Challenge Group is set to further strengthen its international cargo network with the launch of two new direct freighter services linking Liège Airport (LGG) with Mumbai (BOM) and Shanghai (PVG). Scheduled to commence on July 2, 2026, the new operations represent a strategic investment in two of the world’s most influential manufacturing, trade and logistics markets.
Operated using Boeing 777-300ERSF freighters, the new routes are designed to enhance cargo connectivity between Asia, Europe, the United States and South America, while supporting customers facing increasingly complex global supply chain requirements.
The expansion marks a significant step in the company’s long-term growth strategy and reflects its ambition to build a more integrated and resilient logistics network capable of serving key global trade corridors.
In India, Challenge Group is upgrading its existing cargo operations by replacing three weekly Boeing 767 freighter flights with two weekly Boeing 777-300ERSF services. The transition to the larger aircraft will provide greater cargo capacity, improved efficiency and enhanced connectivity for customers operating in one of the world’s fastest-growing economic markets.
At the same time, the company is expanding its footprint in China through the introduction of a new Shanghai route. The service will complement Challenge Group’s established operations between Liège and Zhengzhou (CGO), where it already operates ten weekly rotations. The addition of Shanghai creates new opportunities for cargo flows and strengthens links between major industrial and commercial centres across multiple continents.
The Mumbai route will operate twice per week, while the Shanghai service will offer three weekly frequencies. Both routes will be served by the Boeing 777-300ERSF fleet, providing customers with access to one of the most capable and efficient freighter aircraft currently available in the market.
The new services are expected to support a broad range of cargo sectors, including pharmaceuticals, life sciences products, technology shipments, industrial equipment, project cargo, special loads and high-value commodities. Combined with the company’s road feeder network, cargo handling expertise and end-to-end logistics solutions, the routes further enhance Challenge Group’s ability to deliver integrated transportation services worldwide.
Commenting on the expansion, Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer of Challenge Group, described the launch as an important milestone in the company’s development.
“These new services are much more than additional flights. They represent another important step in the execution of our long-term growth strategy and our commitment to building a stronger global cargo logistics network for our customers,” he said.
Zak emphasized the growing importance of India and China in global trade, noting that direct access to both markets will create new opportunities for customers while reinforcing trade links between Asia, Europe, North America and South America.
“As supply chains continue to evolve, customers are increasingly looking for partners capable of providing flexible, reliable and fully integrated logistics solutions. These new routes strengthen our ability to deliver exactly that while creating a foundation for future growth,” he added.
Challenge Group CEO Yossi Shoukroun echoed this vision, stating that the new services form part of a much broader expansion strategy aimed at strengthening the company’s global presence.
According to Shoukroun, the Group continues to invest heavily in its fleet, network infrastructure, workforce and operational capabilities to stay ahead of future customer requirements and emerging market demands.
While the launch of the Mumbai and Shanghai routes represents a major achievement, he stressed that it is only one stage in the company’s wider development roadmap, with additional network expansion projects already under consideration.
By adding direct connectivity to two of Asia’s most important cargo gateways, Challenge Group is reinforcing its position as a global logistics provider focused on delivering tailored, integrated and end-to-end transportation solutions while supporting the evolving needs of international trade.
