New $135 Million Ticketing and Baggage Investment Positions the Airport as a National Leader in Airport Innovation
GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan, August 26, 2026 – The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is celebrating the grand opening of major enhancements delivered through its Terminal Enhancement Project, marking a significant milestone in the Airport's ongoing ELEVATE capital development program. The newest improvements introduce a transformed ticketing experience, expanded passenger processing capabilities and one of the nation's most advanced checked baggage handling systems.
The Terminal Enhancement Project, which broke ground in April 2024, expands the terminal’s west end and represents a $135 million investment in the Airport's future. The expansion is designed to accommodate continued passenger growth while enhancing efficiency, safety and the overall guest experience.
"This is a transformational moment for the Ford International Airport and for West Michigan," said Tory Richardson, President and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. "As passenger demand continues to reach new heights, these enhancements ensure our airport remains a modern, efficient and welcoming gateway for the millions of travelers who rely on us each year."
At the heart of the project is a new Consolidated Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) utilizing an Individual Carrier System (ICS) to create a single, integrated baggage screening network that improves operational efficiency and strengthens security. The system increases baggage processing capacity from approximately 600 bags per hour to nearly 1,000 bags per hour when fully operational.
The advanced ICS technology uses RFID-enabled totes to transport checked luggage throughout the screening process, improving tracking, reliability and throughput. The Ford International Airport is the first airport in the United States to pair this technology with a self-service bag check process.
"The Terminal Enhancement Project reflects our commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience while preparing for the future growth of our region," said Dan Koorndyk, Chair of the Airport Authority Board. "These investments strengthen our ability to serve travelers, support our airline partners and contribute to the continued economic vitality of West Michigan."
The Terminal Enhancement Project also includes expanded ticketing areas, consolidated airline check-in counters and enhancements that will improve passenger flow throughout the terminal.
Starting on September 9th, guests traveling on American Airlines, United Airlines and Frontier Airlines will experience the Ford International Airport’s new ticketing and self-service baggage check options. The redesigned system allows travelers to check in at kiosks, tag their own luggage and utilize automated bag drop technology, streamlining their journey from curb to gate. Additional airline partners are expected to transition to the new space by the end of 2027.
To help guests become acquainted with new options, the Airport has developed a simple instructional video. There will be additional staff available during the roll-out to help with navigation and answer any questions. Guests who prefer traditional check-in methods will still be able to check in with a ticketing agent.
The airport is proud to share this milestone with partners including The Christman Company who is serving as the project construction manager, the architect of record Corgan, design team lead and project manager VTC, engineer Fishbeck and Beumer Group, the contractor for the baggage handling system.
The Terminal Enhancement Project investment of $135 million in West Michigan is supporting over 1,350 in-state jobs including more than 850 direct construction jobs.
As part of the broader ELEVATE program, the Airport is investing more than $600 million in critical infrastructure projects designed to increase capacity, enhance the customer experience and expand global connectivity opportunities for West Michigan.
No local taxpayer dollars are being used to finance any of the projects included in the ELEVATE program, which will be paid for with a combination of federal and state grants, municipal bonds issued by the Airport and user fees.
In addition to the TEP, several additional infrastructure improvements under the ELEVATE program are also underway or have been completed, including:
- Relocation of the air traffic control tower, to make way for diverse terminal-area developments such as additional tenant hangars and more parking. The Federal Aviation Administration has selected a new site and completed design of a new tower on the east side of the airport. The tower is ready for construction pending federal funding.
- The addition of a federal inspection station, which will enable the Airport to offer nonstop international commercial passenger flights. The first phase – the addition of a new baggage claim area, restrooms and operational infrastructure – has been completed and are currently being used for domestic flights.
- The expansion of Concourse A, which opened in 2024 and added eight new gates, increased the number of concession and retail options, added an executive lounge and provided a greater variety of seating options.
- The creation of a new Consolidated Rental Car Facility, or CONRAC, which opened in July 2026, brought all rental car operations under one roof, streamlining activities for rental car partners while enhancing the guest experience and increasing capacity.
- Additional parking capacity to accommodate increased guest traffic.
For more information about the Terminal Enhancement Project and other ongoing ELEVATE developments, please visit FlyFord.org/ELEVATE.
About the Ford Airport
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the second busiest airport in Michigan, serving business and leisure travelers with nonstop and connecting flights on eight airlines. The Ford Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. For more information, visit www.flyford.org or follow the airport on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram @FlyGRFord.
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