Tag Archives: GFIA

Ford Airport records 24th consecutive month of growth

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, ,
An American Airlines MD-80 preps for its final departure from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Dallas-Forth Worth (DFW). (Supplied)

By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has recorded its 24th consecutive month of passenger growth as September passenger numbers topped 10-percent. The month also goes down as the busiest September in airport history.

Through September 2019, 2,690,043 passengers have traveled through the airport — more than 2016’s total annual passengers. Overall traffic is up 10.59-percent from 2018 — the busiest year in GFIA history.

September 2019 saw 283,709 passengers compared to 255,888 in 2018. It also makes the busiest third quarter ever, beating out 2018 by nearly 81,000 passengers.

The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 74 of the last 81 months straight.

“The growth our airport has seen is just tremendous, and it is a testament to our stimulating community and vest airline partnerships,” said GFIA president and CEO Tory Richardson. “We still have three months to go in 2019 and we’re already close to topping our 2018 record. We look forward to seeing what’s to come as the year concludes, and we hope to continue delivering great service, more nonstop routes, and improved amenities and options for our travelers.”

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 atwww.tsa.gov.

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

Gerald R. Ford International Airport announces new police chief

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,
Interim CEO Brian Picardat swears in new Police Chief Bill Nowicki (Ford Airport)

By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GFIA) announced today that William “Bill” Nowicki has been hired as its new Chief Airport Law Enforcement Officer.

Nowicki, who comes to Gerald R. Ford International Airport after 27 years with the Grand Rapids Police Department, was officially sworn in today.

“Bill is a tremendous addition to our airport staff and brings an array of law enforcement knowledge,” said GFIA Public Safety & Operations Director Lisa Carr. “Bill has an incredible resume and is well known and well respected among his peers. He brings a diverse set of experience and leadership to the department, and I am confident Bill will be a great fit with the team.”

Nowicki has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Ferris State University. He is also a graduate of the School of Police Staff and Command from Northwestern University, and a graduate of the Leadership Institute at Calvin College.

William Nowicki is the new police chief at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Ford Airport)

The St. Clair, Michigan native has an extensive background in law enforcement and has served as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Detective, and Patrol Sergeant. In 2004 he was promoted to Lieutenant and in that role, he has served as a Watch Commander, Administrative Lieutenant, and since 2013 he has served as the Unit Commander of the Vice Unit.

During his career at the Grand Rapids Police Department, Nowicki has received numerous awards including a Commendation Award, Team Performance Award, Achievement Award, Honorable Mention Award, four Unit Performance Awards, and many Letters of Commendation and Recognition. Locally, Chief Nowicki serves on the Kent County Opioid Task Force, Illicit Massage Industry work group, City of Grand Rapids Human Trafficking Task Force, and Ferris State University’s School of Criminal Justice Alumni Advisory Committee.

“I am thrilled to join the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority team,” said Nowicki. “The airport continues to grow, and I am looking forward to bringing my skills and knowledge of public safety and law enforcement into a new environment where security is held to the highest standard.”

“We pride ourselves on safety and security, and Bill’s experience will be a great fit in working with the Transportation Security Administration, Department of Homeland Security, and building our internal law enforcement department,” said Brian Picardat, Interim CEO at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

Nowicki replaces Chief Rick Aro, who retired in March.

Ford Airport crosses million mark with April passenger numbers

3-bottom, City of Kentwood,
A young traveler reads an airport activity book before boarding his flight. (Ford Airport)

By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport

April passenger numbers are up 13-percent and total traffic at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has soared to over a million passengers served this year.

Through April 2019, 1,164,409 passengers have traveled through the airport, and overall passenger traffic is up 11-percent from 2018 – the busiest year in GFIA history.

April 2019 saw 292,699 passengers compared to 259,106 in 2018. April 2019 also beats out April 2018 as the busiest April in airport history.

The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 69 of the last 76 months and 19 straight.

“People ask us repeatedly what is our key to success, and we credit our team’s tremendous efforts in safety, customer service, innovation and maintenance, mixed in with an outpouring of community support,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “We know passengers have choices when they fly, but more and more we are seeing our West Michigan community choose the Ford Airport. Our airline partners keep adding routes, frequencies, and capacity because they know our community is supporting the service.”

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.

March 2019 marks busiest month in Ford Airport history

3-bottom, , ,
Above): A Delta Air Lines 757 gets ready for departure at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) (Supplied)

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.

GFIA Spring Break Passenger Appreciation Days return, TSA offers advice for faster screening

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, ,
Those traveling over spring break are urged to arrive at least two hours prior to departure time. (Supplied)

By Tara M. Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is coming off a 2018 year which saw a record 3.2 million passengers, and the Airport expects to see the high volume trend continue through its busiest time of the year – Spring Break. 

Due to additional passenger volume beginning this month and continuing through April, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects longer security lines and urges passengers to arrive at the Airport at least two hours prior to departure time. 

In order to expedite the security screening process, passengers should carefully consider the contents of their checked luggage and carry-on bags. The TSA recommends wearing shoes that are easy to remove, having identification and boarding passes ready to present at security checkpoints, removing all items from pockets, avoiding bedazzled and jeweled clothing, limiting heavy jewelry, and ending all cell phone conversations prior to screening. In addition, removing heavy food items such as cheese and fudge, along with granular and powdered items like sugar, from your carry-on bag, will also greatly speed up security screening. 

“With a record-setting 2018 and over three million passengers served last year, we are busier than ever and that means it is crucial for our travelers to arrive early because our passenger numbers continue to grow,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our TSA screening will be staffed with more officers to accommodate the extra traffic, but passengers can do their part by simply arriving early to allow adequate time for screening and some fun as well.” 

Passengers traveling through GFIA on select Spring Break travel dates will be treated to the annual Passenger Appreciation Days, compliments of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board. This bon-voyage celebration will take place from Thursday, March 28th through Saturday, March 30th each day from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the Airport’s Grand Hall Meet & Greet area. Passenger Appreciation Days events include free refreshments, food, giveaways, prize drawings, contests, and more! 

“We are excited to bring back our Passenger Appreciation Days – a tradition at the Ford Airport for 17 years,” said GFIA Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. “This is one way we can thank our community for supporting our airport, and our passengers will have some fun before heading out on their vacations.” 

For passengers wanting to partake in the Passenger Appreciation Days festivities, the Airport encourages them to allow even more travel time. 

