Midwest Express revealed the Elite Airways aircraft, complete with exterior Midwest Express branding, that will service initial flight destinations to Cincinnati, OH (CVG), Omaha, NE (OMA), and Grand Rapids, MI (GRR). The plane arrived at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport this afternoon where travelers were treated to the legendary Midwest Express chocolate chip cookie that will be baked onboard all Midwest Express-marketed flights.
“Today is a monumental day in our efforts to return Midwest Express to the air, and we are excited to serve the Milwaukee-Grand Rapids route which has been in demand for some time,” said Greg Aretakis, president of Midwest Express. “We received input from many local businesses regarding their travel needs and this feedback factored into our choice of initial destinations.”
According to Aretakis, Midwest Express is in the process of establishing its flight booking system, and will be hiring key staff positions. Through the partnership with Elite Airways, flight operations will be provided by Elite. In addition, Elite Airways will support Midwest’s efforts to pursue regulatory and operational requirements necessary for Midwest to obtain its own airline operating certificate and aircraft.
The Midwest Express-branded aircraft displayed at the event was a 50-seat Bombardier CRJ 200 jet, one of a number of jet aircraft models flown by Elite Airways.
“The drive from West Michigan to Milwaukee is not an easy one around the lake, and what could take up to six hours in a car, will now be a convenient 40-minute flight, thanks to the relaunch of Midwest Express, and the service they will offer between Grand Rapids and Milwaukee,” said Brian Picardat, Interim President & CEO at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. “We’re excited about this opportunity to connect our thriving West Michigan business community with our friends across the lake.”
“Bringing back Midwest Express and its special brand of customer service has been something we keep hearing from the business community, and today, that reality has never been closer. In the coming weeks, we will complete our final steps to begin marketing flights before the end of this year,” added Aretakis.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GFIA) announced today that William “Bill” Nowicki has been hired as its new Chief Airport Law Enforcement Officer.
Nowicki, who comes to Gerald R. Ford International Airport after 27 years with the Grand Rapids Police Department, was officially sworn in today.
“Bill is a tremendous addition to our airport staff and brings an array of law enforcement knowledge,” said GFIA Public Safety & Operations Director Lisa Carr. “Bill has an incredible resume and is well known and well respected among his peers. He brings a diverse set of experience and leadership to the department, and I am confident Bill will be a great fit with the team.”
Nowicki has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Ferris State University. He is also a graduate of the School of Police Staff and Command from Northwestern University, and a graduate of the Leadership Institute at Calvin College.
William Nowicki is the new police chief at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Ford Airport)
The St. Clair, Michigan native has an extensive background in law enforcement and has served as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Detective, and Patrol Sergeant. In 2004 he was promoted to Lieutenant and in that role, he has served as a Watch Commander, Administrative Lieutenant, and since 2013 he has served as the Unit Commander of the Vice Unit.
During his career at the Grand Rapids Police Department, Nowicki has received numerous awards including a Commendation Award, Team Performance Award, Achievement Award, Honorable Mention Award, four Unit Performance Awards, and many Letters of Commendation and Recognition. Locally, Chief Nowicki serves on the Kent County Opioid Task Force, Illicit Massage Industry work group, City of Grand Rapids Human Trafficking Task Force, and Ferris State University’s School of Criminal Justice Alumni Advisory Committee.
“I am thrilled to join the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority team,” said Nowicki. “The airport continues to grow, and I am looking forward to bringing my skills and knowledge of public safety and law enforcement into a new environment where security is held to the highest standard.”
“We pride ourselves on safety and security, and Bill’s experience will be a great fit in working with the Transportation Security Administration, Department of Homeland Security, and building our internal law enforcement department,” said Brian Picardat, Interim CEO at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
Nowicki replaces Chief Rick Aro, who retired in March.
June passenger numbers topped nine percent, and the month goes down as the busiest June in history at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).
Through June 2019, 1,770,050 passengers have traveled through the airport, and overall passenger traffic is up 11-percent from 2018 – the busiest year in GFIA history.
June 2019 saw 309,439 passengers compared to 282,863 in 2018. It also marks the busiest second quarter and busiest first half on record – also beating out 2018 totals. On average, 9,779 passengers are coming through the airport each day.
The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 71 of the last 78 months and 21 straight.
“2019 continues to be an impressive year and the growth we’ve seen in our community is concurrent to the growth at our airport,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “With new additions in air service, summer travel trends peaking upwards, and an overall satisfaction with our services at the Ford Airport we’re continuing to see these numbers climb. ”
Airline partner Allegiant started new nonstop service to Nashville (BNA), and Savannah-Hilton Head (SAV) in early June. Additionally, Allegiant started nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) in April, and is adding flights to New Orleans (MSY), and Jacksonville (JAX) in October.
With the growth, GFIA has invested in its facilities and is currently underway in Phase Two of its Gateway Transformation Project which includes updates to the baggage claim area, airline ticket counters, flooring and lighting; along with new restrooms and concessions. Updates on construction at the airport can be found here: https://www.grr.org/construction.php
As passenger numbers continue to grow at GFIA, those traveling areadvised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more information to make security screening smother are available at www.tsa.gov.
GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available at https//www.flyford.org
President Gerald R. Ford’s daughter, Susan Ford Bales, joined the aiport staff at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport last week for a private ceremony unveiling Betty Ford Drive.
According to an airport representative, the Ford Airport had an unnamed road on airport property, and there was a contest with our airport authority employees to “Name That Road.” The name Betty Ford Drive was chosen after an employee vote. Two of our employees, Jody Naimo and Ryan Schaner, came up with the name to honor the former First Lady as there is no other Betty Ford Drive location in West Michigan.
Bales also showed off the new road sign at the Whitecaps game this past Saturday, and sailors from the USS Gerald R. Ford threw out the first pitch for the game. On Sunday, Bales joined the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation at a wreath laying on her father’s grave for what would have been his 106th Birthday.
May passenger numbers topped 13.4-percent and the month goes down as the busiest May in history at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).
Through May 2019, 1,460,611 passengers have traveled through the airport, and overall passenger traffic is up 11.5-percent from 2018 – the busiest year in GFIA history.
May 2019 saw 296,202 passengers compared to 261,281 in 2018. May 2019 also beats out May 2018 as the busiest May in airport history.
The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 70 of the last 77 months and 20 straight.
“The community continues to grow, and we’re a reflection of that growth,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “We see new developments everywhere, new businesses, and tremendous investments in our community. People should be proud to know West Michigan is a hidden gem among the aviation industry and the more we grow, the more airlines will be investing new routes and more frequencies here.”
The growth is expected to continue in 2019 as airline partner Allegiant started new nonstop service to Nashville (BNA), and Savannah-Hilton Head (SAV) last week. Additionally, Allegiant started nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) in April.
With the growth, GFIA has invested in its facilities and is currently underway in Phase Two of its Gateway Transformation Project which includes updates to the baggage claim area, airline ticket counters, flooring and lighting; along with new restrooms and concessions. Updates on construction at the airport can be found here: https://www.grr.org/construction.php
As passenger numbers continue to grow at GFIA, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more information to make security screening smoother are available at www.tsa.gov.
