Grand Rapids Airport: A Historical Overview Of Its Age

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has a long history dating back over a century. The airport's journey began in 1911 when a Wright biplane made the first-ever landing in the area at Comstock Park State Fairgrounds. It was a historic moment that sparked the region's aviation journey. The groundbreaking for Kent County's first airport took place in November 1919, and the facility opened as the Kent County Airport. Over the years, the airport has undergone expansions, improvements, and name changes, reflecting its growth and evolving role in the community. In 1999, it was renamed the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in honour of the 38th President of the United States, who represented the Grand Rapids area in the House of Representatives from 1949 to 1973. Today, the airport is a bustling hub, serving over two million passengers annually and offering nonstop routes to various destinations.

The airport's history, including its founding in 1919

The history of Grand Rapids Airport, now known as Gerald R. Ford International Airport, dates back over a century to the early days of aviation. On September 10, 1911, a Wright biplane made the first-ever landing in the area at Comstock Park State Fairgrounds, sparking the region's interest in flight.

Eight years later, on November 26, 1919, groundbreaking for Kent County's first airport took place four miles from downtown Grand Rapids. This airport, initially known as Kent County Airport, laid the foundation for aviation in the region and contributed significantly to its economic development. The airport's early years saw several notable achievements, including the commencement of the first scheduled air service in the United States between Grand Rapids and Dearborn on July 26, 1926, using a Ford-Stout monoplane named Miss Grand Rapids.

In the 1930s, the airport underwent significant improvements with the infusion of federal funds. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) remodelled the Administration building, constructed a new restaurant, and made enhancements to the runways, fencing, lighting, and more. Tom Walsh, a member of the Kent County Board of Supervisors, was appointed to manage the airport in March 1930, serving for almost three decades and leaving a lasting impact.

During World War II, the airport played a strategic role, meeting the requirements for night lighting, making it an ideal place to train transport pilots and conduct exercises. The first pilot cadet training program in Michigan commenced at Kent County Airport on July 1, 1942, with hundreds of military pilots receiving their primary and advanced flight instruction over the next two years.

As the airport continued to grow, it underwent several expansions and improvements over the years to accommodate increasing demand. In 1959, construction began on the present airport in Cascade Township, and on November 23, 1963, the official transfer of all air services to the new facility took place. The new airport was formally dedicated on June 6, 1964, with a grand air fair, including performances by the U.S. Navy "Chuting Stars" and the Blue Angels.

In December 1999, the airport was renamed Gerald R. Ford International Airport in honour of Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States, who represented the Grand Rapids area in the House of Representatives from 1949 to 1973. The airport has continued to expand and enhance its facilities, including the addition of new concourses, gates, and improved security checkpoints. Today, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the largest commercial airport in West Michigan and the second-largest in the state, serving over three million passengers annually.

The airport's name change to Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Grand Rapids Airport, officially known as Gerald R. Ford International Airport, is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The airport is approximately 13 miles southeast of Grand Rapids and is owned by the Kent County Board of Commissioners. The facility opened as the Kent County Airport and later became the Kent County International Airport.

In December 1999, the airport was renamed after Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States, who represented the Grand Rapids area in the House of Representatives from 1949 to 1973. The airport's history dates back to November 1919, when construction began on Kent County's first airport, four miles south of downtown Grand Rapids. The first scheduled air service in the United States was operated by a Ford-Stout monoplane named Miss Grand Rapids, which began flying between Grand Rapids and Dearborn on July 26, 1926.

Over the years, the airport has undergone several expansions and improvements, including the addition of new runways, runway widening, fencing, lighting, and the construction of a new restaurant. In 1959, construction began on the present airport in Cascade Township, and it officially opened on November 23, 1963, with a dedication ceremony held on June 6, 1964. The airport has continued to grow and develop, serving over two million passengers annually and offering nonstop routes to various destinations.

The airport provides convenient access to global destinations and plays a vital role in supporting the local economy through tourism and business travel. It offers a range of amenities, including dining options, retail outlets, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable lounges. With its strategic location and comprehensive services, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is an important transportation hub for travellers in West Michigan.

The airport's location and transport links

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is located in Cascade Township, around 13 miles southeast of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The airport is owned by the Kent County Board of Commissioners and is managed by an independent authority. It is the largest commercial airport in West Michigan and the second-largest airport in Michigan, covering 3,127 acres.

The airport is situated at the intersection of 44th Street and Patterson Avenue, with easy access to several highways: I-96 on the east, M-6 on the south, M-37 on the west, and M-11 on the north. This convenient location provides good road connections to and from the airport.

