By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport


May passenger numbers topped 13.4-percent and the month goes down as the busiest May in history at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).

Through May 2019, 1,460,611 passengers have traveled through the airport, and overall passenger traffic is up 11.5-percent from 2018 – the busiest year in GFIA history.

May 2019 saw 296,202 passengers compared to 261,281 in 2018. May 2019 also beats out May 2018 as the busiest May in airport history.

The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 70 of the last 77 months and 20 straight.

“The community continues to grow, and we’re a reflection of that growth,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “We see new developments everywhere, new businesses, and tremendous investments in our community. People should be proud to know West Michigan is a hidden gem among the aviation industry and the more we grow, the more airlines will be investing new routes and more frequencies here.”

The growth is expected to continue in 2019 as airline partner Allegiant started new nonstop service to Nashville (BNA), and Savannah-Hilton Head (SAV) last week. Additionally, Allegiant started nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) in April.

With the growth, GFIA has invested in its facilities and is currently underway in 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 at www.tsa.gov.

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available on our website http://www.flyford.org/history.php.