Tag Archives: Ford International Airport

Avelo Airlines announces new nonstop service to Lakeland, Fla, and Raleigh-Durham, N.C., from Grand Rapids

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(Photo Courtesy, Avelo Airlines)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


Avelo Airlines announced today it will start service at Grand Rapids’ Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) with nonstop routes to North Carolina’s Research Triangle via Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Central Florida’s Lakeland International Airport (LAL). Avelo is the only airline offering nonstop service between Grand Rapids and these two destinations. Affordable one-way fares start at $59*.

Beginning in May, Avelo will operate these routes twice weekly on Fridays and Mondays, utilizing Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. Travelers can make reservations at AveloAir.com.

Lakeland International Airport (LAL)

  • Begins June 13, 2025, with twice weekly service on Mondays and Fridays

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

  • Begins May 23, 2025, with twice weekly service on Mondays and Fridays

Avelo Airlines Founder and CEO Andrew Levy said, “Grand Rapids – say hello to Avelo! We are proud to announce service at GRR and introduce a new era of convenient, affordable and industry-leading reliable travel to the Grand Rapids area. This service makes visiting North Carolina’s Research Triangle and Central Florida’s Lakeland easier than ever. We also look forward to making Grand Rapids’ world-class attractions, outdoor recreation and famous food and craft beverage scenes, easier than ever for RDU and LAL travelers to enjoy.”

GRR Airport Authority Board Chair Dan Koorndyk said, “We are thrilled to welcome Avelo Airlines to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, marking an exciting milestone for our community. With the addition of nonstop service to Raleigh-Durham and Lakeland, we’re not only expanding our flight options but also opening up new, unserved markets for our passengers. This new partnership reflects our commitment to providing greater connectivity and convenience for the West Michigan region, and we look forward to the opportunities it brings for both leisure and business travelers.”

Raleigh / Durham, N.C. (RDU) – Nonstop Access to The Research Triangle

The Triangle Region offers the widest range of activities and attractions in North Carolina. This region boasts award-winning inns, hotels and spas, culinary delights for every taste, and cultural experiences including university gardens and art and history museums. A trip to this blossoming Southern metropolis leaves visitors enriched and energized the instant they’re welcomed by its smart, savvy locals. RDU is also home to three large research universities: Duke University, NC State University and the University of North Carolina.

Exploring the Best of Central Florida via Lakeland (LAL)

Conveniently situated between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland is only a short drive to two of Florida’s most popular destinations and just an hour away from the Gulf Coast’s beaches.

Lakeland is one of the fastest growing areas in the country with its strong appeal for vacationers, retirees, and entrepreneurs. It is home to a multitude of family-friendly activities, including the LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Detroit Tigers Spring Training. The community has award-winning parks, vast trail networks, scenic lakes, a vibrant restaurant scene, and craft breweries all within walking distance of its historic downtown.

America’s most reliable and convenient airline

Since taking flight on April 28, 2021, Avelo has flown more than 6.3 million Customers on over 50,000 flights. Today Avelo serves 56 cities spanning 23 states and Puerto Rico, as well as four international destinations: Bahamas, Jamaica, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

Avelo has unlocked a new era of convenience, choice, and competition by flying unserved routes to primarily underserved communities across the country. Most Avelo routes have at least one small, easy to use airport. This makes traveling with Avelo a smoother, easier and more enjoyable experience than contending with the crowds, congestion and long walks at larger airports.

Avelo is distinguished by its industry-leading reliability. In 2024, Avelo ranked #1 in on-time performance and achieved the lowest flight cancellation rate in the U.S. airline industry. These results are provided by Anuvu, a leading aviation data services company also utilized by The Wall Street Journal for the publication’s annual airline ranking. Anuvu’s complete industry results and rankings are available at AveloAir.com.

Avelo also delivers world-class customer satisfaction, exemplified by our Net Promoter Scores (NPS), which consistently rank among the best airlines and most admired brands in the world.