The TSA also encourages passengers to utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one- quart zip-top bag. 

Additional 3-1-1 Information: 

  • Deodorant: Stick deodorant is not limited to 3.4 ounces or less, but gel or spray deodorant is.
  • Suntan & Sun Block Lotion: Lotions fall under the 3-1-1 procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
  • Makeup: Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
  • Beverages: Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
  • Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage. 


Questions about TSA procedures and upcoming travel can be addressed to the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673 or @AskTSA or Twitter.

Tips from GFIA on how to make your holiday travel easier

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , ,

Alicia Roberts
Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is preparing for a busy holiday travel season and is offering these helpful travel reminders.

Due to increased passenger traffic, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. Also, due to current airport construction, along with the busy holiday traffic, lines could be longer than normal. GFIA encourages passengers to arrive at least 90-120 minutes before their flight and check flight information at www.flyford.com.

In order to expedite the security screening process, passengers should carefully consider the contents of their checked luggage and carry-on bags. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends wearing shoes that are easy to remove, having identification and boarding passes ready to present at security checkpoints, removing all items from pockets, avoiding bedazzled and jeweled clothing, limiting heavy jewelry, and ending all cell phone conversations prior to screening. In addition, remove any personal electronics larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bags. 

If passengers are traveling with gifts, do not wrap them with wrapping paper or tape. TSA recommends putting gifts in gift bags or gift boxes instead. Snow globes can be a popular gift during the holidays but they must contain 3.4 liquid ounces or less to comply with the 3-1-1 liquids bag rule. Larger snow globes should be packed in checked baggage or shipped to your destination.

Traveling with food items is okay during the holidays. Removing heavy food items such as cheese and fudge, along with granular and powdered items like sugar, from your carry-on bag, will also greatly speed up security screening. If the food item is a solid (i.e.: ham, turkey, cake, cookies), then it can be packed in a carry-on bag. If the food item is spreadable or pourable, then it must be 3.4 liquid ounces or less to comply with the 3-1-1 liquids bag rule to travel in a carry-on bag. If it is more than 3.4 liquid ounces, it must be packed in a checked bag.

“We are looking forward to another holiday season, which is a busy time of the year. Because of that, it is important for those traveling – especially if you haven’t flown recently – to review TSA’s website,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our TSA staff does a wonderful job, and the more prepared travelers are, the smoother the screening experience will be for everyone.”

The TSA encourages passengers to utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one-quart zip-top bag. Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag.

Additional 3-1-1 Information:

  • Deodorant:Stick deodorant is not limited to 3.4 ounces or less, but gel or spray deodorant is.
  • Suntan & Sun Block Lotion:Lotions fall under the 3-1-1procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
  • Makeup:Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
  • Beverages:Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
  • Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.

Questions about TSA procedures and upcoming travel can be addressed to the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673 or @AskTSA on Twitter.

Ford Airport to surprise three millionth passenger

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

A passenger arrives on an inbound Phoenix flight and is greeted with cookies and water from airport staff. (Ford Airport)

By Tara Herendez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

Wednesday, Dec. 5, with a reception to also include surprises and giveaways for passengers flying that day.

 

The Airport had a total of over 2.7 million passengers served through the end of October. November and December seat totals and flight information are forecasting the three millionth passenger to arrive around 11 a.m. on Dec. 5.

 

“Our three millionth passenger has no idea they will be greeted upon arrival at our airport with balloons, gifts, and some really fantastic giveaways,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “To hit three million passengers is a first for our airport and we really want to go above and beyond to celebrate it with one lucky passenger, but also for all of those traveling through our airport that day.”

 

The three millionth passenger will be receiving three $300 travel vouchers and three free days of parking from the Airport Authority, a gift basket of travel accessories from Hudson News & Gifts valued over $300, a Beer City Welcome Basket from Experience Grand Rapids, and much more.

 

Airport staff will also be passing out cookies, candy, giveaways, and registering people to win three $300 flight vouchers from 9a.m. – 2p.m. that day.

Ford Airport gets closer to 3 million passenger mark with October numbers

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, ,

A young passenger arrives from Phoenix-Sky Harbor at the Ford Airport. (Courtesy of the Ford Airport)

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) now sits less than 300,000 passengers away from setting another all-time annual record for passengers served. October 2018 saw 16-percent growth year-over-year, putting the Ford Airport at over 2.7 million passengers served in 2018 with two months left.

 

October marks the tenth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 63 of the last 70 months. October 2018 was the busiest October ever, and at this point in the year GFIA has surpassed its annual totals reached in every year except 2017.

 

October 2018 had 284,710 passengers come through the Ford Airport, up from 245,319 in 2017. GFIA is up 15.7-percent in annual passenger totals.

 

“We still have two months left in the year and these are big months for us with November and December holiday travel mixed in. We know we will hit our three million passenger mark and then some,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “We continue to work on adding more air service, working with our airline partners to serve the destinations West Michigan travelers want to visit. Our work isn’t done and we only expect more big things in 2019.”

 

Allegiant recently announced nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) which will begin in April 2019, and American Airlines kicks off new nonstop service to Miami (MIA) and Phoenix Sky- Harbor (PHX) beginning in December 2018. Frontier also started Phoenix (PHX) and Tampa (TPA) this month.

 

“We are proud to have airlines investing in the Ford Airport and recognizing the growth of our West Michigan community,” said GFIA Board Chairman Dan Koorndyk. “We are thrilled to be on the edge of three million passengers, and we’re looking forward to celebrating that milestone.”

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project began in November 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, curbside, and ‘front of house’ area. For more information on construction updates and upgrades, please visit: http://www.flyford.org/construction.php

 

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: http://www.grr.org/

Gerald R. Ford International Airport begins Gateway Transformation Project – Phase II

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

A rendering of the future west ticketing area at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Renovations begin November 2018 and will continue through Summer 2020.

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

Construction on the second phase of the Gateway Transformation Project begins today at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA), and will continue through Summer 2020.

 

Construction improvements are focused on the airline ticket counters and baggage service offices, baggage claim, curbside, and ‘front of house’ areas. The main features will include relocating TSA screening equipment from the airline queuing areas, upgrading the space around the baggage claim carousels, and adding food and beverage establishments and restrooms to the space near baggage claim.

 

Remodeling will include new terrazzo flooring, new LED lighting fixtures, upgraded signage, and more.

