The long wait is over for Challenge Airlines MT as the cargo carrier received its air operator certificate (AOC) on 2 November.

With two B767-300ERs offering a payload of 60 tonnes each, Challenge Airlines MT will use its pool of 10 pilots to operate specific routes from the Group’s Liège air hub (LGG) in Belgium.

The airline expects to transport perishables and pharma with sea-air connections in the short term with plans to include high-yield long-haul shipments for e-commerce and other specialist services for horses and automotives in the long term. Similar to its two other counterparts in Israel and Belgiul, Challenge Airlines MT will operate regular services between LGG, Tel Aviv (TLV), Sharjah (SHJ), New York (JFK), and Mumbai (BOM).