WOOD Radio Local News

WOOD Radio Local News

WOOD Radio Local News

 

Gerald R. Ford International ranked as nation's top small airport

CASCADE TOWNSHIP, Mich. -- For the second time in the past three years, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport ranks number one in the USA TODAY Reader’s Choice Awards as the nation's best small airport.

Ford International ranked second last year in the 10Best poll.

The USA Today.com article gushed about the airport's amenities:

"Named in honor of the 38th president of the United States, Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) serves as the gateway to the sprawling eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Amenities include a dedicated Military Welcome Center, plane-themed playrooms for younger guests, a self-serve wine wall featuring local wineries, and more."

A panel of experts whittled the list of top airports down to 20, and then the public got to vote. Ford International Airport spokesperson Heidi Groenboom tells WOOD Radio that $500 million in infrastructure improvements throughout the airport have made the airport stand out.

That includes a major expansion of Concourse A., and various amenities in Concourse B.

"We're just really continuing to try spaces that enhance the traveler experience," said Heidi Groenboom in a telephone interview. She is the airport's Communications & Events Associate.

Ford International served more than 4-million passengers in 2024.

"We're just grateful to be part of such a strong community, who really like this airport and support this airport," Groenboom said. She thanked the public for helping the airport achieve a lofty status.

The ongoing projects include Ford International's $135 million Terminal Enhancement Project and, as mentioned, the expansion of Concourse A.

"The past couple of year, eight new gates, lots of new concessions and restaurants, and other amenities such as our sensory room and post-security pet-relief area."

Ford International provided more information in a news release:

The 20 finalists for the category were selected by a panel of experts and then voted on by the public. Voting was open from Sept. 8 until Oct. 6 with the public being invited to cast one vote per person, per day.

The panel consisted of editors from USA TODAY and 10Best.com, expert contributors and industry sources. The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards series highlight top-notch attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations.

“We are honored that the best guests in the country have helped us win the #1 spot for the best small airport!” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President & CEO Tory Richardson said. “The community’s incredible support continues to propel our commitment to providing a world-class airport experience, and we are thrilled to have won this award for the community.”

The top ten winners in the best small airport category were:

  1. Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) 
  2. Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)
  3. Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
  4. Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) 
  5. Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) 
  6. Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) 
  7. Huntsville International Airport (HSV)
  8. Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) 
  9. Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
  10. Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) 

 

Surpassing a record-breaking number of 4 million passengers in 2024, the Ford International Airport serves as West Michigan’s gateway to the world. The Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, which has more than 100 team members who are responsible for the infrastructure and maintenance of airport facilities. Additionally, more than 1,300 team members from eight airlines, food and beverage providers, maintenance facilities and several other partners come together to offer air service and amenities to guests.

“We thank everyone who took the time to cast their vote for the Ford International Airport,” Richardson continued. “We also thank our dedicated team members and partners who help provide an exceptional guest experience to this award-winning airport.”

 

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