 

Phase I of the Gateway Transformation Project started in December 2015, and wrapped up in September 2017. The first phase included a consolidated security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening, along with new retail and concession space, restrooms and nursing rooms, business centers, and more.

 

“The comments we have received regarding Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project have been overwhelmingly supportive and have generated excitement for what’s to come in Phase Two,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We look forward to completing the next round of construction to make our entire airport reflective of the scenery and beauty of West Michigan as we continue to be the gateway to our region.”

 

Because some of the construction will have an impact on passenger operations both in the terminal building and those picking up and dropping off passengers at the curb front, we encourage visitors to prepare ahead of time by arriving at least 90 minutes before their scheduled flight, and by visiting: http://www.grr.org/construction.php. Updates on the progress of the construction, photos, and other helpful tips are listed here. Additionally, signage, maps, and airport ambassadors are available in the terminal building to assist with any passenger needs or directions.

 

The second phase construction and design is expected to cost $18 million and generate over 40 full-time jobs.

A rendering of the future bag claim area at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Renovations begin November 2018 and will continue through Summer 2020.

Ford Airport on Pace to Break Three Million Passenger Mark

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The three million passenger mark is drawing in closer after the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) recorded another month of record growth with a September that served 255,888 passengers – marking 15.74-percent growth year-over-year.

 

September marks the ninth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 62 of the last 69 months. September 2018 was the busiest September ever, and this quarter marks the busiest third quarter ever – beating out September 2017 for that title.

 

Through September 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual totals reached in all years through 2014 with 2,432,413 passengers served in 2018.

 

“Our excitement in record-breaking month after record-breaking month is genuine and we are so appreciative to the community for supporting and utilizing the Ford Airport throughout this amazing year,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are thankful to have a supportive West Michigan community that is not only flying in and out of the Ford Airport, but seem to be telling their friends near and far what an easy, efficient, and customer-focused airport we have.”

 

September 2017 saw 218,671 passengers, while September 2018 topped that in serving 255,888 – the first time GFIA has served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of September.

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in November 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

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

Gerald R Ford International Airport opens new cell phone lot

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , , ,

The new Cell Phone & Ride Share Lot at the Gerald R. Ford International Airpot.

With an eye towards helping to reduce congestion at its terminal building, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has opened a new parking area for those waiting to pick up passengers.

 

The Cell Phone & Ride Share Lot includes 30 spaces for individuals waiting for passenger arrivals, along with 30 spaces to accommodate staging for ride share providers.

 

 

The new lot is located off Patterson Avenue as you enter the airport headed north, making an immediate right on Van Laar Drive, and another immediate right on Pederson Court. Directional signage is in place to guide new visitors to the area.

 

 

“This expanded area will give those customers looking to enter and exit quickly, an opportunity to park in this new lot for a short time period while waiting for their arriving guest to call them,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “In addition, we are excited to finish a partnership with our rideshare partners to work together to solidify that added service at our airport.”

 

The new Cell Phone and Ride Share lot is located in the lower left corner of the map.

The Ford Airport board approved the construction project in April. Increased passenger and construction traffic prompted the relocation and construction of the new lot.

 

 

“We are excited to open this new, expanded space for our growing passenger base,” said GFIA Board Chairman Dan Koorndyk. “At the Ford Airport we are all about making things easier for our passengers so when it comes to giving them more transportation options, we are happy to make that happen.”

 

 

Other renovations in the area include new LED lighting to improve safety, and updated signage. The lot is free with a limit of 30 minutes which will be enforced.

Ford Airport Continues Growth in Eighth Straight Month of 2018

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

After serving more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of July, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) topped that with an August that served close to 300,000 passengers.

 

August marks the eighth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 61 of the last 68 months. August 2018 was the busiest August ever, with passenger numbers up 17.8-percent year-over-year.

 

Through August 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual total reached in 2012, with 2,176,525 passengers served in 2018.

 

“To know we are continuing to break records of years past sets us at an amazing pace to finish out the rest of 2018, and we expect to hit our three million passenger mark,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are thankful to have a supportive West Michigan community that is not only flying in and out of the Ford Airport, but that seem to be telling their friends near and far what an easy, efficient, and customer-focused airport we have.”

 

August 2017 saw 247,986 passengers, while August 2018 topped that in serving 292,135 – the first time GFIA has served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of August.

 

Airline Weekly forecasted the Ford Airport as the second fastest-growing airport in the U.S. among the 100 busiest airports for the Q3 summer peak, according to data from Diio, an aviation data, tools, and technology product. The ranking was based upon a projected 21-percent increase in year-over-year growth.

 

“Our airline partners continue to invest here and are adding more service with more routes, and larger aircraft to accommodate our growing passenger traffic,” said Gill. “We expect the record numbers and trends to continue as we wrap up summer and continue into fall.”

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available the airport’s website: http://www.grr.org/history.php.

Ford Airport on pace as America’s second fastest growing airport

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , ,

By Tara Hernadez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

After serving more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of July, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is continuing its pace as the second fastest growing airport in the country.

 

July marks the seventh record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 60 of the last 67 months. July 2018 was the busiest July ever, with passenger numbers up 16.7- percent year-over-year.

 

Through July 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual totals reached in both 2008 and 2009, and the airport has now served over 75-million passengers in its 54-year history.

 

“Our growth is a collaborative effort between our community, our airline partners, our tenants, and continued economic progression,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “With recent announcements like American Airlines adding nonstop service to Miami, and Frontier Airlines adding nonstop service to Phoenix Sky-Harbor, we are continuing to set records and meet the demands and needs of our traveling public. We are not done, and we expect 2018 to not only be another record-setting year but to continue that momentum into 2019.”

 

Airline Weekly forecasted the Ford Airport as the second fastest-growing airport in the U.S. among the 100 busiest airports for the Q3 summer peak, according to data from Diio, an aviation data, tools, and technology product. The ranking was based upon a projected 21-percent increase in year-over-year growth.

 

July 2017 saw 249,268 passengers, while July 2018 topped that in serving 291,304 – the second largest increase ever for the month of July.

 

“Our airline partners continue to invest here and are adding more service with more routes, and larger aircraft to accommodate our growing passenger traffic,” said Gill. “We expect the record numbers and trends to continue as we wrap up summer and continue into fall.”

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available at http://www.grr.org/history.php.

 

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , , , , , , ,

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

 

Quote of the Day

"Don't ever question the value of volunteers. Noah's Ark was built by volunteers; the Titanic was built by professionals."  - Dave Gynn, an engineer out of the San Francisco Bay area.