Country music, a guitar-shaped cake, and plenty of cowboy hats helped kick off a celebration at the Ford Airport today. Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ: ALGT) began new nonstop routes from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) to Nashville International Airport (BNA). Guests were treated to music from Gunnar and the Grizzly Boys, and local officials, staff, and politicians joined in the celebratory event.
“Thank you to Allegiant for investing in this service,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat at today’s news conference. “Nashville has been on the list of nonstops that the Ford Airport has been pin-pointing for some time, so this is a big win today.”
Allegiant flies nonstop from Grand Rapids to Phoenix-Mesa, Punta Gorda, Orlando, St. Pete/Clearwater, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Sarasota, and now Nashville. Starting tomorrow, June 7, Allegiant is starting new service to Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), marking its ninth destination out of Grand Rapids.
“The Ford Airport has had six years of record-breaking growth, and that growth would not be possible without our airline partners investing in Grand Rapids,” said GFIA Board Chairman Dan Koorndyk. “In those last six years over 15-million passengers have come through our airport.”
In addition to new flights, Allegiant began operating a base in Grand Rapids on Tuesday, June 4. Allegiant’s growth plans in the state include creating 66 new, high-wage jobs, and establishing a two-aircraft base at the Ford Airport.
“Grand Rapids has been a great city for Allegiant, with solid demand and steady growth over the years,” said Keith Hansen, vice president of government affairs for Allegiant. “It’s a perfect location for a permanent base, where having locally-based aircraft and crews will open a world of opportunity to expand options for both new service and operational hours. This will make travel even more convenient and affordable for both residents and visitors to the area, and further establish Allegiant as a hometown airline for Grand Rapids.”
Allegiant has served Grand Rapids since 2009. The Nashville flights will operate twice weekly, and flight days, times, and the lowest fares can be found only at www.allegiant.com.
That means a lot of people will be heading off to visit family and friends as well as checking out destination points such as the Bahamas; Virginia Beach, or Miami. With that in mind, the Transportation Security Administration or TSA recently hosted an informational event to remind travelers what they can and can not take on the airplane.
During June and July 2018, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport had about 550,000 passengers move through the airport. Those numbers are expected to increase this year as the Ford Airport was recently named the second fastest-growing airport by Airline Weekly.
TSA worker Russ Faase talks about some of the items that TSA has seen come through the security check point at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (WKTV)
Needless to say, TSA officials and employees have seen a lot of interesting items that people have tried to bring on to the plane in their carry-on bags. Items have ranged from an electric hotplate to a dead squirrel.
“By far the most common thing we see by far is your oversized liquids, your 3.4 or greater size liquids, gels and aerosols,” said Mark Howell, regional spokesperson for TSA. “Those are OK in your check bag but if you want to take those on a aircraft, they need to be limited to 3.4 ounces or less in one quart size bag and each passenger is allowed one of those.”
Other items not allowed are kubaton pens, a self-defense keychain weapon, according to Ross Faase, a TSA worker at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Another item not allowed are replica weapons.
Replica weapons such as this toy grenade are not allowed on an airplane. (WKTV)
“This would be a great item to leave at home,” Fasse said. “Bringing a replica grenade like this through the check point could cause delays for you, your fellow travelers, and it could shutdown the check point until we are able to get the item resolved.”
Knives of any size need to be in checked luggage, Faase said. Scissors are allowed if the scissors are four inches or less from the pivot.
“As we get more into the summer, we are going to see a lot more bike tools,” Faase said. “Bike tools need to be seven inches or less. Any tools greater than seven inches must be packed in checked bags.”
With summer, there are a number of passengers who do not travel that often and therefore do not know what is allowed and not allowed, Howell said.
“People try to avoid the check bag fees by just taking a carry-on bag with them, but when you do that you have to know the difference of what’s allowed in a carry-on bag versus what’s allowed in a checked bag,” he said.
Howell said TSA does not confiscate items but will give passengers the option to get rid of things when they come to the check point.
“Unfortunately people wait until the last minute to come to the security check point and don’t want to go through security again, so they end up surrendering the item at the security check point,” he said.
TSA does have a no cost contract with the Michigan state surplus office which will either dispose of the item or resell it. All monies raised from the resell goes to that agency, Howell said.
So if you are planning a trip that involves heading to the airport, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get through the TSA check point. The recommended time is about 2 hours from departure. For more information about items that are allowed in carry-on bags and on the plane, visit the TSA website, tsa.gov.
April passenger numbers are up 13-percent and total traffic at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has soared to over a million passengers served this year.
Through April 2019, 1,164,409 passengers have traveled through the airport, and overall passenger traffic is up 11-percent from 2018 – the busiest year in GFIA history.
April 2019 saw 292,699 passengers compared to 259,106 in 2018. April 2019 also beats out April 2018 as the busiest April in airport history.
The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 69 of the last 76 months and 19 straight.
“People ask us repeatedly what is our key to success, and we credit our team’s tremendous efforts in safety, customer service, innovation and maintenance, mixed in with an outpouring of community support,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “We know passengers have choices when they fly, but more and more we are seeing our West Michigan community choose the Ford Airport. Our airline partners keep adding routes, frequencies, and capacity because they know our community is supporting the service.”
The Airport is underway on Phase Two of its Gateway Transformation Project which includes updates to the baggage claim area, airline ticket counters, flooring and lighting; along with new restrooms and concessions. Updates on construction at the airport can be found here:https://www.grr.org/construction.php
As passenger numbers continue to grow at GFIA, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more information to make security screening smoother are available atwww.tsa.gov.
The growth is expected to continue further into 2019 with more air service coming to the Ford Airport. Airline partner Allegiant has announced three new nonstop destinations in 2019 as well as the addition of a maintenance base. Nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) began on April 5. Nonstop service to Nashville (BNA), and Savannah-Hilton Head (SAV) will begin in June.
This winter season was unusually brutal with record low temperatures along with heavy snow and ice, and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is being recognized for outstanding efforts in battling the elements.
GFIA has been recognized as the 2018-2019 Balchen/Post Award Honorable Mention recipient for “Outstanding Achievement in Airport Snow & Ice Control.” The International Aviation Snow Symposium presents the annual award, which is given to three categories of commercial airports: Large, Medium and Small, for their dedicated efforts in maintaining airports in safe and operational status during the 2018-19 winter season.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport was awarded in the “Small” category which is classified by less than 100,000 scheduled operations (take-offs and landings) annually.
GFIA saw 81.3 inches of snow this season, dating from Fall 2018 to the present. In an average winter, GFIA removes 83,700.00 cubic feet of snow from the airfield – enough to fill 20,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
“This winter was challenging and demanding for our staff, but our communications, operations, and field maintenance teams worked collectively with our airline and FAA partners to ensure safe operations of our airfield,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “The Balchen/Post Award is a tremendous achievement for our staff, and I cannot say enough about our hard working crews who put in countless hours maintaining the snow and ice. We are very proud to be recognized as one of the best among our peers.”
Throughout the winter season, airport operations staff is responsible for monitoring and reporting airfield conditions as well as coordinating snow and ice control activities with airfield maintenance, air traffic control, communications, and aeronautical users of the airport. Airport field maintenance staff is responsible for physically clearing snow and ice from the airport’s 1.5 million square yards of pavement.
