Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer, Challenge Group.

At the IATA World Cargo Symposium 2025 in Dubai, Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer of Challenge Group, sits down with Rajarshi Chatterjee, Assistant Editor at STAT Media Group, to discuss the airline’s fleet transformation and growing focus on sustainability and efficiency.

Zak shares insights into the completion of Challenge Group’s 767 passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion programme and what it means for the group’s operational strategy—especially as it transitions from the aging Boeing 747 fleet. He explains how the 767s are enabling more reliable, frequent, and regionally tailored services, particularly in key markets like India.

The conversation also highlights the rise of conversion programmes amid delivery delays from OEMs like Airbus and Boeing, the environmental and cost advantages of P2F conversions, and why repurposing aircraft is becoming central to Challenge Group’s long-term vision

00:00 What happens to aircrafts when they get old?
01:40 From 747 to 767: Impact on Challenge Group's operations
03:27 Challenge Group's operations in India
04:06 What strategic advantages does Challenge Group see in 777-300 conversion programs
06:25 Advantages of converted aircraft over factory-built freighters?
08:40 How is Challenge Group approaching sustainability?
11:12 SAF for long-haul, hydrogen for short-haul—future flight paths?
12:38 The future of air cargo from Challenge Group's perspective