 

A BIG Thanks

 

WKTV Volunteer of the Year was Charlie Kormanik

And WKTV values its volunteers, this year hosting a Brazilian-style barbecue at Johnson Park.

 

This year’s Volunteer of the Year was Charlie Kormanik who had more than 300 volunteer hours. Charlie travels almost 80 miles, one-way, from St. Joseph, Michigan, to participate in a number of WKTV programs. Thanks Charlie and to all our volunteers for another wonderful year. To see all the volunteers who were recognized at this year’s picnic, click here. To become volunteer, call 616-261-5700.

Song spinners

 

The Crane Wives performs July 26.

After making recent tour stops throughout the country, the band will be returning home to play at the Kentwood Summer Concert Series this Thursday.

 

Show time is set for 7p.m. at the lawn next to the Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Click here for more.

 

 

 

Who’s counting?

 

After reporting the busiest June ever in its history, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport has 1,406,644 more to go to hit the three million passenger mark. At the rate things are going, we expect GFIA to land that goal soon. For more on the story, click here.

 

 

 

Be Involved and be informed

 

Stealing Mayor Jack Poll’s closing line for every Wyoming City Council meeting, WKTV reminds residents that the upcoming primary is Aug. 7 and there are a number of candidates seeking their party’s spot for the general election. In the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, there are two Kent County Commission races, two Republicans for the 8th District and four Democratic in the 12th District.  For more, click here.

 

And today’s fun fact:

400

That is the number of meters of Lycra (an elastic polyurethane fiber or fabric) needed to make the costumes for the "Super Trooper" scene in the ABBA-inspired "Mamma Mia!" Don't believe us? Then check out the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre production this February and see for yourself.

GFIA halfway to three million passenger mark with record-breaking June

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

June 2018 marks another record-breaking month at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA), going down as the busiest June in the airport’s history and setting the pace for what could be another historical passenger year.

 

June passenger numbers were up 17.5-percent year-over-year; resulting in the busiest June ever, and marking the first time GFIA has served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of June.

 

At the end of the first half of 2018, GFIA is more than halfway to the three million passenger mark, having served a total of 1,593,356 passengers. Overall, 2018 passenger totals at GFIA are up 15- percent versus 2017.

 

“Summer in West Michigan is in full swing and we are noticing it at the Ford Airport,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “Not only are we seeing record-breaking passenger numbers, but we are seeing new faces and new travelers who maybe haven’t flown in a while or in the past had chosen to fly out of larger airports. With six airlines, 25 nonstop cities served, and over 120 daily flights we are giving passengers more options at affordable fares, and they are utilizing our airport – the easiest choice around.”

 

June 2017 saw 240,761 passengers, while June 2018 topped that in serving 282,863 – the second largest increase ever for the month of June. Each month of 2018 has resulted in record-breaking passenger numbers, and the Ford Airport is coming off a 2017 that saw over 2.8 million passengers – the fifth straight year of record growth. GFIA has seen growth in 59 of the past 66 months.

 

“Our airline partners continue to invest here and are adding more service through the summer with more routes, and larger aircraft to accommodate our growing passenger traffic,” said Gill. “We expect the record numbers and trends to continue in the busy summer months as West Michiganders visit the world, and as the world visits our beautiful West Michigan region.”

 

The upcoming summer is expected to be the busiest summer in the history of U.S. air travel, according to trade group Airlines for America (A4A). The group estimates that over 246 million passengers will fly in the U.S. between June 1 and August 31, 2018. Historically low fares and a strong economy are noted for aiding in that forecasted record-breaking summer travel period.

 

Because of the increases both nationally and at GFIA, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least 90-120 minutes before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more are listed at www.tsa.gov

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

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

Gerald R. Ford International airport passes FAA inspection with zero discrepancies

3-bottom, , , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has passed its annual Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification and safety inspection with zero discrepancies.

 

Commercial “air carrier” airports such as GFIA are regulated by the FAA. Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 139 proposes rules for the certification and operation of airports. This includes strict standards for governing airfield and pavement conditions, airfield lighting, snow and ice control, aircraft rescue and firefighting, personnel training, and handling and storage of hazardous materials. In addition, emergency planning and wildlife hazard management are reviewed.

 

The three day comprehensive inspection revealed that GFIA is being operated in full compliance with FAR Part 139. The FAA applauded the Airport Authority, on its procedures and noted its effectiveness on the condition of the airfield, the lighting, safe construction activity, and record-keeping.

 

“An FAA inspection with zero discrepancies is an incredible feat,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “This is a testament to the ongoing, year-round attention to detail our employees exhibit to ensure our facilities are safe and secure for the traveling public. I am proud to work among such a talented, efficient staff – some of the best in the country.”

 

The FAA also checks airport records including training and corrective action documents, and tests the airport’s emergency response.

As May passenger numbers rise, GFIA expects to see record summer travel

3-bottom, , , , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

May 2018 is going down as the busiest May ever at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA), and airport officials foresee the busy month kicking off an even busier summer schedule.

 

May passenger numbers were up 11.5 percent year-over-year; resulting in the busiest May ever, and marking the first time GFIA has served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of May.

 

“We are happy to hear the first four months of increased traffic in 2018 were not just a fluke of winter and spring break traffic, but that our record-breaking passenger counts are continuing into the summer months,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are seeing increases in the upcoming months with American adding mainline service to Dallas, Delta adding more frequency to New York-LaGuardia, and United’s capacity to Chicago and Denver increasing.”

 

May 2017 saw 234,300 passengers, while May 2018 topped that in serving 261,281 – the third largest increase ever for the month of May.

 

Each month of 2018 has resulted in record-breaking passenger numbers, and the Ford Airport is coming off a 2017 that saw over 2.8 million passengers – the fifth straight year of record growth. GFIA has seen growth in 58 of the past 65 months.

 

“Our airline partners continue to invest here and are adding more service through the summer with more routes, and larger aircraft to accommodate our growing passenger traffic,” said Gill. “We expect the record numbers and trends to continue in the busy summer months as West Michiganders visit the world, and as the world visits our beautiful West Michigan region.”

 

The upcoming summer is expected to be the busiest summer in the history of U.S. air travel, according to trade group Airlines for America (A4A). The group estimates that over 246 million passengers will fly in the U.S. between June 1 and August 31, 2018. Historically low fares and a strong economy are noted for aiding in that forecasted record-breaking summer travel period.

