Abstract: An apparatus for transporting filter rod sections between the outlet of a magazine and the inlet of a pneumatic conveyor has a rotary drum with axially parallel peripheral flutes for the transfer of filter rod sections from the magazine into alignment with the inlet of the pneumatic conveyor. A pneumatic ejector is used to propel filter rod sections from successive flutes into the inlet of the pneumatic conveyor. The drum is discontinuously driven by an electric motor which accelerates the drum subsequent to each ejection of a filter rod section into the inlet of the pneumatic conveyor and at least decelerates the drum prior to movement of a flute into register with the inlet of the pneumatic conveyor and/or during ejection of filter rod sections from successive flutes.