, cash on hand, or proceeds from borrowings.

In February 2022, we issued $600 million of 3.00% senior notes due 2032 and $400 million of 3.70% senior notes due 2053.

Our debt-to-total capitalization ratio was 46.3%52.4% at March 31, 2021,2022, and 46.2%50.4% at December 31, 2020.2021. We have in place and available an $800 million credit agreement expiring in March 2025, which provides for borrowings at

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prevailing rates and includes covenants. We had no amounts outstanding under this facility at March 31, 20212022 or December 31, 2020.2021. We also have in place an accounts receivable securitization program with a maximum borrowing capacity of $400 million. The term expires in May 2021.2022. We had no amounts outstanding under this program and our available borrowing capacity was $400 million at both March 31, 20212022, and December 31, 2020.2021.

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In addition, we have investments in general purpose corporate-owned life insurance policies and had the ability to borrow against these policies up to $720$675 million and $750$715 million at March 31, 20212022 and December 31, 2020,2021, respectively.

We expect cash on hand combined with cash provided by operating activities will be sufficient to meet our ongoing obligations. In addition, we believe our currently-available borrowing capacity, access to additional financing, and ability to reduce or defer expenditures on property additions and decrease shareholder distributions, including share repurchases, provide additional flexibility to meet our ongoing obligations. Nonetheless, we are monitoring the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which could lead to a decline of cash inflows from operations. There have been no material changes to the information on future contractual obligations, including those that may have material cash requirements, contained in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020.2021, with the exception of additional senior notes (see Note 7) and $1.0 billion of additional unconditional purchase obligations, which extend through 2025.

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIESESTIMATES
 
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires us 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 revenue and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates and assumptions may require judgment about matters that are inherently uncertain, and future events are likely to occur that may require us to make changes to these estimates and assumptions. Accordingly, we regularly review these estimates and assumptions based on historical experience, changes in the business environment, and other factors we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances.  There have been no significant changes to the application of the critical accounting policiesestimates contained in our Form 10-K at December 31, 2020. 2021.

OTHER MATTERS
 
Labor Agreements

Approximately 80% of our railroad employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions.  Pursuant to the Railway Labor Act, these agreements remain in effect until new agreements are reached, or until the bargaining procedures mandated by the Railway Labor Act are completed.  We largely bargain nationally in concert with other major railroads, represented by the National Carriers’ Conference Committee.  Moratorium provisions in the labor agreements govern when the railroads and unions may propose changes to the agreements. The current round of bargaining commenced on November 1, 2019, with both management and the unions serving their formal proposals for changes to the collective bargaining agreements, and direct negotiations are ongoing.ongoing with the assistance of mediators assigned by the National Mediation Board.

New Accounting Pronouncements

For a detailed discussion of new accounting pronouncements, see Note 12.11.

Inflation

In preparing financial statements, GAAP requires the use of historical cost that disregards the effects of inflation on the replacement cost of property.  As a capital-intensive company, we have most of our capital invested in long-livedlong-

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lived assets.  The replacement cost of these assets, as well as the related depreciation expense, would be substantially greater than the amounts reported on the basis of historical cost.


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
Certain statements in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended.  These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or our achievements or those of our industry to be materially different from those expressed

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or implied by any forward-looking statements.  In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “consider,” “predict,” “potential,” “feel,” or other comparable terminology.  We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates, beliefs, and projections. While we believe these expectations, assumptions, estimates, beliefs, and projections are reasonable, such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond our control.  These and other important factors, including those discussed under “Risk Factors” in our latest Form 10-K, as well as our subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.  The forward-looking statements herein are made only as of the date they were first issued, and unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws, we disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Additional Information

Investors and others should note that we routinely use the Investor Relations, Performance Metrics, and Sustainability sections of our website (www.norfolksouthern.com/content/nscorp/en/investor-relations.html, http://www.nscorp.com/content/nscorp/en/investor-relations/performance-metrics.html & www.nscorp.com/content/nscorp/en/about-ns/sustainability.html) to post presentations to investors and other important information, including information that may be deemed material to investors. Information about us, including information that may be deemed material, may also be announced by posts on our social media channels, including Twitter (www.twitter.com/nscorp) and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/norfolk-southern). We may also use our website and social media channels for the purpose of complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. As a result, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in Norfolk Southern to review the information posted on our website and social media channels. The information posted on our website and social media channels is not incorporated by reference in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
The information required by this item is included in Part I, Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” under the heading “Financial Condition and Liquidity.”
 