 

Because of the increases both nationally and at GFIA, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least 90-120 minutes before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more are listed at www.tsa.gov

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: grr.org/history.php.

With 15-percent rise in April, GFIA passes one-million passenger mark earlier than ever

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has reached the one-million passenger mark earlier than ever in its 54-year history. Passenger numbers for April were up 15- percent year-over-year, as GFIA’s total passenger numbers through April 2018 reached 1,049,212.

 

April 2018 saw 123,225 enplaned passengers and 135,881 deplaned passengers, and the passenger totals are up 15.21% for the year.

 

“We were thrilled with our record-breaking March when we set the busiest month in our history, and to follow it with not only another tremendous rise in traffic, but hitting the million-passenger mark this early is incredible,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “Airlines are investing in this airport adding more frequencies, larger aircraft, and employing more staff to keep the services running smoothly. We are proud to be a catalyst for economic growth in this region and to support the business and leisure traffic that utilize our airport each week.”

 

GFIA is coming off a March that was the single busiest in history with passenger numbers up 16.2- percent, and is coming off a 2017 that saw over 2.8 million passengers, the fifth straight year of record growth.

 

GFIA has seen growth in 57 of the last 64 months.

 

“Kudos to our entire airport staff for their efforts, especially our hard working airline crews and TSA who keep passengers flowing through our new consolidated checkpoint quickly and efficiently, and getting them to their destinations safely,” said Gill. “We couldn’t grow without a strong team and we have that here at the Ford Airport.”

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available at http://www.grr.org/history.php.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport records busiest month ever with 16.2 percentage growth

3-bottom, , , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

March 2018 was the single busiest month in Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) history.

 

March passenger numbers were up 16.2 percent year-over-year; resulting in the busiest March ever, the busiest first quarter ever, and breaking an all-time monthly record from March 2017.

 

“We continue to sound like a broken record, but what an amazing feat for our airport and our community to not only have a record month, but the best in Ford Airport history,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “We saw first-hand the traffic in our parking garage and passengers going through our security checkpoints leaving for Spring Break, but we are pleasantly surprised to see a record-breaking month like this.”

 

page1image23504

March 2017 was previously the busiest month in GFIA history with 256,880 total passengers. In March 2018, 298,487 total passengers traveled through GFIA – breaking the previous record by 41,607 passengers.

 

Each month of 2018 has resulted in record-breaking passenger numbers, also equating to GFIA recording its busiest first quarter in history. Through March 2018, GFIA has served 790,106 passengers- more than the first three years that the airport was in operation combined (1964- 1966).

 

“Our airline partners continue to invest here adding more service, more routes, and larger aircraft to accommodate our growing passenger traffic,” said Gill. “We hope our continued growth prompts even more service to give our West Michigan community more options and competitive pricing when they fly from the Ford Airport.”

 

The Ford Airport is coming off a 2017 that saw over 2.8 million passengers, the fifth straight year of record growth. GFIA has seen growth in 56 of the last 63 months.

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

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

Gerald R. Ford International Airport continues record-setting passengers trend

3-bottom, , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International (GFIA) Airport continues an upward passenger trend, and February was another record-setting month.

 

February saw 251,680 total passengers – up 16.31-percent from February 2017. Combined with a January that saw 13-percent growth, this now puts GFIA up 14.76-percent for 2018. February 2018 also goes down as the busiest February in airport history.

 

“That’s a pretty great feat considering February is the shortest month of the year!” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are seeing our 2017 record-breaking year trends continue into 2018, and we are still early in the year. We are about to head into our busy spring break season and we foresee breaking more records in our first quarter and into the summer.”

 

In 2017, 2,811,622 passengers flew in and out of GFIA, an increase of 5.95-percent from 2016. The Airport had growth in 11 of 12 months in 2017, and with January and February 2018 has now had 55 months of growth over a 62-month period.

 

 

The progression over the last five years started in 2013 with a passenger total of 2,237,979. In 2014, that number jumped to 2,335,105. In 2015, GFIA broke its own record once again with a passenger total record of 2,550,193 – a 9.21% year-over-year increase, and in 2016 the Airport served 2,653,630 passengers. The Airport has recorded the strongest growth in its 54-year history, serving over 12.5 million passengers from 2013-2017. Since opening its doors at its current location on 44th street, GFIA has served over 73-million passengers.

 

“Our tremendous milestones are results of our local passengers continuing to utilize our facilities, and all of our airline partners and airport tenants who have invested in more routes, and larger aircraft,” said Gill. “We will continue to grow, continue to see our airline partners invest in Grand Rapids, and continue to see a healthy, stimulated competitive market as long as we all work together as we have for the last several years.”

 

March 2017 is still the record-setter as the single busiest month in Airport history with 256,880 total passengers traveling through GFIA, breaking an all-time monthly record from July 2016.

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come. Our 2020 Vision is to hit the three million passenger mark.”

 

Monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: http://www.grr.org/History.php.

Consumers Energy Presents Energy Efficiency Incentive Check to Gerald R. Ford International Airport

3-bottom, , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is being recognized for having one of the best and most energy-efficient airports in the region. Consumers Energy presented a rebate check for $151,631 to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) today, as part of the company’s energy efficiency program which is saving the airport energy and money.

 

GFIA received the rebates for six projects totaling $151,631 and 2,140,991 kilowatt hours in annual savings – enough electricity to power nearly 300 Michigan homes for a year. The six projects include the most recent completion of the Gateway Transformation Project Phase One, work in the Airport’s parking garage, and upgrades in the Field Maintenance and Airport Rescue Firefighting facilities.

 

“Our airport is proud to receive recognition for being energy-efficient, and we are grateful to have partners like Consumers Energy who help us recognize areas where we can improve and be more resourceful,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “As we continue to expand our footprint during upcoming construction and make technology upgrades and improvements, we want to be as green as possible.”

 

Consumers Energy has helped Michigan customers save more than $1.5 billion through energy efficiency projects since 2009.

 

“Our commitment to world class performance delivering hometown service means we work every day helping customers like GFIA with creative solutions to reduce energy consumption. This is good for the planet, and also lowers energy bills which ultimately benefits Michigan’s economy,” said L

Gerald R. Ford International Airport breaks passenger record for fifth straight year

3-bottom, City of Kentwood,

These two young travelers were a part of the record-breaking year as they headed to Disney with their parents for Spring Break in April 2017.

