Airport Overview
Gerald R. Ford International Airport is a commercial public airport in Cascade Township. The airport is named after Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States.
GRR is located approximately 13 miles (21 km) southeast of Grand Rapids, Michigan. It is owned by the Kent County Board of Commissioners and managed by an independent authority.
Airport Stats & Facts
- Gerald R. Ford airport covers an area of 3,127 acres (1,265 ha).
- The airport is the largest commercial airport in the West Michigan region.
- It is the second-largest airport in Michigan.
- For 2017-2021, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems has categorized it as a small hub primary commercial service facility.
- In 2019, the airport served more than 3 million passengers.
Airport Traveling Tips
- Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to departure to allow time to check-in, proceed through security, and arrive at the gate in advance of boarding.
- Travelers should make sure to carry all the required documents including passport, photo ID, etc.
- Before visiting the airport, please refer to GRR Airport map here.
Passenger Pickup and Drop-off
- If you are picking someone up and they are not ready and waiting on the curb, it’s suggested to park in the cell phone lot located off of Pederson Court.
- You may wait in your vehicle for your passenger to call and then proceed to the curb front to pick them up.
- Passengers can be dropped off at the terminal building curb front.
- Just remember the curb is limited to immediate pick-up and drop-off only. Vehicles may not park or wait at the terminal curb front.
Flight Status
- The Arrival flight status provides the arrival times, gate information, delays, and time to land for Gerald R. Ford Airport.
- The Departing flight status lists scheduled vs actual departure, gate information, map tracking, and flight delays.
- To get the best fares, book a flight at GRR here.
Airport Terminals
Grand Rapids Airport has a passenger terminal with two concourses - Concourse A and Concourse B.
There are seven gates on Concourse A and eight gates on Concourse B.
To see the terminal location, and for more information, please have a look at GRR terminal map.
Airlines Served
The various airlines served at Gerald R. Ford International Airport includes Allegiant Air, United Express, Delta Airlines, Delta Connection, American Eagle, and more.
View the full list of airlines served at GRR here.
Airport Parking
Short-Term Parking
The short term parking lot at Gerald R. Ford Airport is one of the convenient parking options.
Rates:
First hour: $2
Each additional ½ hour: $1
Daily maximum: $24
Per week: $168
Long-Term Parking
Long-term garage parking is another convenient parking option at Gerald R. Ford Airport.
Rates:
First hour: $2
Daily maximum: $18
Per week: $126
Ground Transport
Passengers have plenty of options for ground transportation after arriving at Gerald R. Ford Airport. From rental cars to public transportation to taxis, and more, they can choose according to their requirements and comfort.
Car Rentals
The rental car agencies’ counters are located on the first level of the parking garage. Passengers can look for the rental car return lane as they approach the parking garage.
Taxis
If you want to use the taxi service from GRR, exit the terminal through door #5, and go to the climate controlled Parking Shuttle Shelter on the boulevard. There, a taxi starter will assist you with your cab arrangements and get you on your way.
Buses
Public transportation is one of the most economical traveling options from Gerald R. Ford Airport. The Rapid bus system includes a stop at GRR on their route, Rapid route 17, Woodland/Airport, travels between the airport and Woodland Mall (Kentwood Station) on weekdays.
Amenities & Services
For visitors to have an amazing stay, Gerald R. Ford International Airport provides plenty of amenities and services including:
- Store, gift shops, and local souvenir shops.
- Restaurants, bars, and cafes.
- Shoeshine stations, and massage bars.
- Free Wi-Fi internet throughout the airport.
- Multiple art installations and exhibits on display.
- Vending machines, and banks/ATMs.
Contact Information
Address: 5500 44th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512, USA
Website: https://www.grr.org/
Contact: [email protected]
Phone: (616) 233 6000 / fax 6025
Gerald R. Ford Airport: A Brief History Timeline
- In November 1919, Grand Rapids' first airport broke ground.
- The airport was operated by the Kent County Board of Supervisors.
- In 1959, the county began construction on the present airport in Cascade Township, several miles east of the first.
- On January 27, 1977, the Board of Commissioners renamed Kent County Airport as Kent County International Airport.
- In 2004 the airport served more than 2 million passengers for the first time in a year.
- From April 2010 through October 2011, the airport was a focus city for Allegiant Air.
- In 2013 the airport began building a natural treatment system to improve stormwater management practices and safeguard the waters of the Thornapple River.
- In November 2018 the airport began the phase II of the Gateway Transformation Project, reconstructing the baggage claim, check-in, and front of house areas, and have completed the apron reconstruction adding new pavement to the apron and taxiway areas.
- In late August 2019, the airport made an announcement about its next focus, Project Elevate.