This is the 43rd consecutive year that the International Snow Symposium Awards have been presented. All categories of airports – commercial, general aviation, and military – compete for these awards.
The Spring Break travel season was a popular one at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) as March passenger numbers helped record the busiest month in Airport history. March numbers increased 14.42-percent compared to March 2018, and GFIA is up 10-percent overall this year.
March 2019 beat out March 2018 for the record of busiest month in Airport history with 341,534 passengers in 2019 versus 298,487 passengers in 2018. In addition, first quarter 2019 marks the busiest first quarter ever with 871,710 passengers served from January 1 through March 31.
The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 68 of the last 75 months and 18 straight.
“We had another fantastic Spring Break period, and West Michigan passengers are proving that they love utilizing their local, affordable, easy airport,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our airline partners continue to add larger aircraft, more frequency in flights, and more nonstop destinations. We have a lot of exciting things on tap for 2019, and it’s encouraging to see us off to such a great start.”
The Airport is underway on Phase Two of its Gateway Transformation Project which includes updates to the baggage claim area, airline ticket counters, flooring and lighting; along with new restrooms and concessions. Updates on construction at the airport can be found here:https://www.grr.org/construction.php
As passenger numbers continue to grow at GFIA, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more information to make security screening smoother are available atwww.tsa.gov.
The growth is expected to continue further into 2019 with more air service coming to the Ford Airport. Airline partner Allegiant has announced three new nonstop destinations in 2019 as well as the addition of a maintenance base. Nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) began on April 5. Nonstop service to Nashville (BNA), and Savannah-Hilton Head (SAV) will begin in June.
Allegiant(NASDAQ: ALGT) begins service today from Grand Rapids to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) beginning April 5, 2019. To celebrate, the company is offering fares on the new route as low as $55 each way*.
“We are excited to begin service to Sarasota/Bradenton from Grand Rapids,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant vice president of planning and revenue. “This beautiful destination offers fun for everyone in the family, and we’re sure that area travelers will enjoy getting away on these convenient, nonstop, ultra-low-cost flights.”
The new year-round flights will operate twice weekly. With the addition of this new route, Allegiant will now serve seven cities from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR). Beginning in June, the company will also operate an aircraft base at GRR. Also in June, Allegiant will add service to Nashville, Tennessee and Savannah, Georgia. Flight days, times and the lowest fares can be found only at Allegiant.com.
“We are thrilled to add a seventh Allegiant destination to our route map, and our ninth destination in Florida,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “We had a long winter, and starting service to Florida’s Gulf Coast is a great treat to kick us into spring. We are thankful that our partners at Allegiant recognize the growth opportunities in Grand Rapids and continue to invest their services in our market.”
Allegiant offers a unique option to Grand Rapids-area travelers with low base fares and savings on rental carsand hotels. Travelers can book their entire vacation with Allegiant for less.
*About the introductory fares:
Price displayed reflects purchase of a round-trip itinerary and includes taxes, carrier charges and government fees. Seats and dates are limited and fares are not available on all flights. Flights must be purchased by April 7, 2019 for travel by June 28, 2019. Price displayed reflects purchase of a round-trip itinerary and includes taxes, carrier charges & government fees. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Optional baggage charges and additional restrictions may apply. For more details, optional services and baggage fees, please visit Allegiant.com.
Allegiant®Las Vegas-based Allegiant (NASDAQ: ALGT) is focused on linking travelers to world-class leisure destinations. The airline offers industry-low fares on an all-jet fleet while also offering other travel-related products such as hotel rooms and rental cars. All can be purchased only through the company website, Allegiant.com. Beginning with one aircraft and one route in 1999, the company has grown to over 80 aircraft and more than 400 routes across the country with base airfares less than half the cost of the average domestic round-trip ticket. For downloadable press kit, including photos, visit: http://gofly.us/ToZT30iauev.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is coming off a 2018 year which saw a record 3.2 million passengers, and the Airport expects to see the high volume trend continue through its busiest time of the year – Spring Break.
Due to additional passenger volume beginning this month and continuing through April, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects longer security lines and urges passengers to arrive at the Airport at least two hours prior to departure time.
In order to expedite the security screening process, passengers should carefully consider the contents of their checked luggage and carry-on bags. The TSA recommends wearing shoes that are easy to remove, having identification and boarding passes ready to present at security checkpoints, removing all items from pockets, avoiding bedazzled and jeweled clothing, limiting heavy jewelry, and ending all cell phone conversations prior to screening. In addition, removing heavy food items such as cheese and fudge, along with granular and powdered items like sugar, from your carry-on bag, will also greatly speed up security screening.
“With a record-setting 2018 and over three million passengers served last year, we are busier than ever and that means it is crucial for our travelers to arrive early because our passenger numbers continue to grow,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our TSA screening will be staffed with more officers to accommodate the extra traffic, but passengers can do their part by simply arriving early to allow adequate time for screening and some fun as well.”
Passengers traveling through GFIA on select Spring Break travel dates will be treated to the annual Passenger Appreciation Days, compliments of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board. This bon-voyage celebration will take place from Thursday, March 28th through Saturday, March 30th each day from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the Airport’s Grand Hall Meet & Greet area. Passenger Appreciation Days events include free refreshments, food, giveaways, prize drawings, contests, and more!
“We are excited to bring back our Passenger Appreciation Days – a tradition at the Ford Airport for 17 years,” said GFIA Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. “This is one way we can thank our community for supporting our airport, and our passengers will have some fun before heading out on their vacations.”
For passengers wanting to partake in the Passenger Appreciation Days festivities, the Airport encourages them to allow even more travel time.
The TSA also encourages passengers to utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one- quart zip-top bag.
Additional 3-1-1 Information:
Deodorant: Stick deodorant is not limited to 3.4 ounces or less, but gel or spray deodorant is.
Suntan & Sun Block Lotion: Lotions fall under the 3-1-1 procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
Makeup: Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
Beverages: Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.
Questions about TSA procedures and upcoming travel can be addressed to the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673 or @AskTSA or Twitter.
Federal legislation, if passed, would increase safety and security for airport passengers and visitors outside of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened areas. (WKTV.K.D. Norris)
While the Polar Vortex locked down most of Michigan, it certainly did not stop the flights from entering and leaving the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Airport officials announced that the airport once again had record numbers for the month of January, proving what we all ready knew: that the staff is amazing when it comes to keeping the pathways clear and planes on time. For more, click here.
Life on the Farm
Sometimes the best stories are the stories about life. We are honored that Donna Troost was willing to share her story during a recent WKTV VOICES. Born in Wyoming, Troost had wanted to be a nurse. Discover how an engagement ring and two calves changed her life by clicking here.
Super Trouper
By day, she is the communications manager for the Kent County Road Commission. By night, she is a “dancing queen”… at least until March 17. That is because Maura Lamoreaux is in the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre production of “Mamma Mia!” which opens on Friday and runs through March 17. For more about this “super trouper,” click here.
Fun fact:
Bottoms Up!
That’s because it is National Margarita Day on Friday, Feb. 22 (hence our quote for today). Known to be the most common tequila-based cocktail to be served in the United States, there are several myths as to how the margarita came to be. It is known that a 1953 “Esquire” article included it as the drink of the month and in 1977, Jimmy Buffet’s song “Margaritaville” further popularized the drink. Speaking of Jimmy Buffet, his “Escape to Margaritaville” is part of the 2019-2020 line up for the Broadway Grand Rapids, with the season also including the outrageously popular “Hamilton.”
