The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is once again a contender for the USA Today's 'Best Small Airport' accolade, marking its position as a finalist in the reader's choice category. In previous years, the airport near Grand Rapids has fared well, securing the top position in 2023 and the second spot in 2024 with the support of USA Today 10Best readers. Voting for this year's top 10 small airports is open through October 6, allowing daily input from the public, as reported by WOOD TV.
In a confirmation of consistency and quality, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is looking to secure firmly itself amongst the ranks of the esteemed for the third consecutive year. "We are honored to once again be selected as a reader’s choice finalist for best small airport in 2025," Tory Richardson, the President and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, expressed in a statement obtained by WOOD TV. Richardson highlighted the airport's commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through continuous infrastructure investments and an expanding roster of nonstop destinations.
The airport has been recognized for its impressive growth, reaching a historic 4.17 million passengers in 2024. It is currently in the midst of an ambitious $600 million expansion project known as Elevate, which includes various upgrades such as a consolidated car rental facility, a relocated air traffic control tower, and additional nonstop domestic flights, with international flights on the horizon. Notably, these enhancements have been met with enthusiasm from local communities and have supported an increase in passenger traffic, according to FOX 17.
The accolades for Gerald R. Ford International Airport are part of a broader context where regional airports garner recognition, with Cherry Capital Airport and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport also being finalists in their respective categories. This nod to Michigan's airports signifies a robust infrastructure that increasingly serves the state's air travel needs. "We are grateful to our team, partners, and community for making this nomination possible. To help us reach the #1 spot for best small airport, please vote online each day for the Gerald R. Ford International Airport," encouraged Richardson, in a call to action shared by GRR's news release.
As the second-busiest airport in Michigan, Gerald R. Ford International Airport maintains a vital role, contributing over $7 billion annually to the local economy and supporting more than 40,000 jobs. Its ambitious ELEVATE project, valued at over $750 million, aims to enhance the airport's infrastructure and capabilities, thereby ensuring continued growth and improved services for passengers. This ongoing investment outlines Ford International Airport as a key player in Michigan's economic development, as documented in the overview provided by GRR's press statement.
