95.3 / 88.5 FM Grand Rapids and 95.3 FM Muskegon
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Gerald R. Ford International Airport hits 4-million passenger mark

Passengers at Gerald R. Ford International Airport
albind
/
Ford Airport
Passengers at Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Officials announced the record-breaking number Tuesday. Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric explains what the growth shows about the West Michigan region

“We welcomed 4.17 million passengers in 2024. This represents a 10% increase over 2023 numbers which was also a record-breaking year at 3.79 million passengers.”

COO Alex Peric recognizes a growing airport is a marker for a growing economic region, noting the airport estimates a conservative 2.5-3% growth each year for planning critical infrastructure improvements.

It is in the midst of a $600 million upgrade investment.

“West Michigan - specifically Grand Rapids - is leading the Midwest in population growth so population growth equals more trips, more flights for the community and we’ve been a beneficiary of West Michigan’s growth in population and the vibrancy it brings.”

The airport has added amenities to enhance the traveler experience such as more restaurants and retail, premier parking that is close and covered for winter months, and there’s the ongoing discussions with the current airlines to add more flights, and with other airlines to bring more service.

“We continue to discuss with our airline partners adding international service as well as with customs and border patrol to work on a federal inspection station at Ford Airport.”

There are currently seven airlines and 30 nonstop flights at the airport.

Related Content