By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
The Spring Break travel season was a popular one at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) as March passenger numbers helped record the busiest month in Airport history. March numbers increased 14.42-percent compared to March 2018, and GFIA is up 10-percent overall this year.
March 2019 beat out March 2018 for the record of busiest month in Airport history with 341,534 passengers in 2019 versus 298,487 passengers in 2018. In addition, first quarter 2019 marks the busiest first quarter ever with 871,710 passengers served from January 1 through March 31.
The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 68 of the last 75 months and 18 straight.
“We had another fantastic Spring Break period, and West Michigan passengers are proving that they love utilizing their local, affordable, easy airport,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our airline partners continue to add larger aircraft, more frequency in flights, and more nonstop destinations. We have a lot of exciting things on tap for 2019, and it’s encouraging to see us off to such a great start.”
The Airport is underway on Phase Two of its Gateway Transformation Project which includes updates to the baggage claim area, airline ticket counters, flooring and lighting; along with new restrooms and concessions. Updates on construction at the airport can be found here:https://www.grr.org/construction.php
As passenger numbers continue to grow at GFIA, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more information to make security screening smoother are available atwww.tsa.gov.
The growth is expected to continue further into 2019 with more air service coming to the Ford Airport. Airline partner Allegiant has announced three new nonstop destinations in 2019 as well as the addition of a maintenance base. Nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) began on April 5. Nonstop service to Nashville (BNA), and Savannah-Hilton Head (SAV) will begin in June.
GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: http://www.flyford.org/history.php.
