Challenge Group Broadens Reach with Expansion into Africa

Challenge Group has entered the African market with the launch of a new cargo route connecting its hub at Liege Airport (LGG) in Belgium to Nairobi (NBO) in Kenya.

The service, which commenced on December 2, operates twice weekly on Mondays and Thursdays using a Boeing 767 freighter. The aircraft offers a cargo capacity of approximately 400 cubic meters and can carry up to 52 tons.

Meeting Growing Demand in Africa

Nairobi, a crucial hub for perishable goods, is a key market for Challenge Group’s expansion into Africa. The company aims to address the rising demand for airfreight solutions across the continent.

“Our decision to launch flights to Nairobi is driven by our customer-centric approach,” said Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer at Challenge Group. “With increasing airfreight demand from Africa, we’re thrilled to provide reliable access to this emerging market. By connecting Nairobi to our hub in Liege, we are enhancing Liege’s role as a competitive, well-equipped center for handling and distributing perishable cargo.”

Global Expansion Strategy

The Nairobi route follows a period of rapid growth for Challenge Group. In October, the company expanded its Indian operations with a new service to Delhi. Earlier in the year, it introduced a scheduled freighter service from Liege to Dubai World Central (DWC) via Tel Aviv (TLV).

The company also recently completed its Boeing 767 conversion program, adding two newly converted 767-300 freighters to its fleet. With four Boeing 767-300BDSF aircraft now in operation, the addition has freed capacity on its Boeing 747 freighters, enabling increased long-haul services and enhanced connectivity between Europe, the Far East, and the United States.

Fleet and Operations

Challenge Group now operates a fleet of 10 freighter aircraft, comprising Boeing 747s and 767s. Its operations span three airlines: Challenge Airlines IL in Israel, Challenge Airlines BE in Belgium, and Challenge Airlines MT in Malta.

This latest expansion into Africa underscores Challenge Group’s commitment to meeting global airfreight needs, offering dependable and efficient cargo solutions in emerging and established markets alike.