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) set an all-time passenger record for 2018, marking the sixth straight year that the Airport has seen record-setting growth.
In 2018, 3,263,234 passengers flew in and out of GFIA, an increase of 16-percent from 2017. The record-setting year was capped in December with an increase of 17-percent year-over-year. With 273,673 total passengers, it marked the busiest December ever. This was the first time the Airport served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of December.
“We had originally projected to hit the three million mark in 2020. To have that much growth in 2018 was a tremendous accomplishment,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Wecouldn’t have done it without our outstanding staff, our loyal passengers, and all of our airlinepartners and airport tenants.”
Additionally, the Airport has processed over 2.5 billion pounds of cargo since 1967. Cargo totals for 2018 hit 91 million pounds – a 3-percent increase over 2017.
Helping spur the passenger growth, the Ford Airport added six new routes in 2018. Frontier Airlines began nonstop service to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Denver International Airport (DEN), Phoenix-Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), and Tampa International Airport (TPA). American Airlines began new nonstop service to Miami International Airport (MIA) and Phoenix-Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently beginning construction on Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project – a remodel of the ticketing and baggage claim hall. The Apron Reconstruction Project, a $30 million project that will repair the terminal apron – the area where aircraft are parked, unloaded or loaded, and refueled, will resume in the Spring.
Allegiant announced they were adding an aircraft base in Grand Rapids which is set to begin operation in June. They have also added three new nonstop destinations to begin in 2019. Service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) will begin in April. Service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) will begin in June.
“We continue to grow our air service and facilities. On average, airports our size have nonstop service to 17 cities. We are now serving 29,” said Picardat. “We are increasing our capacity andworking to accommodate more routes for our passengers.”
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been running at normal times but staff recommends that people get to the airport at least 90 to 120 minutes before their flight takes off. (WKTV)
With reports of some TSA officers not coming in and potentially long wait times at local airports, area residents will be happy to know things are running smoothy at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
“The security wait times are running at normal times,” said Alicia Roberts, marketing coordinator for the Ford Airport. “We appreciate the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and CBP (U.S. Customers and Board Protection) staff continuing to work hard to keep things at the airport running smoothly.”
Roberts statement matches what the TSA website has stated. According to the site, TSA screened 1.89 million passengers on Jan. 14. The overall wait time for 99.1 percent of passengers was less than 30 minutes with 94.3 percent of the passengers waiting less than 15 minutes. For the TSA PreCheck lanes, the average wait was less than 10 minutes.
Wait times vary at each airpot. For example, Atlanta was reporting a max standard wait time of 88 minutes with a TSA PreCheck maximum wait time of 55 minutes. For Chicago’s O’Hare, the maximum waiting time was 16 minutes and the maximum wait time for TSA PreCheck was three minutes. At the Detroit airport, the maximum wait time was 19 minutes and the maximum wait time for the TSA PreCheck was four minutes.
Roberts said that it is always recommended that passengers come to the airport early to get checked in and through security. GFIA encourages passengers to arrive at least 90-120 minutes before their flight and check flight information at www.flyford.com.
To help with moving through security, passengers should utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one-quart zip-top bag. Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag.
Suntan & Sun Block Lotion:Lotions fall under the 3-1-1procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
Makeup:Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
Beverages:Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.
Due to safety concerns, the FAA yesterday recalled thousands of furloughed inspectors and engineers back to work. It happened after unions representing aviation safety inspectors and air traffic controllers raised concerns that the shutdown was eroding the safety of the nation’s air travel.
All FFA TSA and CBP employees are working without pay during the government shutdown.
CNN recently compiled a list of impacts from the government shutdown. Click here to read more.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) finished the month of November having served an all-time record number of passengers. November 2018 saw an 18-percent growth year-over-year, putting the Ford Airport just shy of 3 million passengers served for 2018. (The airport would hit three million passengers served in December.)
November marks the eleventh record-breaking month in a row, and the airport has seen growth in 64 of the last 71 months. November 2018 was the busiest November ever, and at this point in the year GFIA has surpassed its annual total reached in every other year including 2017’s record setting 2.8 million passengers.
November 2018 had 272,438 passengers come through the Ford Airport, up from 230,946 in 2017. GFIA is up 16-percent in annual passenger totals.
“We have already surpassed last year’s record numbers with one of our busiest months still to go,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “We are thankful for the support we receive from the West Michigan community. We continue to work to add more air service by working with our airline partners to add destinations that West Michigan travelers want to visit. As we continue to grow, we look forward to more big things in 2019.”
American Airlines began new nonstop service to Miami International Airport (MIA) and Phoenix- Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) earlier this week. Allegiant announced nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) in November which will begin in April 2019.
"May your walls know joy, may every room hold laughter, and every window open to great possibility." - Author Mary Anne Radmacher
Kentwood resident Cecilia Nguyen (far left holding the nutcracker) stars as Clara in the Grand Rapids Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker.”
Tiny Dancer
There is still time to catch Kentwood resident Cecilia Nguyen in the role of Clara at the Grand Rapids Ballet’s presentation of “The Nutcracker.” The show runs through Sunday, Dec. 23 at the DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. The production features the world-famous design of Chris Van Allsburg (“The Polar Express,” “Jumanji,”) Broadway-quality sets by Tony Award winner Eugene Lee (“Wicked,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Saturday Night Live”), festive choreography by Val Caniparoli, and live music from the Grand Rapids Symphony. For tickets, visit grballet.com.
The Santa’s Rocket Express is now on display at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Holiday Memories
Remember those days of yore when you and your family visited the Herpolsheimer and rode the Santa’s Rocket Express? The Grand Rapids Public Museum has the train on display for the holidays. Speaking of the Public Museum, the organization will be hosting its Snowflake Break activities again this year centered around two exhibits: “Expedition: Dinosaur” and “TOYS!” Or take a trip down memory lane to the mall, where many people will be this weekend, as WKTV takes a look at how malls in America not only changed shopping habits, but holiday traditions as well.
The Ford Airport has a few tips for those flying home, or just traveling, over the holidays.
According to Stafford University, Americans throw away about 25 percent more extra trash during the holidays with the extra trash being about 25 million tons of garbage. Want to help reduce that? The Kent County Department of Public Works has a few suggestions.
Alicia Roberts Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is preparing for a busy holiday travel season and is offering these helpful travel reminders.
Due to increased passenger traffic, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. Also, due to current airport construction, along with the busy holiday traffic, lines could be longer than normal. GFIA encourages passengers to arrive at least 90-120 minutes before their flight and check flight information at www.flyford.com.
In order to expedite the security screening process, passengers should carefully consider the contents of their checked luggage and carry-on bags. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends wearing shoes that are easy to remove, having identification and boarding passes ready to present at security checkpoints, removing all items from pockets, avoiding bedazzled and jeweled clothing, limiting heavy jewelry, and ending all cell phone conversations prior to screening. In addition, remove any personal electronics larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bags.
