Each year, Challenge Group manages the movement of approximately 8,000 horses, with over 5,000 of these transported on its own fleet
Challenge Group has successfully renewed its IATA CEIV Live Animals Certification following sustained investments in specialised teams, infrastructure and safe and professional transportation of live animals.
One of the major focal points for Challenge's animal transport operations is the Horse Inn facility in Liège, which is designed to ensure horses travel safely, comfortably, and with the highest standards of care.
Employees are trained to IATA standards and oversee every detail of the live animal transport process to ensure the welfare of the horses.
Alongside its people, Challenge Group has developed tailored equipment and processes to support its operations. These include ULDs, areas for the cleaning and storage of stalls, and a prototype horse trailer that enables rapid, safe transfers between the Horse Inn and the aircraft.
Each year, Challenge Group manages the movement of approximately 8,000 horses, with over 5,000 of these transported on its own fleet of Boeing 747 aircraft, primarily across the Atlantic.
The aircraft are equipped to support the welfare of horses, with pre-cooling systems, temperature-control and designated seating for grooms.
As global demand for livestock transport continues to grow, Challenge Group has seen increasing activity in its charter division with dedicated flights often taking place from France and Denmark to Asia, while seasonal horse movements and major equestrian competitions add further momentum to this specialised vertical.
Most recently, Challenge Group transported elite horses to Canada for the 50th anniversary of Spruce Meadows, one of the world’s most prestigious equestrian events.
Or Zak, chief commercial officer of Challenge Group, said: “Thanks to the commitment of our vertical and operational teams, and the support of the IATA Certification Auditors, we are glad to be recertified.
"This achievement reaffirms our dedication to operational excellence and raising standards in this highly specialised vertical. We are proud to offer our customers a top-notch service, complemented by a wide range of ancillary logistics solutions, making our end-to-end product value proposition the best answer to their global logistics needs.”