Item 4.  Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, with the assistance of management, evaluated the effectiveness of our 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 (Exchange Act)) at March 31, 2021.2022.  Based on such evaluation, our officers have concluded that, at March 31, 2021,2022, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in alerting them on a timely basis to material information required to be included in our periodic filings under the Exchange Act.

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Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
During the first quarter of 2021,2022, we have not identified any changes in internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.  Legal Proceedings
 
In 2007, various antitrust class actions filed against usFor information on our legal proceedings, see Note 10 “Commitments and other Class I railroads in various Federal district courts regarding fuel surcharges were consolidatedContingencies” in the District of Columbia by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation. In 2012, the court certified the case as a class action. The defendant railroads appealed this certification, and the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia vacated the District Court’s decision and remanded the case for further consideration. On October 10, 2017, the District Court denied class certification. The decision was upheld by the Court of Appeals on August 16, 2019. Since that decision, various individual cases have been filed in multiple jurisdictions and also consolidated in the District of Columbia. We believe the allegations in the complaints are without merit and intend to vigorously defend the cases. We do not believe the outcome of these proceedings will have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

In 2018, a lawsuit was filed against one of our subsidiaries by the minority owner in a jointly-owned terminal railroad company in which our subsidiary has the majority ownership. The lawsuit alleged violations of various state laws and federal antitrust laws. It is reasonably possible that we could incur a loss in the case; however, we intend to vigorously defend the case and believe that we will prevail. The potential range of loss cannot be estimated at this time.Consolidated Financial Statements.

Item 1A. Risk Factors
 
The risks set forth in “Risk Factors” included in our 20202021 Form 10-K could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity in a particular year or quarter, and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements. Those risks remain unchanged and are incorporated herein by reference.

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

Period
(a) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased (1)
(a) Total Number of Shares (or Units)
(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, 2021516,139  $246.03 515,572  20,173,200  
February 1-28, 2021806,030  250.96 806,030  19,367,170  
March 1-31, 20211,003,194  260.81 1,002,802  18,364,368  
Total2,325,363   2,324,404    
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, 2022710,845  $282.97 710,641  7,329,432  
February 1-28, 2022713,439  268.21 713,439  6,615,993  
March 1-31, 2022755,546  274.63 754,866  5,861,127  
Total2,179,830   2,178,946    
 
(1)Of this amount, 959884 represent shares tendered by employees in connection with the exercise of options under the stockholder-approved Long-Term Incentive Plan.LTIP.
(2)On September 26, 2017, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an additional 50 million shares of Common Stock through December 31, 2022. AsOn March 29, 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a new program for the repurchase of up to $10.0 billion of Common Stock beginning April 1, 2022. Our previous share repurchase program terminated on March 31, 2021, 18.4 million shares remain authorized for repurchase.2022.

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.


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Item 5.  Other Information

None.


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Item 6. Exhibits
 
1.1
4.1
31-A*
31-B*
32*
101*
The following financial information from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the first quarter of 2021,2022, formatted in Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language (iXBRL) includes (i) the Consolidated Statements of Income for the first quarter of 20212022 and 2020;2021; (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the first quarter of 20212022 and 2020;2021; (iii) the Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 20212022 and December 31, 2020;2021; (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the first three months of 20212022 and 2020;2021; (v) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the first quarter of 20212022 and 2020;2021; and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
104*Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).
*  Filed herewith.


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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:April 28, 202127, 2022/s/ Clyde H. Allison, Jr.Claiborne L. Moore
Clyde H. Allison, Jr.Claiborne L. Moore
Vice President and Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer) (Signature)
Date:April 28, 202127, 2022/s/ Denise W. Hutson
Denise W. Hutson
Corporate Secretary (Signature)


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