Challenge’s first 777-300 freighter conversion adds valuable capacity
Challenge Group’s first Boeing 777-300 passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion is now operational in its fleet and helping the business handle complex shipments.
The Group launched its 777-300ERSF (extended range special freighter) conversion programme in May last year, in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
According to fleet tracking website Planespotters, Challenge added its first 777-300 conversion last month. The 18-year-old aircraft, registered as 9H-CAZ, was converted in January.
Challenge Handling said in a LinkedIn post today: “With the addition of Boeing 777 – 300 ERSF to the Challenge Group fleet, Challenge Handling is ready to handle a new level of cargo operations at Liege Airport.
“More capacity means more opportunities to support complex shipments with efficiency and care. From pharma and live animals to oversized cargo and sensitive goods.”
Another five conversions of the type are due for delivery, the data shows.
Challenge’s 777-300 conversion plans announced in May 2025 allowed for the conversion of four aircraft with options for an additional four.
However, the Group had also signed a deal with lessor AerCap in January 2025 to add two Boeing 777-300ERSF freighters converted by IAI to its fleet.
And in October 2025, Challenge established an ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) agreement with Kalitta Air for the operation of a 777-300ERSF.
Additionally, Cargo Facts reported this week that Challenge is due to acquire two more ex-Jet Airways 777-300ERs that it will use as conversion feedstock.
This means that Challenge could eventually operate more than 10 777-300ERSFs.
Each 777-300ERSF has a payload capacity of nearly 100 tons.
Planespotters’ data shows that Challenge has six 747-400 freighters, one of which is a conversion. It also has four 767-300P2Fs.