If passengers are traveling with gifts, do not wrap them with wrapping paper or tape. TSA recommends putting gifts in gift bags or gift boxes instead. Snow globes can be a popular gift during the holidays but they must contain 3.4 liquid ounces or less to comply with the 3-1-1 liquids bag rule. Larger snow globes should be packed in checked baggage or shipped to your destination.
Traveling with food items is okay during the holidays. Removing heavy food items such as cheese and fudge, along with granular and powdered items like sugar, from your carry-on bag, will also greatly speed up security screening. If the food item is a solid (i.e.: ham, turkey, cake, cookies), then it can be packed in a carry-on bag. If the food item is spreadable or pourable, then it must be 3.4 liquid ounces or less to comply with the 3-1-1 liquids bag rule to travel in a carry-on bag. If it is more than 3.4 liquid ounces, it must be packed in a checked bag.
“We are looking forward to another holiday season, which is a busy time of the year. Because of that, it is important for those traveling – especially if you haven’t flown recently – to review TSA’s website,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our TSA staff does a wonderful job, and the more prepared travelers are, the smoother the screening experience will be for everyone.”
The TSA encourages passengers to utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one-quart zip-top bag. Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag.
Suntan & Sun Block Lotion:Lotions fall under the 3-1-1procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
Makeup:Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
Beverages:Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.
Questions about TSA procedures and upcoming travel can be addressed to the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673 or @AskTSA on Twitter.
Sue Diehl had no idea when she stepped off her flight at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) that she would be walking into cheers, applause, gifts, and surprises as the Ford Airport’s three millionth passenger.
“This is crazy, thank you, thank you!” said Diehl. “I was thinking I was in a dream because I did take a little nap on the plane and I woke up and I see balloons and all of this.”
The Airport had a total of over 2.7 million passengers served through the end of October. November and December seat totals and flight information forecasted the three millionth passenger to arrive around 11 a.m. on December 5th, and Diehl was the lucky passenger having arrived to Grand Rapids on Delta flight 1367 from Atlanta at 11:11 a.m.
GFIA has now had six straight years of record growth, having grown from 2.2 million in 2013, to 2.8 million in 2017, and now serving its three millionth passenger in 2018.
“What a way to welcome in our three millionth passenger with all kinds of free stuff, travel vouchers, and just the thrill of being greeted by hundreds of our staff and tenants cheering and celebrating Sue Diehl as our three millionth passenger,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “Sue was emotional, happy, and appreciative, and I know she will remember this for years to come. For all of those that have traveled with us we celebrate this milestone with you, and we thank you for your patronage and support – not just this year but through the last 54-plus years of service to our community.”
As the three millionth passenger, Diehl received three $300 travel vouchers and three free days of parking from the Airport Authority, a gift basket of travel accessories from Hudson News & Gifts valued over $300, a Beer City Welcome Basket from Experience Grand Rapids, a Founders Brewing Company gift pack, three $30 Starbucks gift cards, and more.
When told what her prize package included, Diehl was emotional. “No way, no way,” she said through tears. “Nothing like this ever happens to me.”
"It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not."
Andre Gide
Oh, boy. No. 3,000,000
is in for a big surprise
This woman is not the 3,000,000th passenger
If you’re the 3,000,000th passenger on Dec. 5th, you’ll be feted with a surprise. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport had a total of over 2.7 million passengers served through the end of October. November and December seat totals and flight information are forecasting the three millionth passenger to arrive around 11am on Dec. 5.
There will also be a reception to include surprises and giveaways for passengers flying that day. More here.
Proof that science really exists!
This launch could not happen without science
Tuesday, Dec. 4, WKTV will be featuring the launch of the SpaceX CRS-16 Cargo Craft to the International Space Station. SpaceX CRS-16 will be filled with supplies and payloads including critical materials to directly support the science and research that will occur during the current expeditions.
Coverage continues on Thursday, Dec. 6, for the rendezvous and capture of the SpaceX CRS-16 at the ISS at 4:30am, with the capture scheduled for approximately 6am Installation of the cargo craft begins at 7:30am. Go here for more info.
You say “tomayto”, I say “tomahto”
Gleaves Whitney will tackle a thorny topic
We all have our differences. But the 2016 election of Donald Trump, Kavanaugh hearings, and 2018 midterm elections have stirred up deep emotions about what kind of nation America is and should be. Conservative and progressive debates over the meaning of these events have opened old wounds and created new injuries in our body politic.
On Wednesday, Dec. 5, Gleaves Whitney, director of the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University, will address the divide in the country, and explain why failure to resolve our most difficult challenges is not an option. Go here for more info.
Fun Fact:
The footprints on the moon will
be there for 100 million years
The Moon has no atmosphere, which means there is no wind to erode the surface and no water to wash the footprints away. This means the footprints of the Apollo astronauts, along with spacecraft prints, rover-prints and discarded material, will be there for millions of years.
Wednesday, Dec. 5, with a reception to also include surprises and giveaways for passengers flying that day.
The Airport had a total of over 2.7 million passengers served through the end of October. November and December seat totals and flight information are forecasting the three millionth passenger to arrive around 11 a.m. on Dec. 5.
“Our three millionth passenger has no idea they will be greeted upon arrival at our airport with balloons, gifts, and some really fantastic giveaways,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “To hit three million passengers is a first for our airport and we really want to go above and beyond to celebrate it with one lucky passenger, but also for all of those traveling through our airport that day.”
The three millionth passenger will be receiving three $300 travel vouchers and three free days of parking from the Airport Authority, a gift basket of travel accessories from Hudson News & Gifts valued over $300, a Beer City Welcome Basket from Experience Grand Rapids, and much more.
Airport staff will also be passing out cookies, candy, giveaways, and registering people to win three $300 flight vouchers from 9a.m. – 2p.m. that day.
"Sing, sing a song,
Make it simple to last your whole life long
Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear,
Just sing, sing a song..."
- "Sing" by Joe Raposo, written for "Sesame Street" in 1971
The airport is alive with music
Several Wyoming and Kentwood high school choirs will be performing at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s Holiday Music Festival, which is Dec. 3 – 7. Some of the groups scheduled are Potters House, Legacy Christian, South Christian, Wyoming High School, Lee High School, and East Kentwood High School. Performances are daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. andJe are free.
And the winner is…
Jennifer Lewis and Brian Jirous were declared the newest members of the Wyoming Board of Education this week. Both ran in the Nov. 6 election. Jirous was the only candidate who filed for one of the two open seats on the board. Lewis was one of two write-in candidates. It took a couple of weeks for the write-ins to be hand counted, according to school officials. The two will be sworn in at the Wyoming Board of Education meeting set for Jan. 14 at 6 p.m.
Santa is coming to town
While it is still a week yet until Kentwood hosts its annual tree lighting and parade, set for Dec. 7, and the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Santa Parade, Dec. 8, you can get your celebrating started at Byron Center’s community festivities this Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade portion has been cancelled due to the weather but the chili dinner and holiday concert at Pathway Church, 8350 Byron Center Ave. SW, is still taking place.