 

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International (GFIA) Airport has set a new all-time milestone, marking the fifth straight year that the Airport has seen record-setting growth and recording the best year in airport history.

 

In 2017, 2,811,622 passengers flew in and out of GFIA, an increase of 5.95-percent from 2016. December growth helped cap the record-setting year with an increase of 8.19-percent year-over- year. December 2016 saw 216,017 total passengers, but 2017 surpassed that with 233,702 total enplaned and deplaned passengers – also marking the best December ever. The Airport had growth in 11 of 12 months in 2017, and has had 53 months of growth over a 60-month period. The increases in that five-year period range from months of 1.22-percent growth to 14.95-percent.

 

The progression over the last five years started in 2013 with a passenger total of 2,237,979. In 2014, that number jumped to 2,335,105. In 2015, GFIA broke its own record once again with a passenger total record of 2,550,193 – a 9.21% year-over-year increase, and in 2016 the Airport served 2,653,630 passengers. The Airport has recorded the strongest growth in its 54-year history, serving over 12.5 million passengers from 2013-2017. Since opening its doors at its current location on 44th street, GFIA has served over 73-million passengers.

 

“This is an incredible milestone to accomplish, and we could not have done this without our tremendous staff, our loyal passengers, and all of our airline partners and airport tenants,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill.

 

“We take pride in being a catalyst to the growing West Michigan community, and the investment our airline partners have made at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport has helped fuel this success. The airlines would not be investing here if they did not see an opportunity, and we continue to be successful because they are successful.”

 

March 2017 was the single busiest month in Airport history with 256,880 total passengers traveling through GFIA, breaking an all-time monthly record from July 2016.

 

Additionally, the airport has processed almost 2.5 billion pounds of cargo since 1967. Cargo totals for 2017 hit 88.2 million pounds – a 2.56-percent increase over 2016.

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come. Our 2020 Vision is to hit the three million passenger mark.”

 

The Airport will be celebrating this historic passenger record with daily surprises and giveaways by ‘paying it forward’ to passengers throughout the next week. GFIA Facebook ‘paying it forward’ to passengers throughout the next week. GFIA Facebook (www.facebook.com/GeraldRFordInternationalAirport) and Twitter (@FlyGRFord) will have updates on these promotions.

 

Monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: http://www.grr.org/History.php

New checkpoint open to all GFIA passengers

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Our Cities, Travel, , ,

Passengers are screened at the new consolidated security checkpoint as a part of the Gateway Transformation Project. (Photo supplied.)

 

By Tara Hernandez, Gerald R. Ford International Airport

All passengers traveling through the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) are now being processed in one consolidated security checkpoint, the focal point of GFIA’s Gateway Transformation Project. Construction on the checkpoint was completed Saturday evening, and opened for passengers on Sunday, June 25. Concourse B passengers were processed through the area starting on Sunday, June 4th, but now both Concourse A & B passengers are being screened at the new checkpoint.

The checkpoint is one part of the Airport’s $45 million Gateway Transformation Project that also includes new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, new restrooms & nursing rooms, family restrooms, pre- and post-security business centers, new retail and food & beverage space, and much more. Different portions of the construction will open throughout the summer with phase one set to be complete in late August. Construction on the Gateway Transformation Project began in December 2015.

Passengers are screened at the new consolidated security checkpoint at GFIA. (Photo supplied.)

“We could not have asked for a smoother transition bringing all of our passengers together in our new consolidated checkpoint,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We have to thank our engineering staff for their tireless efforts, and our partners at the TSA for assisting in this transition. It really is a collaborative effort to pull off projects like this, and we’re already hearing from our passengers about how much they appreciate the new space.”

The new consolidated security checkpoint allocates TSA screening in one central location to fully utilize staffing, and make screening lines faster and more efficient.

A post-security Starbucks is set to open Friday, June 30, along with a redesigned Kids Play Area in the pre-security area.

Because some of the construction will have an impact on passenger operations throughout the terminal building, there will be updates, maps, photos, and other helpful tips listed on GFIA’s website: www.grr.org/construction. Signs and airport ambassadors are also available in the terminal building to assist with any passenger needs or directions.

Passengers are still encouraged to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before their scheduled flight due to high volumes of traffic with the busy summer and holiday weekend ahead.

 

Gerald R. Ford International Airport Senior VP & COO Announces Retirement

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , ,

GFIA Senior VP & COO Phil Johnson

By Tara Hernandez, Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) Senior Vice President & COO Phil Johnson has announced his retirement after more than 20 years at the Airport.

In his role at GFIA, Johnson has assisted the CEO in managing the day-to-day operations of the airport and directing airport activities. Johnson has also played a key role in assisting the airport in air service needs such as the addition of Southwest Airlines in 2013, and Allegiant Air in 2009, among others.

“Phil has been a valuable asset to our airport for more than two decades and we are thankful for his service,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “He leaves behind a legacy of always working diligently to make our Airport the best it could be. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

Johnson has held a number of aviation related positions prior to beginning his airport management career in 1989. Among these are  Systems Engineer for Hughes Aircraft Company — designing air defense and air traffic control systems; Air Traffic Control Specialist for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) — controlling air traffic at Oakland Air Route Traffic Control Center; and Manager, Aircraft Ground Services for National Air Enterprises — managing aircraft line service functions at a Fixed Base Operator (FBO).

In addition, Johnson is an Accredited Airport Executive with the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). He also holds professional affiliations with the Great Lakes Chapter of AAAE (GL-AAAE) and the Michigan Association of Airport Executives (MAAE).

“I have so many wonderful memories in my 22 years at the Ford Airport, and I feel blessed to call Grand Rapids home,” said Johnson. “It was a pleasure working with all of my coworkers over the years, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth and development within the Airport Authority.”

Johnson holds a Master of Science degree in Systems Management from the University of Southern California, a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Azusa Pacific University, and an Associate of Science degree in Air Traffic Management from Mount San Antonio College.

Johnson’s last day with GFIA is June 9th.

 

Make-A-Wish® Michigan names GFIA Community Partner Honoree of the year

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , ,

 

By Tara Hernandez, Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) was recognized as a Community Partner Honoree of the Year by Make-A-Wish® Michigan at the annual Wish Ball earlier this month.

