Boston’s Logan International Airport has marked Qatar Airways’ new route to Boston with an exclusive flag-raising ceremony.
The ceremony also included the playing of the Qatari and American national anthems. Qatar Airways launched daily, non-stop services to Boston on March 16.
Akbar al-Baker, Group chief executive of Qatar Airways, travelled to Boston and led a delegation from the airline, and was met by Massport CEO Thomas P Glynn and Massport director of aviation Edward Freni with a red-carpet welcome, followed by a flag-raising ceremony in the departures zone.
The “Gallery of Flags” is unique to Boston Logan International Airport in that it marks the countries of all carriers that fly from international terminal E. A total of 33 countries have flags raised and Qatar Airways is the latest to receive the official welcome, with Qatar’s flag now on display.
Major William N Christianson, Massport director of aviation security, and Pat Moscaritolo, president and CEO of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau, joined the official delegation for the playing of both nations’ national anthems, and the flag-raising ceremony.
Several officials from the airline and Massport as well as travellers witnessed the event in the departures area at Logan airport.
During the ceremony, Glynn hailed Qatar Airways as an “innovative leader in the aviation industry,” and the airline was acknowledged for its dedication and passion in its service commitment to its passengers.
An official exchange of cultural artefacts of the two cities was also held. The final moment of the ceremony was the raising of Qatar’s flag.
“We are pleased to welcome Qatar Airways to Boston Logan. With its award-winning service and modern fleet, Qatar Airways offers New England new opportunities for travel and ways to connect to the global economy,” said Freni. “The airline also provides a new way for people from around the globe to come to Boston and appreciate all that the city has to offer.”
During his speech, al-Baker said: “Global aviation truly has the power to transcend borders, and we are honoured by Boston Logan International Airport’s incredible hospitality and are proud to raise the flag of Qatar, our home, as we celebrate a new era of opportunity and co-operation between Boston and Doha.”

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