Fun Fact:
Light It Up
Ever wonder how many lights you can fit on a Christmas tree? Well a group in Belgium did, managing to get 194,672 lights on a real tree on Dec. 10, 2010. Seven years later, Universal Studios Japan was not about to be out done, so they managed to place 570,546 lights on an artificial tree. You have to admit, that is a lot of lights. (Source)
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) will soon be filled with festive sounds of the season. The 24th Annual Holiday Music Festival will take place the week of Dec. 3-7 in the Grand Hall. Daily performances run from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Some of the groups scheduled to perform are Potters House at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3; Legacy Christian 7th and 8th Grade Choir at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5; Wyoming High Concert Choir at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 6; East Kentwood Varsity Voices at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6; South Christian High School Madrigals at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec.6; and Lee High School Varsity of Voices at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 7. A full schedule is available on the Airport’s Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/FlyGRFord.
A total of 18 West Michigan schools are scheduled to sing a variety of carols during the Festival. Local choirs representing public and private schools will sing 20 minute song sets throughout the day.
“We love having the schools here during the Holiday Music Festival. The music helps to put passengers and guests in the holiday spirit around the airport,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “We hope to put smiles on passengers’ faces as they listen to the carolers.”
All Festival performances are free and open to the public.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) now sits less than 300,000 passengers away from setting another all-time annual record for passengers served. October 2018 saw 16-percent growth year-over-year, putting the Ford Airport at over 2.7 million passengers served in 2018 with two months left.
October marks the tenth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 63 of the last 70 months. October 2018 was the busiest October ever, and at this point in the year GFIA has surpassed its annual totals reached in every year except 2017.
October 2018 had 284,710 passengers come through the Ford Airport, up from 245,319 in 2017. GFIA is up 15.7-percent in annual passenger totals.
“We still have two months left in the year and these are big months for us with November and December holiday travel mixed in. We know we will hit our three million passenger mark and then some,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “We continue to work on adding more air service, working with our airline partners to serve the destinations West Michigan travelers want to visit. Our work isn’t done and we only expect more big things in 2019.”
Allegiant recently announced nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) which will begin in April 2019, and American Airlines kicks off new nonstop service to Miami (MIA) and Phoenix Sky- Harbor (PHX) beginning in December 2018. Frontier also started Phoenix (PHX) and Tampa (TPA) this month.
“We are proud to have airlines investing in the Ford Airport and recognizing the growth of our West Michigan community,” said GFIA Board Chairman Dan Koorndyk. “We are thrilled to be on the edge of three million passengers, and we’re looking forward to celebrating that milestone.”
GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.
Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project began in November 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, curbside, and ‘front of house’ area. For more information on construction updates and upgrades, please visit: http://www.flyford.org/construction.php
GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: http://www.grr.org/
A welcome home for West Michigan troops and other festivities are on tap for the Thanksgiving holiday, and one of the busiest days of the year at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).
On Wednesday, Nov. 21, airport volunteers including therapy dog teams, and the Patriot Guard Riders will participate in “Operation Handshake,” an event to welcome home returning military members and veterans, and to thank them for their service.
Volunteers will staff both airport concourses from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
“We are so appreciative of our military members’ service to our country and we know that not everyone can make it home during the holidays because they are making other sacrifices. For those returning to West Michigan we want to make it extra special and let them know we are thankful for their service,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “The Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan do a tremendous job taking time out of their holiday week to welcome home our military, and we appreciate their loyalty to serving our community through events like Operation Handshake.”
The event is free and open to the public. The media is also encouraged to put a call out to the community, asking family members to notify the Patriot Guard Riders of returning military members’ arrival times and flight information. Information can be sent to Tony VanGessel at 616-862-1984 or tvange58@yahoo.com.
“This is what Thanksgiving is really all about,” said VanGessel, Captain of the Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan. “What we see each year is an inspiration. We get a thank you from the military members, but it’s also heartwarming for the general traveling public around us to see what transpires.”
The Airport is currently under construction on its Gateway Transformation Project, and along with the busy holiday traffic, lines could be longer than normal. The Airport encourages passengers to arrive at least 90-120 minutes before their flight.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expecting a record breaking number of flyers this upcoming Thanksgiving holiday travel period with more than 25 million passengers traveling through security screening checkpoints around the U.S. from Nov. 16 through Nov. 26 – an increase of five-percent from 2017.
“As Thanksgiving and the holiday travel seasons arrive, ensuring the safety and security of the millions of passengers traveling daily remains TSA’s top priority,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “We marked several records over the spring and summer travel periods this year, screening more than 525 million passengers and crew. This upcoming season will be very busy as more passengers choose to fly, and TSA officers will be on duty over the holidays so travelers can enjoy theirs.”
TSA also encourages passengers to stay up-to-date on the latest travel notices and information about what you can or cannot bring on your flight by visiting: www.tsa.gov. Additionally, travelers should keep these top three tips in mind:
Pack smart. Prepare for security when packing and ensure that there are no prohibited items in baggage. As always, passengers can bring pies, cakes and other baked goods through the checkpoints; however, liquids such as eggnog and maple syrup, and gels such as preserves and jellies, should go into checked bags. Liquids in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Download the MyTSA app or use the “What can I bring?” tool on tsa.gov. This allows you to type in an item to find out if you can bring it in your carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither.
Renew your TSA PreCheck membership. Individuals who obtained TSA PreCheck five years ago are now able to renew their TSA PreCheck membership online. Individuals who do not have TSA PreCheck should enroll now to get TSA PreCheck benefits, available at more than 200 U.S. airports, in time for their holiday travel. Travelers enrolled in a trusted traveler program, like TSA PreCheck, do not need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets. To find the trusted traveler program that best suits your travel needs, use the DHS trusted traveler comparison tool.
Ask for passenger support. Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities and/or medical conditions may call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours prior to flying with any questions about screening policies, procedures and to find out what to expect at the security checkpoint. TSA Cares also arranges assistance at the checkpoint.
Allegiant (NASDAQ: ALGT) today announces service from Grand Rapids to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) beginning April 5, 2019. To celebrate, the company is offering one-way fares on the new route as low as $55.*
“We’re thrilled to grow again in Grand Rapids,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant vice president of planning and revenue. “We’re sure that area travelers will enjoy getting away to beautifulSarasota on these convenient, nonstop, ultra-low-cost flights.”
The new year-round flights will operate twice weekly. With the addition of this new route, Allegiant will now serve seven cities from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR). Flight days, times and the lowest fares can be found only at Allegiant.com.
“We are thrilled to add a seventh Allegiant destination to our route map. There is no greater way to please West Michigan travelers than to announce service to Florida’s Gulf Coast right as our winter season is gearing up,” said Tara Hernandez, marketing and communications director at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. “We are thankful that our partners at Allegiant recognize thegrowth opportunities in Grand Rapids and continue to invest their services in our market.”
“We have had a record-breaking year, and with Allegiant adding another nonstop flight to our 2019 schedule, we’re going to continue record numbers into next year,” said Dan Koorndyk, GFIABoard Chair. “We’re proud to have had Allegiant here since 2009, and we love to see the airline’s continue growth.”
Allegiant offers a unique option to Grand Rapids-area travelers with low base fares and savings on rental cars and hotels. Travelers can book their entire vacation with Allegiant for less.
