airplanes - WKTV Journal

Tubular Network: Automates the movement of goods in tubes using AI-driven delivery shuttles, providing safe, eco-friendly, and efficient logistics. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)

By WKTV Staff

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, in partnership with Avflight Grand Rapids Corporation, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines® and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, announced the seventh cohort of companies selected to receive more than $200,000 in total grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE).

“We are proud to welcome five new companies to the FLITE program that will pilot test their technologies at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Alex Peric, COO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “We appreciate the commitment of our partners in supporting companies that will shape the future of aviation.”

FLITE, a first-of-its-kind program in the aviation industry, is helping shape the future of aviation by providing grant funding and pilot-testing opportunities to companies developing air travel technologies and services. The five companies in this round include:

Arrow Analytics: Utilizes AI and sensors to uncover new data sources.
Civilized Cycles: Provides safe, sustainable and affordable electric vehicles.
Metro Consulting Associates: Offers civil engineering and land surveying solutions for energy, community development, and infrastructure.
Synaptic Aviation: Leverages AI to monitor and optimize apron operations while enhancing safety protocols and fuel efficiency.
Tubular Network: Automates the movement of goods in tubes using AI-driven delivery shuttles, providing safe, eco-friendly, and efficient logistics.

“We’re thrilled to be part of the FLITE program at Ford International Airport,” said Marc Liu, chief revenue officer at Civilized Cycles. “This partnership provides a unique opportunity to showcase the capabilities of our electric cargo trikes in a real-world setting and demonstrate how they can revolutionize airport operations.

“FLITE aligns perfectly with our mission to provide sustainable and efficient transportation solutions, and we’re excited to contribute to the growth of Michigan’s innovative mobility ecosystem.”

As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job creation and community growth, the MEDC has played a key role in fostering innovation. Through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), the MEDC has provided grant funding to support the companies participating in FLITE, to further the program’s mission and drive advancements in Michigan’s vibrant mobility and technology sectors.

The five companies will pilot their technologies at Ford International Airport this winter and spring:

Arrow Analytics will test a camera-based system using AI to identify carry-on baggage and streamline boarding.
Civilized Cycles will showcase their electric vehicle as a short-distance cargo mover within the airport terminal.
Metro Consulting Associates will estimate future electrical demand and propose energy infrastructure solutions.
Synaptic Aviation will test AI and computer vision to improve efficiency and accountability in ground operations.
Tubular Network will explore logistics solutions to enhance baggage handling before and after TSA screening.

FLITE, which recently received the 2024 Best Small and Emerging Airport Innovation Award from Airports Council International World and Amadeus, has supported more than 30 companies, awarding over $1 million in total grant funds across seven rounds.

Applications for the next round of FLITE are being accepted now through June 30, 2025, at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.

By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport will receive nearly $8.7 million in federal funding to install eight new passenger boarding bridges.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport to receive nearly $8.7 million for terminal improvements. (Courtesy)

The Federal Aviation Administration funding, announced by U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, was made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Signed into Law Last Year

“This funding will support eight new passenger boarding bridges in 2023 to further enhance the guest experience and provide growth opportunities for airline service in West Michigan for years to come,” said Torrance Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. ”We are thankful for the investment in community infrastructure by Senator Stabenow and Senator Peters, which allows the Gerald R. Ford International Airport to compete nationally for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding to invest in our passenger terminal.”

This funding is from the Airport Terminal Program. Senators Stabenow and Peters helped secure these funds in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

“Having reliable and safe air service is crucial for tourism, commerce, and economic development,” Senator Stabenow said. “This funding is another critical piece of the infrastructure investments coming to our state and will improve customer experiences at our airports.”

Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Courtesy)

The Airport Terminal Program is one of three aviation programs created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The law provides $1 billion annually for five years for Airport Terminal grants.

“Airports play a critical role in boosting Michigan’s economy by connecting communities and businesses to important destinations and resources,” Senator Peters said.

“I was proud to help secure this federal support through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help Gerald Ford International Airport make necessary upgrades to critical infrastructure, ensuring it can continue to welcome and transport travelers safely and efficiently for years to come.”

The Airport also will receive a $3.6 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for infrastructure improvements. The funding will go toward expanding the airport’s snow removal equipment building, as well as reconstructing existing airport service roads, runway lighting systems and the aircraft rescue and firefighting building.