 

As a part of Wish Ball-West Michigan, Make-A-Wish Michigan recognizes three honorees: an Individual Honoree, a Corporate Partner Honoree, and a Community Partner Honoree. Each honoree is selected based on the impact they have on the organization’s ability to grant wishes to Michigan children with life-threatening medical conditions.

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport was selected as the 2017 Community Partner Honoree because of its game-changing impact on the Make-A-Wish Michigan mission, as well as the Airport’s commitment to creating special experiences for wish kids and families as they leave for their wish journeys. GFIA also played a vital role in the enhancement of one such recipient, young Anthony, whose wish to become a pilot was the 9,000th wish granted by Make-A-Wish® Michigan. Anthony was also surprised at the ball as Grand Rapids Station Manager for Southwest Nate Tenbrink told the youngster that Southwest would be flying him to Dallas to experience the Flight Operations Center; he will also get to ride in a 737 simulator.

 

“What a tremendous honor to be recognized by Make-A-Wish Michigan among all of the wonderful partners in the community,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are proud to work with Make-A-Wish to make wishes come true, and to send the families off with a stress-free experience and a break from their times at medical appointments and hospital visits.”

 

Make-A-Wish Michigan has sent hundreds of kids and their families through the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, and 75-percent of wishes involve travel.

 

“The Gerald R. Ford International Airport … go[es] out of their way to provide special send offs and enhancements to our wish kids,” said Karen Davis, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Michigan. “This year’s Wish Ball theme was ‘Let Your Dreams Take Flight’, which is exactly what special friends like the Gerald R. Ford International Airport allow our wish children to do.”

 

With the help of generous donors and 40,000 volunteers worldwide, Make-A-Wish has collectively granted more than 415,000 wishes worldwide, making it the world’s largest wish-granting organization. For more information on Make-A-Wish Michigan, visit www.michigan.wish.org.

 

Gerald R. Ford International Airport records busiest month in its history

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , ,

 

By Tara M. Hernandez

 

March 2017 was the single busiest month in Gerald R. Ford International (GFIA) Airport history. The month’s passenger numbers were up 11.17 percent year-over-year, resulting in the busiest March ever, the busiest first quarter ever and breaking an all-time monthly record from July 2016.

 

“To have a record-breaker like this is incredible,” said GFIA Authority President and CEO Jim Gill. “Not only does it go down as the busiest month in Gerald R. Ford International Airport history, but to do it by over 10 percent is just tremendous.”

 

July 2016 was previously the business month in GFIA history with 238,237 total passengers. In March 2017, 256,880 total passengers traveled through GFIA — breaking the previous record by 7.83 percent.

 

Each month of 2017 has resulted in record-breaking passenger numbers, also equating to GFIA recording its busiest first quarter in history. Through March 2017, GFIA has served 685,278 passengers — up by almost 9 percent from 2016.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “We will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we only expect more growth in the years to come.”

 

Ford Airport partners with Kendall College for gateway mural

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , , , ,

By Tara M. Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has partnered with Kendall College of Art & Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) to create an interactive mural on the Airport’s temporary construction wall.

 

Behind the temporary construction wall in the Airport’s grand hall, construction teams are working on GFIA’s Gateway Transformation Project – a $45 million development that will consolidate security checkpoints, add more food and beverage, retail, and business center space. In addition, new restrooms, terrazzo flooring, nursing rooms, upgraded lighting, and more are a part of the construction improvements.

 

The Airport approached KCAD to cover its blank construction wall, and a team of three KCAD students – with the support of five other students and staff –  designed, created, and installed a horizontal world map. The mural will go live this afternoon, and passengers are encouraged to interact with the wall by using flags to pin-point where they are traveling to or from. Passengers are also encouraged to post their picture on Twitter or Facebook with the hashtag: #GRReatGateway.  When the construction wall comes down in June, one lucky social media winner will receive an airline gift card.

 

“This is a wonderful collaboration between our Airport and KCAD students to fill what would have otherwise been a blank, white construction wall,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We love the creative process that went into this, and we are excited to see our passengers’ pins – to see where they are traveling around the world.”

 

Spring Break for many West Michigan schools is approaching. The Airport’s annual Passenger Appreciation Days kicks off Thursday, March 30, Friday, March 31, and Saturday, April 1. The annual bon-voyage celebration is a way for the Airport to thank passengers for traveling through GRR during the busy Spring Break rush. Travelers are treated to free refreshments, food, giveaways, prize drawings, contests, and more.

 

“KCAD is thrilled to collaborate with the airport on this project. It’s a great experience for our students, who are especially excited to be able to list a project with an international airport on their resumes,” said KCAD Director of Student Engagement Nicole DeKraker, “and a fun, visual way to both celebrate the art-centric West Michigan community and demonstrate the role Grand Rapids plays in world travel.”

Gerald R. Ford International Airport breaks ground for Viewing Park expansion

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, ,

grf-viewing-file
Courtesy of Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

Over the years the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) Viewing Park — at 4820 Kraft Avenue SE, just north of 52nd — has become a popular spot for area workers to take a lunch break or for families to pack a picnic and enjoy a free afternoon spotting planes. The park is like catnip to aviation enthusiasts and photographers. And in July 2015, Grand Rapids Kids Magazine voted the park the “Best Kept Secret in Grand Rapids”.

 

As its popularity has grown, so has the need for an updated facility. Now the  Airport Viewing Park is getting a makeover.

 

GFIA, in partnership with the Cascade Community Foundation (CCF), broke ground Oct. 24 on the Airport Viewing Park Project, a $1.12 million renovation that will add a pavilion, permanent restrooms, new seating areas, expanded parking spaces and more.

 

grf-viewing
Courtesy of Gerald R. Ford International Airport

“We have heard over the years how enjoyable this viewing park is to our community, and we are happy to invest in our Airport Viewing Park to make it even better for future generations,” said GFIA Acting President & CEO Phil Johnson.

 

The Airport contributed $675,000 to the project, with the balance funded through CCF’s “Community is Our Middle Name” Capital Campaign.

 

“We are grateful for the community support that was essential to the success of the Cascade Community Foundations ‘Community is our Middle Name’ campaign,” said campaign co-chair Sheila VanZile. “The project couldn’t have happened without the significant support of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and their amazing team.”

 

After construction is completed, parking spaces will nearly double from 57 current spaces to 102 in the renovated lot. Additionally, there will be four bus parking spaces to accommodate school and tour groups. Guests will have more than double the seating of the old park with new picnic tables and benches, and a permanent restroom, new signage and more trash receptacles are being added.