*About the introductory one-way fares:
Seats and dates are limited and fares are not available on all flights. Flights must be purchased by Nov. 14, 2018 for travel by Aug. 13, 2019. Price displayed reflects purchase of a round-trip itinerary and includes taxes, carrier charges & government fees. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Optional baggage charges and additional restrictions may apply. For more details, optional services and baggage fees, please visit Allegiant.com.
A rendering of the future west ticketing area at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Renovations begin November 2018 and will continue through Summer 2020.
Construction on the second phase of the Gateway Transformation Project begins today at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA), and will continue through Summer 2020.
Construction improvements are focused on the airline ticket counters and baggage service offices, baggage claim, curbside, and ‘front of house’ areas. The main features will include relocating TSA screening equipment from the airline queuing areas, upgrading the space around the baggage claim carousels, and adding food and beverage establishments and restrooms to the space near baggage claim.
Remodeling will include new terrazzo flooring, new LED lighting fixtures, upgraded signage, and more.
Phase I of the Gateway Transformation Project started in December 2015, and wrapped up in September 2017. The first phase included a consolidated security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening, along with new retail and concession space, restrooms and nursing rooms, business centers, and more.
“The comments we have received regarding Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project have been overwhelmingly supportive and have generated excitement for what’s to come in Phase Two,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We look forward to completing the next round of construction to make our entire airport reflective of the scenery and beauty of West Michigan as we continue to be the gateway to our region.”
Because some of the construction will have an impact on passenger operations both in the terminal building and those picking up and dropping off passengers at the curb front, we encourage visitors to prepare ahead of time by arriving at least 90 minutes before their scheduled flight, and by visiting: http://www.grr.org/construction.php. Updates on the progress of the construction, photos, and other helpful tips are listed here. Additionally, signage, maps, and airport ambassadors are available in the terminal building to assist with any passenger needs or directions.
The second phase construction and design is expected to cost $18 million and generate over 40 full-time jobs.
A rendering of the future bag claim area at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Renovations begin November 2018 and will continue through Summer 2020.
The new Cell Phone & Ride Share Lot at the Gerald R. Ford International Airpot.
With an eye towards helping to reduce congestion at its terminal building, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has opened a new parking area for those waiting to pick up passengers.
The Cell Phone & Ride Share Lot includes 30 spaces for individuals waiting for passenger arrivals, along with 30 spaces to accommodate staging for ride share providers.
The new lot is located off Patterson Avenue as you enter the airport headed north, making an immediate right on Van Laar Drive, and another immediate right on Pederson Court. Directional signage is in place to guide new visitors to the area.
“This expanded area will give those customers looking to enter and exit quickly, an opportunity to park in this new lot for a short time period while waiting for their arriving guest to call them,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “In addition, we are excited to finish a partnership with our rideshare partners to work together to solidify that added service at our airport.”
The new Cell Phone and Ride Share lot is located in the lower left corner of the map.
The Ford Airport board approved the construction project in April. Increased passenger and construction traffic prompted the relocation and construction of the new lot.
“We are excited to open this new, expanded space for our growing passenger base,” said GFIA Board Chairman Dan Koorndyk. “At the Ford Airport we are all about making things easier for our passengers so when it comes to giving them more transportation options, we are happy to make that happen.”
Other renovations in the area include new LED lighting to improve safety, and updated signage. The lot is free with a limit of 30 minutes which will be enforced.
More than 1,000 runners and walkers braved the rain and laced up their sneakers for a behind-the-scenes 5K on one of the runways at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).
The Runway 5K, in its second year at GFIA, is unique as it gives runners and walkers a chance to run with planes in the background and along the route. The race began near the cargo facilities, continuing under the Airport’s tunnel, looping around by the airport fire station, and wrapped around on Runway 8L/26R – GFIA’s general aviation runway. The Airport’s two other commercial aviation runways were operational, giving participants a chance to soak in an up-close-and- personal sight.
“This was a tremendous opportunity for runners, walkers, and families who wanted to experience a fun event on one of our runways that is normally only being used for aircraft,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “It was exciting to see West Michigan come out and brave the elements to experience our facility like never before, plus support a wonderful charity at the same time.”
GFIA selected Make-A-Wish Michigan as its charity of choice to donate the race proceeds. Last year, the Runway 5K raised $10,000 for Make-A-Wish Michigan. This year, event organizers expect to top that number.
“We’re delighted that the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is once again hosting the Runway 5K to benefit Make-A-Wish Michigan,” said Karen Davis, president & CEO of Make-A-Wish Michigan. “We are so grateful for their support and the special care they extend to our wish kids and families. It’s through the generous support of our Michigan community, like our friends at GFIA, that we are able to grant transformational wishes to Michigan children battling critical illnesses.
“Make-A-Wish Michigan does tremendous work in our community, and we are thrilled to be able to donate proceeds from our Runway 5K to this organization,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We see Make-A-Wish kids in our airport on a regular basis, and although we wish that was less frequent; we are happy to help grant more wishes in West Michigan through this donation.”
After serving more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of July, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) topped that with an August that served close to 300,000 passengers.
August marks the eighth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 61 of the last 68 months. August 2018 was the busiest August ever, with passenger numbers up 17.8-percent year-over-year.
Through August 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual total reached in 2012, with 2,176,525 passengers served in 2018.
“To know we are continuing to break records of years past sets us at an amazing pace to finish out the rest of 2018, and we expect to hit our three million passenger mark,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are thankful to have a supportive West Michigan community that is not only flying in and out of the Ford Airport, but that seem to be telling their friends near and far what an easy, efficient, and customer-focused airport we have.”
August 2017 saw 247,986 passengers, while August 2018 topped that in serving 292,135 – the first time GFIA has served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of August.
Airline Weekly forecasted the Ford Airport as the second fastest-growing airport in the U.S. among the 100 busiest airports for the Q3 summer peak, according to data from Diio, an aviation data, tools, and technology product. The ranking was based upon a projected 21-percent increase in year-over-year growth.
“Our airline partners continue to invest here and are adding more service with more routes, and larger aircraft to accommodate our growing passenger traffic,” said Gill. “We expect the record numbers and trends to continue as we wrap up summer and continue into fall.”
GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.
Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.
“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) today announced results of its drinking water/well testing of 28 private residences as showing non-detect levels for the presence of PFOA and PFOS, the polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compounds for which the State of Michigan has established criteria.
Property owners have been informed of the non-detect results, and the Airport has also shared results with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), the Kent County Health Department (KCHD), and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
The non-detect levels are established by State of Michigan cleanup criteria for groundwater, as protection for drinking water. The State of Michigan’s criteria for groundwater applies to two particular compounds, PFOA and PFOS, and is set at 70 parts per trillion (ppt) combined (https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse).
Of the 44 property owners contacted for drinking water/well testing, 28 participated, with all 28 of the wells tested showing non-detect levels for PFOA, PFOS, and 10 other compounds. (see attached results table). One property showed low detectable presences for two PFAS compounds, PFHxA (5.45 ppt) and PFBS (6.43 ppt); but these compounds are not part of the State of Michigan cleanup criteria for groundwater, and MDHHS officials (in concurrence with MDEQ and KCHD) have confirmed that these low-level results do not pose any health concerns.
Based on these findings, the Airport will now focus on continuing its multi-step evaluation process, including completion of its property site analysis and related report to the MDEQ.
