Qatar Airways Cargo has completed its inaugural freighter service to Pittsburgh International Airport.

“It is a proud moment for us to be the first international airline to commence scheduled freighter services to Pittsburgh, bridging the air cargo gap between Americas, Europe and Asia,” said Akbar Al Baker, group chief executive of Qatar Airways. “The launch of this new route strengthens our commitment to supporting the American import and export markets and offers a direct freighter connection out of Pennsylvania to Qatar Airways Cargo’s expansive global network.”

Pittsburgh was historically known for its steel industry but now has a diversified manufacturing industry including the chemicals, life sciences, robotics, healthcare, information technology, nuclear engineering and energy sectors. Qatar Airways Cargo expects to carry products such as heavy electronics, high-value goods and pharmaceuticals into and out of the city.

“We are thrilled that Qatar Airways Cargo has selected Pittsburgh as its next North American cargo destination,” said Christina Cassotis, chief executive officer of Pittsburgh International Airport. “Known for its world-class service, we are excited to welcome them as the first international cargo service to fly from Pittsburgh International Airport. I thank Qatar Airways Cargo for partnering with us and recognizing the demand and opportunity here in Pittsburgh. This global air freight connectivity positions Pittsburgh International as a logistics centre for importing and exporting our region’s goods.”

The new flight is operated twice a week with a Boeing 777F, which can carry approximately 100 tonnes of cargo.

Pittsburgh becomes Qatar Airways Cargo’s 13^th Americas destination in its freighter network and the 17^th in the combined belly and freighter network. Pittsburgh is also the fourth freighter-only destination, along with Halifax, Mexico City and Quito.

The schedule for the new flight is as follows.