Gerald R. Ford International Airport sets new record with 4.17 million passengers, celebrating a nearly 10% increase over 2023 figures.
Ford International Airport Celebrates Record-Breaking 4 Million Passengers
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Gerald R. Ford International Airport has reached a historic milestone, surpassing 4 million passengers in 2024 for the first time in its history. The airport recorded 4,172,068 passengers, representing an almost 10% increase over the previous record set in 2023.
“This achievement is a testament to the growth of West Michigan, and we are 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.”
Celebration Event Marks Historic Achievement
To commemorate this milestone, the airport is hosting festivities throughout the terminal today, February 4. Passengers can enjoy live music, a yoga class, complimentary swag, and a visit from the West Michigan Therapy Dogs as part of the celebratory activities.
The Ford International Airport was recently ranked among the top 10 best small airports in the U.S. by USA TODAY, further solidifying its role as a key transportation hub in West Michigan.
“With tremendous thanks to our community, we are honored to have been voted #1 best small airport by USA TODAY in 2023 and to be selected once again as a reader’s choice finalist for best small airport in 2024,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “From our front-of-house facelift to the expansion of Concourse A, we are committed to fostering meaningful connections that enhance the guest experience.
Massive Investment to Support Passenger Growth
As part of its long-term vision, Ford International Airport is investing over $750 million in critical infrastructure upgrades through its ELEVATE capital expansion campaign. This ambitious plan includes six major projects aimed at sustaining passenger growth and enhancing economic development in the region.
In 2024, the airport broke ground on its $135 million Terminal Enhancement Project, extending the west end of the terminal to include new public spaces, additional ticketing areas, and a consolidated baggage inspection system for checked luggage. The expansion includes:
- Expanded baggage claim area with larger carousels to facilitate a more seamless and modernized baggage claim process for arriving passengers.
- A Consolidated Baggage Inspection System, or CBIS, on the lower level of the terminal, streamlining the checked luggage process from the airline ticketing counter through screening and onto the aircraft.
- An Individual Carrier System, or ICS, for baggage handling screening. This will make the Ford International Airport the first small-hub airport in the U.S. to install an ICS.
- New ticket counter spaces and the consolidation of all airline ticketing counters to the west end of the terminal.
Expansion efforts are also underway on the terminal’s east side, where Michigan’s first Consolidated Rental Car Facility (CONRAC) is expected to open in 2026. These initiatives underscore the airport’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience and supporting economic growth in West Michigan.
Ford Airport’s Expanding Reach and Operations
Ford International Airport currently serves seven commercial airline partners offering nonstop flights to over 30 destinations, along with one dedicated cargo airline. In 2024, the airport handled over 80,000 aircraft operations and processed more than 65 million pounds of cargo.
With its rapid expansion and strategic investments, the airport continues to strengthen its role as a regional economic driver, supporting over 40,000 jobs and contributing more than $7 billion annually to the local economy.
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