Qatar Airways Cargo launches new routes

Qatar Airways Cargo has added to its network of 18 worldwide destinations by starting operations to Zaragoza, in northern Spain and Sialkot, in Pakistan.

The new routes will be operated once weekly, using an A300-600 freighter.

The company hopes that by focusing on Zaragoza's commercial and manufacturing base, it will be able to leverage revenue from major local industries, which include textiles, agriculture, footwear, automobiles and pharmaceuticals.

"Qatar Airways is committed to growing its cargo routes network further with exciting plans to introduce more cities as brand new freighters join the fleet," announced Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways. "Zaragoza is a new route about which we are extremely excited, as it taps into the vast potential of this important part of Europe."

Al Baker also added that the operator had made significant strides in building up its passenger network over the past decade and was now stepping up a gear to develop the cargo side of the business.

Meanwhile, officials at Sialkot International Airport Ltd (SIAL) confirmed that the Doha-based freight carrier had signed a memorandum of understanding that will eventually see Qatar Airways Cargo launch once-weekly direct cargo flights to the Pakistani city.

"We have a strong commitment to strengthen our cargo network as we explore diverse and exciting cities such as Sialkot, which has an established export business in the textile, surgical and sporting goods industries," said Al Baker.

"Sialkot is a perfect addition to the airline's already-strong Pakistan network, where we already have two other cargo and four passenger routes."

Sialkot is one of Pakistan's most populous cities, and is situated in the Punjab region, close to Kashmir.

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