United Airlines is reportedly gearing up to play a key role in the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine produced by Rockland-based Pfizer.

According to the Wall Street Journal, United began operating charter flights on Friday to position doses of the vaccine if and when the FDA gives emergency authorization approval.

The flights are between Chicago and Brussels, where Pfizer has a vaccine manufacturing facility.

The FAA released a statement saying it is now working with other airlines to safely transport coronavirus vaccines.

Pfizer has already announced it can produce up to 50 million doses this year after its final clinical Phase 3 trial showed a 95% success rate.

A United spokesperson released a statement saying, "United Cargo established a COVID Readiness Task Team earlier this summer to help ensure we have the right people, products, services, and partnerships in place to support a vaccine distribution effort on a global scale. We have made a commitment to our pharmaceutical and medical customers that we are ready to safely and effectively support their vaccines transportation needs. The safety and security of these commodities is our priority and we are proud to be a trusted partner in these efforts."