Avelo offers an abundance of advanced seating options. One third of its aircraft seats (Avelo Premium and Premium Economy) offer extra leg room — ranging from 32 inches to more than 36 inches of pitch. These seats offer a more comfortable experience for customers who value more space. Customers can also purchase window and aisle seats in advance of their flight. In addition to advance seat assignments, Avelo offers several unbundled travel-enhancing options that give customers the flexibility to pay only for what they value, including priority boarding, checked bags, carry-on overhead bags, and bringing a pet in the cabin.

Additionally, families can travel with ease knowing every child 14 and under will be automatically seated with an accompanying adult at no additional cost.

Ford International Airport to feature Jerry Gretzinger’s Iconic Art Installation ‘Jerry’s Map’

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Jerry Gretzinger’s Iconic Art Installation ‘Jerry’s Map.’ (Photo Courtesy, Charles Giuliano, Massachusetts, 2012)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is pleased to announce Jerry Gretzinger as the selected artist for the Airport’s latest art installation. Gretzinger’s renowned work, Jerry’s Map, will be displayed in the new Consolidated Rental Car Facility (CONRAC), which is expected to open in Spring 2026.

The installation at the Airport will feature a monumental selection from Jerry’s Map, including 2,441 panels, each measuring 8″ x 10″. This mural represents the 2015 stage of Gretzinger’s evolving artwork. The panels, printed on aluminum composite, will span the entire four stories of the CONRAC’s customer service building, capturing the intricate and generative nature of the map. The work blends cartography with abstract composition, inviting viewers to engage with a world of dynamic color and structure. The intricate process involves acrylic paint, markers, colored pencils, ink and inkjet prints.

“We are excited to showcase Jerry’s exceptional artwork at the Ford International Airport,” said Casey Ries, chief asset development officer for the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “His work not only reflects the history and character of our community but also offers travelers a unique and immersive artistic experience.

“Jerry’s Map will serve as an exciting introduction to the creativity and culture of West Michigan when the CONRAC opens in 2026, and we’re proud to share it with visitors from around the world.”


Jerry Gretzinger’s Iconic Art Installation ‘Jerry’s Map.’ (Photo Courtesy, Peter Dibdin, Scotland, 2013)



Gretzinger, born in Grand Rapids in 1942, has spent decades developing Jerry’s Map, which began in 1963, as a representation of an imaginary place. Since then, it has evolved into an abstract composition, with changes determined by an elaborate set of rules and randomly generated instructions. The installation at the Airport will capture one of the most significant stages of this ongoing work.

“When I greeted my father at the old Kent County Airport on his return from the Navy in late 1945, I could never have imagined that 80 years later, I would be asked to provide artwork to adorn the walls of today’s Airport,” said Gretzinger. “I am particularly honored that while having shown this work internationally, it has never before been permanently installed in a public building.

“That this should happen in my hometown is especially gratifying as the Airport was a magical place for me as a child, evoking images of maps and distant places.”

Gretzinger’s artwork has been exhibited internationally, but this installation marks its first permanent public display. The Ford International Airport is proud to bring this extraordinary piece of art to the West Michigan community and to travelers from around the world.

For more information about the Ford International Airport Art Program, please visit FlyFord.org/art.

Ford International Airport announces record-breaking 4 million passengers for 2024

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(Photo Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is thrilled to announce it surpassed 4 million passengers in 2024, marking the first time in its history the Airport has exceeded the 4 million passenger mark. The Airport served a total of 4,172,068 passengers in 2024, nearly a 10% increase over the record-breaking figures of 2023.

“Surpassing 4 million passengers in one year is a testament to the growth of West Michigan, and we are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve our community,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “The Ford International Airport has experienced tremendous growth, thanks to the dedication of our team and partners, who consistently provide world-class service to our guests.”

To celebrate this achievement, the Airport is hosting a variety of festivities throughout the terminal today, including live music, a yoga class, free swag, a visit from the West Michigan Therapy Dogs and more.

Ranked as one of the top 10 best small airports in the country by USA TODAY, Ford International Airport is investing more than $750 million in critical assets through its capital expansion campaign, ELEVATE. This historic investment in West Michigan’s transportation infrastructure includes six projects aimed at supporting passenger growth and the overall economic health of the region.

