Challenge Group has completed its Boeing 767 conversion programme with the deployment of two newly converted 767-300 freighters.
It now has – as planned – four B767-300BDSF aircraft in its fleet, the first of which was delivered in autumn last year.
Each aircraft has a cargo capacity of approximately 400m3 and is able to carry up to 52 tons. The converted aircraft also include features such as reinforced floors and wide cargo doors for large shipments, while also said to benefit from ‘optimised fuel efficiency’ that make them ideal for operations on both short- and medium-haul routes.
The addition of these further freighters to the fleet enabled the launch of a new service to Delhi early this month (October), a connection that complements the three pre-existing weekly frequencies to Mumbai and takes to five the number of weekly flights offered to cater to Indian industry verticals including the pharmaceuticals, automotive, textiles, electronics and high-tech businesses.
The addition of these freighters has, Challenge Group said, also freed up capacity on its Boeing 747 aircraft, allowing for increased long-haul destinations and enhanced connectivity between Europe, the Far East and the US with that aircraft type.
Challenge Group now operates a total of 10 aircraft.
“The introduction of these two B767-300 freighters is a significant step forward in Challenge Group’s strategic expansion,” enthused Or Zak, the Group’s chief commercial officer.
“Their versatility and fuel efficiency empower us to increase flight frequencies, enhance flexibility for charter operations, and explore new market opportunities.”
Plus, Zak added: “These aircraft will help meet the rising demand for complex verticals and e-commerce, reinforcing Challenge Group’s leadership in the air cargo industry.”
Challenge Group operates its fleet of 747 and 767 freighters across three airlines: Challenge Airlines IL in Israel, Challenge Airlines BE in Belgium and Challenge Airlines MT in Malta.
It also has a commercial division (Challenge Air Cargo), a ground handling company (Challenge Handling in Liege, Belgium), a road feeder services provider (Challenge Logistics), an aircraft and parts leasing division (Challenge Aviation) and a line maintenance provider (Challenge Technic).
The company has tripled its capacity over the past four years, now handling over 500,000 tons of cargo a year.
