5C
ICL
37
Last updated: January 28, 2026
About
Challenge Airlines IL, formerly known as CAL Cargo Airlines until its 2022 rebranding, is an Israeli cargo airline headquartered at Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv. The airline has held an Israeli Air Operator Certificate (AOC) since 1999 and operates Boeing widebody freighter aircraft on scheduled and charter cargo services connecting Israel with Europe, the United States, and Asia.
Founded in 1976 as Cargo Air Lines (CAL) by Israeli agricultural produce companies, the airline was established to serve the growing air freight market for Israeli exports, particularly fresh agricultural products destined for European markets. The airline operated closely with El Al Israel Airlines for its first two decades, leasing aircraft from the flag carrier as needed.
Challenge Airlines IL is part of Challenge Group, an international air cargo logistics conglomerate that includes sister airlines Challenge Airlines BE (Belgium) and Challenge Airlines MT (Malta), as well as ground handling, logistics, and maintenance divisions. Together, the Challenge Group operates approximately ten Boeing freighters and employs around 1,000 personnel across its entities.
Hubs & Focus Cities
Airports where CAL Cargo Air Lines operates 5+ routes
Network
20 airports served
Loading map...
Observed Flights
Callsigns tracked for CAL Cargo Air Lines (ICL) - 3 unique callsigns observed