In 2024, the Airport broke ground on its Terminal Enhancement Project, extending the west end of the terminal to add new public spaces, additional ticketing areas and a consolidated baggage inspection system for checked luggage. This $135 million investment will further support the West Michigan community for generations to come.

Terminal area expansion also continues to the east with Michigan’s first consolidated rental car facility (CONRAC) scheduled to open in 2026.

The Airport is currently served by seven commercial airline partners offering nonstop flights to over 30 destinations, as well as one cargo airline. There were more than 80,000 aircraft operations at the Airport in 2024, with over 65 million pounds of cargo processed.

For more information about the Ford International Airport, visit FlyFord.org.

Ford International Airport wins Prestigious Peggy G. Hereford Award from Airports Council International – North America

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From left: ACI-NA Marketing, Communications & Customer Experience Committee Chair Heather Shelbrack, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Marketing and Communications Manager Haley Abbas, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Communications and Events Associate Heidi Groenboom and ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke. (Photo Courtesy, Airports Council International – North America)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority received the Peggy G. Hereford Award for Overall Excellence in Airport Marketing, Communications and Customer Experience from the Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) at its annual awards, held on Oct. 29 in San Francisco.

Recognized as the highest honor an airport can earn for marketing and communications, the Peggy G. Hereford Award is given to the airport with the most category wins at the Excellence in Airport Marketing, Communications and Customer Experience Awards. Marketing and Communications Manager Haley Abbas and Communications and Events Associate Heidi Groenboom​​​​ were at the event to accept the award, which also recognized first place wins in four categories.

“We are extremely proud ACI-NA has recognized the Airport’s marketing efforts led by Haley and Heidi,” said Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “This award reflects our continued efforts to make a meaningful impact in the aviation industry. 

“From creative advertising, robust public relations and innovative guest experience efforts, our team works to position the Gerald R. Ford International Airport as West Michigan’s gateway to the world. These awards were incredibly competitive, further underscoring the excellent work coming from our dedicated teams.”

This year, nearly 400 entries across 25 categories were submitted to ACI-NA, showcasing the top airports across North America and the efforts of their dedicated airport staff to creatively market, promote and communicate their airport’s customer service capabilities and initiatives.

“We work hard to show the value the Ford International Airport delivers to our community,” Abbas said. “It is incredibly special and humbling to be recognized by our peers for our efforts to enhance our marketing and communications so we can continue to serve our community in an intentional and thoughtful way.

“We also thank our advertising partners at Extra Credit Projects, who have worked alongside us to elevate our brand and provide ongoing creative services.”

In addition to the Peggy G. Hereford Award, the Ford International Airport won individual awards in the following categories:

  • Annual report, recognizing the annual report that best projects a positive image for the airport through well-written and well-organized content, excellent design and well-conceived overall packaging.
  • Print communications, recognizing excellence in brochures and print advertising to highlight a specific event, industry segment or special offer.
  • Community education and outreach, recognizing airports with the most creative and effective community outreach and aviation education programs conducted online, inside or outside the airport.
  • Marketing programs for a small airport, recognizing the airport that best demonstrates how marketing programs help define an airport’s product or service and create a strategy for communicating the message that will produce growth.

Since its formation in 1990, the Excellence in Airport Marketing, Communications and Customer Experience Awards have recognized the quality of work, abundance of talent and creativity within the airport industry’s marketing, communications and customer experience fields.

Ford International Airport welcomes local school choirs for 28th Annual Holiday Music Festival

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A previous Ford Airport Holiday Music Festival. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org

As holiday travel continues at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, local school choirs are set to fill the Airport with festive cheer for passengers and guests.

The 28th Annual Holiday Music Festival will take place the week of December 2-6 in the Airport Grand Hall, located just before the TSA checkpoint. Daily performances run between 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Ten West Michigan choirs are scheduled to sing 20-minute sets throughout the day, which includes:

  • Byron Center West Middle School
  • City High Middle School
  • Coit Creative Arts Academy
  • Lee High School
  • Legacy Christian School
  • Ottawa Hills High School
  • South Christian High School
  • West Side Christian School
  • Wyoming High School
  • Zeeland Christian School

“We are thrilled to welcome talented school choirs from across West Michigan to the Airport this holiday season,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “Their performances will fill the Airport with festive melodies, creating a joyful atmosphere for our guests, partners and staff.”