 

Mathison & Mathison Architects designed the new Viewing Park, and contractor Owen Ames Kimball is the construction team.

 

The Airport Viewing Park should remain open during construction, but parking will be limited and – should closings occur – they will be posted via the Airport’s social media accounts. More photos and information on the project can be found here.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport records busiest month in airport history

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

airportJuly 2016 was the single busiest month in Gerald R. Ford International (GFIA) Airport history.

 

July passenger numbers were up 1.69% year-over-year; resulting in the busiest July ever, and breaking an all-time monthly record from July 2015.

 

“Month after month our numbers are increasing, and we could not be more thrilled by the support from our area passengers,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GFIAA) Acting President & CEO Phil Johnson.

 

July 2015 was previously the busiest month in GFIA history with 234,282 total passengers.  In July 2016, 238,237 total passengers traveled through GFIA.

 

The Airport is on pace to break its annual passenger total, already 3.24% ahead of passenger totals from 2015.  Through July 2016, GFIA has served 1,537,465 passengers.

 

“Our airline partners recognize this growth, and we are always working with them to add seats and flights to both existing and new destinations,” said Johnson. “These numbers also further justify the need for our Gateway Transformation Project, and the importance of our facilities keeping on pace with the passenger demand. Our investment in this project represents our commitment to improve amenities, infrastructure, technology, and customer service from our growing passenger base.”

 

Gateway Transformation Project construction began in December 2015 and is slated to continue through summer 2017. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which will centralize and combine security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport, eliminating separate screening for passengers traveling through either Concourse A or B.  Construction also includes new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, restroom & lactation stations, family restrooms, pre and post security business centers, new retail and food & beverage space, and much more.

 

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available at  http://www.grr.org/history.php.

Most excellent kudos for the Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Beer, Our Cities, Travel, , , , , , , , , ,

Gerald-R-Ford-International-Airport
Pretty darn snazzy, but not just a pretty face

By Victoria Mullen
victoria@wktv.org

 

You probably don’t give it a second thought—until you need it, that is. Nonetheless, it bustles about its business, transporting travelers to and from myriad destinations with first-class services and amenities. Over the years, it has been revamped, remodeled and reconstructed. Today, it bears absolutely no resemblance to its humble beginnings.

 

All these improvements have not gone unnoticed—or unrecognized—in an industry that’s fraught with cut-throat competition.

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has achieved the first-place ranking in the “Best Airports by Size and Region-North America” (2-5 million passengers per year) category, and tied for second place ranking in the “Best Airport by Region – North America” (all airports over two million passengers per year) category as a part of ACI’s 2015 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. These awards are granted by the Airports Council International (ACI) each year.

1963 GFIA
Kent County Airport (n/k/a Gerald R. Ford International Airport) circa 1963

 

Maybe you don’t think it’s any big deal, but it really is. The ACI ASQ program is unique as the airport industry’s only global bench-marking program measuring passenger satisfaction in real time while passengers are at the airport. Implemented at over 300 airports worldwide, the ASQ Program delivers an in-depth assessment of the quality of the customer service experience, covering 34 key service areas such as access, parking, check-in, security, airport facilities, food and beverage, and more.ervice areas such as access, parking, check-in, security, airport facilities, food and beverage, and more.

 

“Customer service is a top priority for our entire team at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and we are thrilled to be recognized as the top performer of our size in North America,” said GFIA Executive Director Brian Ryks. “We’re dedicated to ensuring continued progress in this area as we make significant investments in personnel, services, and facilities focused on providing a first-class experience from the vehicle curb to the aircraft gate. We are working to improve the passenger experience every day, and this award reflects that effort.”

 

“We see ever-greater competition among airports, and with it increasing pressure to optimize performance across the operation, especially when it comes to the passenger experience,” said ACI Director General, Angela Gittens. About GIF’s high marks, she said, “Your airport’s results in the 2015 ASQ Survey demonstrate your professionalism, commitment, and success in delivering that high level of customer service. Your airport is a credit to our industry and I thank you and your team for this splendid achievement.”

GFIA today
My, how things have changed

 

GFIA has continued to improve the customer experience from adding concession updates, complimentary, faster Wi-Fi, airport ambassadors, a therapy dog program, updated parking and valet services, new skycap services, and more. The airport has recently commenced its $45 million Gateway Transformation Project to consolidate security screening, update restrooms, new flooring, lighting, business centers, retail and food and beverage space.

 

“We are thankful for all of the tenants and stakeholders who are the front-line service providers behind this award,” said Ryks. “From the airlines to our parking services, law enforcement, and curb front security, to TSA and airport ambassadors – they do a tremendous job day-in and day-out to ensure the passengers have a quality experience at our airport. We are planning a celebration to thank and recognize these employees for their efforts.”

 

So, next time you visit GFIA, tip your hat–or mittens–to the men and women who strive to provide us with the best possible service.

 

For more information on ASQ, please go here. To view details of the 2015 ASQ results, please go here.
ACI-KPI-Report-banner-horizontal

Fresh Look for Concourse B at Ford Airport

Local Business,

by Janice Limbaugh

Concourse B has a fresh new look.
Concourse B has a fresh new look.

Visitors to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport are in for a fresh experience. Concourse B is officially renovated and expanded with two new airline gates, passenger hold room, restrooms and the much anticipated MI Tap Room Restaurant & Bar. Also included in the renovations is the Grand Rapids Magazine travel store.

 

“Our primary goal is to ensure travelers have a positive experience when transitioning through our airport,” says Brian Ryks, GFIA executive director. “The airport is the first and last impression when visiting our region and it is important travelers get a sense of what West Michigan has to offer as soon as they step off the aircraft.”

Concourse B Tulips in Gate Hold

 

At each gate walls feature West Michigan-themed murals of tulips, downtown buildings, shorelines and the Calder Plaza. The MI Tap Room features several local Michigan craft beers on tap along with a menu that’s locally themed.

Concourse B Concession node 1

 

Wednesday’s ribbon cutting ceremony for Concourse B completes the two year expansion project of both concourse A and B. Concourse A renovations included new seating, carpeting, food and beverage updates and an expansion of passenger hold rooms. Business travelers also appreciate the expanded work space and charging stations in the area.  A new Grand Rapids Magazine travel store was added there too.

 

Airport officials estimate the cost of the project to be $12.3 million.