For passengers travelling to and from the airport, there are various ground transportation options available. These include taxi and luxury sedan services provided by Metro Cab and Metro Cars, as well as on-site rental car companies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz/Dollar, and National/Alamo.

In terms of public transportation, the Rapid route 27, Airport Industrial, connects the airport to Woodland Mall (Kentwood Station). This bus service operates on weekdays between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., providing passengers with a convenient option to get to and from the airport. From Woodland Mall, passengers can easily transfer to other bus routes to reach downtown Grand Rapids or other areas in the city.

In addition to the public bus service, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in the area. However, some passengers have noted that finding an Uber or Lyft during early morning hours, such as before 6:00 a.m., can be challenging. As a result, it is recommended to schedule rides in advance or opt for taxi services during those times.

The airport also offers a variety of parking options, including Premier Parking, Short-Term Garage Parking, Long-Term Garage Parking, Long-Term North Lot, and Economy Lot. Each option has different rates and proximity to the terminal, providing passengers with a range of choices depending on their needs and budget.

The airport's parking facilities and fees

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport offers a range of parking facilities to suit different needs and budgets. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking options, with varying rates and proximity to the terminal. Here is an overview of the parking facilities and their associated fees:

Premier Parking

Premier Parking is the closest parking option to the terminal building, offering covered parking on the first level of the parking garage. It provides a private entrance and exit through the car rental lane, along with a gated area for added security. Premier Parking is available at a daily rate of $36 and cannot be accessed without a prior reservation. This option is ideal for those seeking the utmost convenience and proximity to the terminal.

Short-Term Garage Parking

The short-term parking garage is suitable for those picking up or dropping off guests at the airport. It is located near the terminal building and charges an hourly rate of $2 without a daily maximum. This option is intended for short stays, and travellers needing multi-day parking are advised to opt for long-term parking.

Long-Term Garage Parking

The long-term garage parking option offers covered parking within the parking garage, located near the terminal. It is available at a rate of $2 per hour or a daily maximum of $24. This choice is suitable for travellers seeking covered parking with convenient access to the terminal.

Long-Term North Lot

The North Lot is a long-term parking option situated at a 5-10 minute walking distance from the terminal. There is no shuttle service available for this lot, and travellers need to walk through the parking garage to reach the terminal. The daily rate for the North Lot is $17.

Economy Lot

The Economy Lot is a more affordable long-term parking choice, located further away from the terminal. It offers a 24/7 shuttle service to and from the airport terminal for added convenience. The rate for this lot is $14 per day, making it a cost-effective option for travellers.

Cell Phone Lot

The airport also provides a Cell Phone Lot for individuals picking up arriving passengers. This lot offers free parking, but vehicles must be attended at all times, and there is no option to leave your car unattended.

In addition to these options, there are alternative parking services offered by Parkobility, with daily rates starting at $6.95 and including a free shuttle service. These rates are generally lower than the official airport parking, providing a more budget-friendly choice.

Overall, the parking facilities at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport cater to diverse traveller needs, offering a range of rates, locations, and convenience. Whether seeking covered parking, proximity to the terminal, or budget-friendly options, travellers can find a suitable parking choice at the airport.

The airport's restaurants and shops

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids offers a variety of dining options and shops for travellers to enjoy. Whether you're an avid foodie, a coffee aficionado, or a shopaholic, you'll find something to suit your taste.

For those seeking a full-service dining experience, Aletitude, overseen by Paradies Lagardère, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Crowd favourites include the chicken and bacon flatbread, breakfast sandwich, and Bavarian pretzel. Another great option is Prospect Hill, located in the post-security Marketplace, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and also features a "Grab 'n Go" window for travellers on the move.

If you're looking for a quick bite or a cup of coffee, there are several options to choose from. Blue Bridge Market offers West Michigan favourites such as Madcap Coffee and Nantucket Bakery. Starbucks is also available pre-flight, with their full beverage menu, including espresso drinks and Frappuccinos. Freddy's, located on Concourse A, is known for its famous steakburgers, frozen custard, and breakfast options.

For travellers seeking a unique combination of food and drink, INK by Hudson is a wine bar and contemporary bookstore that offers local Michigan wines, a variety of books, travel essentials, and gifts.

When it comes to shopping, the airport has a range of options to meet your needs. Thornapple Essentials offers snacks, toiletries, clothes, and other last-minute items you may need for your journey. The Grand Rapids Magazine Travel Store is your go-to for travel essentials, including books, magazines, apparel, snacks, and travel gear. They also carry electronics like portable chargers, headphones, and earbuds to enhance your flight experience.

With a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops to choose from, travellers at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport are sure to find something to enjoy while waiting for their flight or during a layover.

Frequently asked questions