All festival performances are free and open to the public. The schedule of performances can be found at FlyFord.org.

A previous Ford Airport Holiday Music Festival. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)

Ford Airport celebrates completion of $8.5 Million snow removal equipment building expansion

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Ford Airport Snow Removal Building Expansion. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority has completed its $8.5 million snow removal equipment building expansion, adding over 60,000 square feet for a total facility size of more than 117,500 square feet. This expansion will support the airport in accommodating increasing passenger demand and aircraft operations while ensuring safe, efficient air travel during the winter season.

“Today marks a major milestone in our ongoing commitment to operational excellence and safety,” said Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “This expanded facility further equips our Airfield Maintenance team with the resources needed to keep our runways clear and operational in winter conditions, enhancing our ability to provide world-class service to our guests and community.”



Ford Airport Snow Removal Building Expansion. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



The newly expanded building consolidates all snow removal equipment in a state-of-the-art facility designed to protect it from the elements, thereby extending its operational lifespan. It will house the Airport Authority’s Airfield Maintenance team, known nationally for their innovative snow removal techniques, and store over 45 specialized vehicles, including snowplows that can quickly clear runways.

The project received support from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which authorized up to $108 billion for public transportation—the largest federal investment in public transportation in U.S. history.

“West Michiganders are no strangers to snow, and when it coats our runways, it’s not just inconvenient, it’s dangerous,” said Congresswoman Hillary Scholten. “As more flights take off from Gerald R. Ford International Airport, we need reliable snow removal equipment – and you can’t have reliable equipment without protecting it against the elements.

“I’m thrilled that this winter, GRR will be able to utilize the brand-new snow removal equipment building – funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – to keep our taxiways ready for whatever this winter brings.”

During snow events, the Airfield Maintenance team can deploy multiple trucks to swiftly clear runways, maintaining safe conditions for all aircraft operations. The expanded facility ensures that this essential equipment remains in optimal condition, ready for immediate response.

The expansion supported 130 trade jobs during construction. FCC Construction, Inc. led the construction efforts, with design and construction administration support from DLZ and C&S Companies.

Ford International Airport to open Bell’s Brewery location

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Ford International Airport to open a Bell’s Brewery this winter. (Rendering Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Gerald R. Ford International Airport, in partnership with HMSHost, is set to open a Bell’s Brewery location on Concourse B this winter.

“Since opening in 1985, Bell’s Brewery has been a beloved staple in our community,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “With an average of 10,000 passengers coming through our terminal daily—some of whom are first-time visitors to West Michigan—we are excited to showcase the vibrant local flavors of our region and hope all our travelers can enjoy the diverse options available to them.”

Restaurateur HMSHost, part of leading global travel experience player Avolta, operates more than 1,000 dining venues across North America, including partnerships with local businesses and brands to elevate travel venues and introduce regional culinary expertise to a global audience. The Bell’s Brewery location will feature classic favorites such as Oberon Ale and Two Hearted IPA, along with seasonal offerings and a menu of small bites and snacks.

“We are proud to partner with Ford International Airport and Bell’s Brewery to expand the concessions program and to bring a taste of place to the concourse through a dining venue inspired by a beloved, locally born brand,” said HMSHost Vice President of Business Development Bryan Loden. “Bell’s Tap and Table will make a traveler’s journey through the airport all the more exciting by offering great beer, delicious food and excellent hospitality.”

“Bell’s is proud of our Michigan-based roots and we’ve loved being able to bring exceptional craft beer to our communities for nearly four decades. Through this partnership, Michiganders on the west side of the state can now experience Bell’s at new occasions,” said Bell’s Executive Vice President Carrie Yunker.


Ford International Airport to open a Bell’s Brewery this winter. (Rendering Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Ford International Airport and HMSHost continue to offer a variety of restaurants, shops and amenities, including Founders, Firehouse Subs, INK by Hudson, Starbucks and more. For more information about the amenities offered at the Ford International Airport, visit FlyFord.org/amenities.