Grand Rapids, Mich. – Despite record cold temperatures and winter storms, February was another record-breaking month for the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).
February 2019 marked the busiest February in GFIA history, beating out February 2018 for that record. The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 67 of the last 74 months, and 17 straight.
February 2019 saw 272,982 passengers compared to 251,680 in 2018 – an 8.46-percent increase year-over-year. Combined with January, GFIA is 7.84-percent ahead of 2018 passenger traffic - which was a record-breaking year with over 3.2 million passengers served.
“To continue our trend from 2018 into 2019 is quite a feat,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “The growth we have seen and the investment and excitement from our airline partners continue to spawn our upward trends. We are working hard to continue making facility improvements, and make the passenger experience an exceptional one.”
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.
Along with construction, the busy Spring Break season is underway. As passenger numbers continue to grow at GFIA and around the country, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more information to make security screening smoother are available at www.tsa.gov.
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 that will begin service in 2019 as well as the addition of a maintenance base. Nonstop service to SarasotaBradenton (SRQ) will begin 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 here.
About GFIA
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is the second busiest airport in Michigan. The Airport served over 3.26 million passengers in 2018 and over 8,000 travelers pass through GFIA each day. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport offers nonstop service to 29 major market destinations with more than 120 daily nonstop flights. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. GFIA generates over $3.1 billion in annual economic output throughout West Michigan, and employs over 2,000 people. For more information on GFIA visit: www.grr.org or follow the airport on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: @FlyGRFord
