Cargoitalia, an all-cargo airline based in Milan, Italy, will begin twice-weekly service to Atlanta February 3. "Atlanta is one of the most important air cargo gateways in the U.S.A., and we consider it a must-have city in our growing network," said Roberto Gilardoni, Cargoitalia commercial director. "The facilities [in Atlanta] are impressive, and we greatly appreciate the help and support they have shown to their newest guest airline. We have great optimism about our potential in this market."

Cargoitalia operates a fleet of MD-11 SF all-cargo aircraft based at Milan's Malpensa Airport. It offers service to destinations in North America, the Middle East and the Far East. "Cargoitalia's decision to begin air cargo service to Atlanta furthers our position as one of the world's premier logistics hubs and centers for supply chain management," said Bob Pertierra, vice president of supply chain development for the Metro Atlanta Chamber. "This new trade lane enables companies in Atlanta and the Southeastern United States to gain access to even more customers and markets in Italy and Europe."

Air cargo continues to grow at Hartsfield-Jackson. According to Airport data, air cargo increased by more than 18 percent from 2009 to 2010. Cargoitalia is the 15th all-cargo airline to serve Hartsfield-Jackson and the region. Other cargo carriers to begin operating in Atlanta recently are Asiana Airlines, which began cargo service in September 2010, and Singapore Airlines Cargo, which began scheduled service to Atlanta in September 2009.

Source: Hartsfield-Jackson International