Cargo specialist Challenge Group is to wet-lease one of Kalitta Air’s newly-delivered Boeing 777-300ER converted freighters, ahead of acquiring its own examples of the twinjet.
Challenge Group disclosed at the beginning of this year that it planned to take the 777-300ERSF – the designation of the new freighter, converted by Israel Aerospace Industries – for its Maltese division.
It has indicated that it could ultimately acquire up to 10.
Kalitta Air, the 777-300ERSF launch operator, has already taken delivery of its first two aircraft through a lease with AerCap Cargo.
It has entered a partnership under which airframe N771CK will be operated on international routes under a wet-lease for Challenge Group.
Kalitta Air chief operating officer Heath Nicholl says the carrier aims to demonstrate the 777-300ERSF’s capabilities through a deployment on routes between Tel Aviv and Hong Kong, via Dubai.
Challenge Group states that the agreement will enable it to “evaluate the aircraft’s operational performance” and “gain hands-on experience” with the freighter, in preparation for delivery of its own 777-300ERSF – also leased from AerCap – later this year.
“This collaboration represents an important milestone for both companies,” adds Challenge Group. “It sets the stage for the introduction of one of the most advanced and efficient freighter aircraft in the industry.”
Challenge Group says the Kalitta arrangement will “ensure a seamless transition” to the new cargo type.
“It provides us with the opportunity to test and familiarise ourselves,” says chief commercial officer Or Zak, “ensuring that when our first converted aircraft arrives, we are fully prepared to operate it at the highest standards.”
