Challenge Group, Kalitta Air partner on 777-300ERSF operations
The deal allows Challenge Group to gain hands-on experience with the 777-300ERSF before receiving its own aircraft.
Challenge Group has announced a strategic ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) partnership with Kalitta Air for the operation of a Boeing 777-300ERSF (N771CK), marking its first international deployment on the route connecting Tel Aviv – Hong Kong – Tel Aviv via Dubai.
The collaboration marks a key milestone for both companies, paving the way for the introduction of one of the industry’s most advanced and efficient freighter aircraft, according to an official release from Challenge Group.
The partnership will enable Challenge Group to assess the aircraft’s operational performance and gain practical experience with the Boeing 777-300ERSF platform ahead of receiving its own aircraft of the same type later this year.
“This partnership with Kalitta Air is a significant step in our long-term strategy to integrate the Boeing 777-300ERSF into our fleet. It provides us with the opportunity to test and familiarise ourselves with this new aircraft type, ensuring that when our first converted aircraft arrives, we are fully prepared to operate it at the highest standards. This will ultimately allow us to offer our customers a more efficient, flexible, and environmentally responsible air cargo solution,” says Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer at Challenge Group.
Challenge Group’s first Boeing 777-300ERSF, leased from AerCap and registered under the Maltese Air Operator Certificate (AOC), will be the first of its kind ever registered in the EASA region.
Through this ACMI partnership with Kalitta Air, Challenge Group is proactively preparing for a smooth transition to the new aircraft type, aiming to maximise operational efficiency, strengthen its network capabilities, and offer more sustainable solutions to customers, the release added.
“We are pleased to partner with Challenge Group on the introduction of the first-of-its-kind Boeing 777-300ERSF into international service. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to supporting a valued customer with reliable, efficient, and flexible air cargo solutions. We look forward to demonstrating the aircraft’s capabilities while delivering dependable ACMI service throughout the operation,” says Heath Nicholl, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President of Kalitta Air.
