Challenge Group Expands Operations with Nairobi Flights

As Valentine’s Day approaches, Challenge Group is experiencing a busy period. Two months ago, the company began weekly flight operations into Nairobi, deploying a Boeing 767-300BDSF freighter aircraft to connect this key market with Europe and beyond. Since then, capacity has tripled, with certain flights upgraded to a Boeing 747-400F freighter aircraft.

This new destination is Challenge Group’s first in Africa and addresses the ongoing airfreight capacity crunch across the continent. Through strategic alliances and strong local partnerships, Nairobi has emerged as a vital gateway, enabling access to other critical destinations within Africa.

In the past two weeks, Challenge Handling in Liège has managed over 30 flights from various customers, transporting more than 3,000 tons of fresh flowers.

The state-of-the-art facility offers a fast-track system capable of handling the simultaneous loading of two Boeing 747-400F freighters. Additionally, it provides a dedicated cool area for post-flight treatment, cooling, and sorting, along with expedited customs clearance. These features enhance Liège Airport’s reputation as a top-tier gateway and competitive hub for perishable goods, ensuring faster access to key European markets.

“With Nairobi as our first African destination, we are committed to supporting our customers’ needs and delivering our services wherever required,” said Or Zak, Challenge Group’s chief commercial officer. “Backed by nearly five decades of expertise in transporting perishable goods, we provide end-to-end logistics solutions tailored for this specific sector. Additionally, our operations in Nairobi support a crucial local industry, reinforcing our role as a key enabler of global trade.”

Zak added, “The upcoming Air Cargo Africa conference and exhibition presents the perfect opportunity for our sales team to engage with both existing and prospective customers, strengthen business relationships, and explore new opportunities to further expand our footprint across the continent.”

As Challenge Group continues to grow, it remains dedicated to providing innovative logistics solutions that empower global trade and connect key markets efficiently.