Kuehne+Nagel (K+N) is set to strengthen its position in the global aerospace logistics market with the planned acquisition of Ireland-based Eastway Global Forwarding Ltd. The Limerick-headquartered, family-owned logistics provider operates across 130 countries, offering time-critical aircraft-on-ground (AOG) services, aircraft engine logistics, aviation warehousing, and customs brokerage.

Eastway also provides full lifecycle services for the aviation leasing industry, which owns over 50% of the global aviation fleet and is projected to grow from $187.1 billion in 2024 to $565.1 billion by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate of 11.8%, according to CAPA, Global Market Insights.

Upon completion of the acquisition, expected by year-end, Eastway will become a fully-owned subsidiary of K+N. Yngve Ruud, K+N management board member responsible for air logistics, said: “Eastway is a good fit for Kuehne+Nagel. The company brings a proven track record and strong customer base. This acquisition strengthens our aerospace logistics offering globally and accelerates growth in this fast-developing industry.”

Frank Junior McNamara, managing director of Eastway, added: “Partnering with the world’s leading logistics company opens an exciting new chapter for our family-owned business. By combining our aerospace expertise with K+N’s global reach, we can deliver world-class supply chain solutions to clients across the industry. This partnership also creates opportunities for service enhancement, growth, and professional development for our exceptional team, the driving force behind Eastway’s success.”

The acquisition underscores Kuehne+Nagel’s targeted bolt-on strategy, aiming to expand its aerospace logistics capabilities while supporting the growing demands of the aviation leasing sector and time-sensitive aircraft operations worldwide.

Learn more about K+N’s global logistics expansion and Eastway’s expertise here.