“We applaud the Airport’s efforts in going above and beyond the requirements to conduct off-site residential testing, and based on the data and related results, we concur there is no need to continue additional residential testing at this time,” explained Adam London, RS, MPA, Administrative Health Officer, KCHD.
The non-detect private drinking water/well testing results follow GFIA’s June 15, 2018 news that the Airport groundwater results for the presence of PFAS on airport property fall below the State of Michigan PFAS health advisory level and cleanup criteria.
Although the Airport’s groundwater results were below health advisory levels, the Airport went beyond regulatory requirements by conducting off-site groundwater testing of private drinking water wells in the area that is located northeast of the Airport’s property – the direction of groundwater flow indicated by GFIA’s investigation.
“We pride ourselves on being good neighbors and doing what is in the community’s best interest,” said Jim Gill, A.A.E., IAP, Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO. “We appreciate all of the cooperation and support of the dozens of private property owners we have worked with in this additional testing phase. We also appreciate the continued partnership with the MDEQ, MDHHS, and KCHD in keeping residents informed and working with us in our testing process.”
“Learning about PFAS and its impacts has become an evolving national conversation, taking place at airports, military bases and other facilities across the country,” said Gill. “Our commitment to environmental stewardship and our community has always been part of the Airport’s foundation and that commitment continues to guide our work moving forward.”
Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill, SpartanNash VP of Supply Chain Operations Lach McKinnon, and Mike Holmes of Rolling Thunder stand next to a new POW-MIA Chair of Honor outside of the Airport’s Military Welcome Center.
By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
The Military Welcome Center presented by SpartanNash at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) now has a special area, dedicated to the men and women who never made it home.
Rolling Thunder Michigan Chapter Four donated the POW-MIA Chair of Honor at a ceremony today at the airport. Members of Rolling Thunder, SpartanNash, and GFIA board members and staff joined in the dedication.
The Chair of Honor is to remain perpetually empty to help people remember that even though the military members are not here, there is always a space for them. POW-MIA Chairs of Honor can be found in public spaces ranging from professional sports stadiums to city halls, and now – the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Military Welcome Center presented by SpartanNash.
“The Rolling Thunder Chair of Honor program is intended to support our mission that ‘No Veteran shall be left behind or forgotten’ should they become a Prisoner Of War or Missing In Action,” said Mike Holmes, President of Rolling Thunder Michigan, Chapter Four.
National POW-MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday in September as a tribute to U.S. military members who were prisoners of war, those who are still missing in action, and their families.
“SpartanNash’s vision is to be a best-in-class business that feels local, where relationships matter, and, as a Military Friendly® Employer, one of our most important relationships is with our servicemembers, veterans and their families,” said Meredith Gremel, SpartanNash vice president of corporate affairs and communications. “We are honored to include this POW-MIA Chair of Honor in the Military Welcome Center as a solemn reminder of those who are not here with us.”
The Military Welcome Center, presented by SpartanNash, was officially opened to servicemembers, veterans, and their families in November 2017. The center offers refreshments, snacks, charging stations, an airport arrival/departure monitors, and lounging spaces. Additionally, there is an interactive map where military personnel and veterans can pinpoint where they have been stationed or deployed, and veteran profiles and programming offered by WGVU and PBS.
“We are proud to have a space in our airport dedicated to those that sacrificed so much for our country and our freedoms,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We appreciate the partnership with SpartanNash in providing this space for our military, veterans, and their families; and we are honored that Rolling Thunder Michigan Chapter Four chose the airport to dedicate the POW-MIA Chair of Honor.”
ArtPrize 10 is here which means for the next two and half weeks much of the community will be focused on and discussing art.
WKTV will be joining the conversation with WKTV VOICES. Introduced at ArtPrize Nine last year, VOICES is housed in a 1958 Airstream trailer and collects stories. Last year, it focused on collecting the stories of artists. This year, the trailer will again return to the corner of Lyon and Monroe, across from the Amway Grand Plaza, collecting stories of artists but also hosting a Voters Feedback Booth, where voters are encouraged to share what they voted on and why.
And what should participants expect to see at this year’s ArtPrize? Well, a few of the venues reached out to us with information about who will be at their venue.
“1934,” by Amiri Farris
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
5500 44th St. SE
Visitors and passengers coming through the airport will be see 14 exhibits on display at the
Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Art at the airport is on display upstairs along the mezzanine, in the indoors observation deck area, and in the east end of the terminal building near the valet ticket counter and exit to rental cars.
“We are thrilled to once again serve as a gathering place for ArtPrize –as a venue, a sponsor, and as a way to welcome artists and visitors into our great city,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “The Ford Airport strives to be reflective of the people and events in West Michigan, and we have a chance to brighten up our space with local and national artwork that showcases many different types of art. We hope people take advantage of the art on display here and visit us during the competition whether as a traveler or just a general visitor.”
Among the feature pieces is “1934,” by Amiri Farris, a portrait of a young President Gerald R. Ford and teammate Willis Ward. This large size painting depicts how President Ford overcame mounting adversity and racial discrimination to hep a friend. Artist Tom Howing, who is battling cancer, worked with his autistic son, Matthew, to put his views of the world into a 3-D format display titled “Matthew’s View.” Also artist Elizabeth Paul Healey fled her home in North Carolina this past weekend as Hurricane Florence approached and is here with her piece “Fear Less.”
Petra Kuppers, Salamander by The Olimpias. (Courtesy of the artist)
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will host 16 contemporary sculptors in an innovative exhibition jointly organized by DisArt, a Grand Rapids based arts and cultural organization promoting the full participation of disabled people in and through the arts. The exhibition is titled “Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture”.
Through examples of three-dimensional practice including sculpture, performance, installation and video art, this exhibition emphasizes the relationship between disability and the fundamental human experiences of change and embodiment. The exhibition offers audiences a survey of contemporary disability sculpture through artists whose work represents local, national and global perspectives on the experiences of living with disability.
“Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture” will be free of charge during ArtPrize (Sept. 19 – Oct. 7). The exhibition areas will be open to the public during Meijer Gardens’ regular business hours. All other areas of Meijer Gardens observe regular hours and standard admission fees.
Arizona-based artist duo Lauren Strohacker and Kendra Sollars shed light on the displacement, reintroduction, and loss of wildlife in urban areas, and have collaborated with Blandford Nature Center to create their time-based entry, Animal Land.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
101 Monroe Center St. NW
The Grand Rapids Art Museum’s ArtPrize 10 exhibition will showcase a broad range of contemporary art by local, regional, national and international artists—competing in every ArtPrize category: 2D, 3D, Time-based and Installation. The total number of artists/artist pairs is 10. The exhibition includes outdoor installations and large-scale nighttime projections on the building’s exterior, and also contains sculpture, painting and interactive performance works.
“Visitors to ArtPrize 10 at GRAM will find the Grand Rapids Art Museum’s most ambitious presentation yet—dazzling installations adapted to interior and exterior public spaces, technology-based interactive experiences, monumental sculpture and more,” commented GRAM Director and CEO Dana Friis-Hansen.
Several themes can be found within the artwork on view—Venezuelan artist, Saskia Jordá, uses her work as a call to action to end violence and hunger. Michigan-based artist John Gutsokey addresses loss, grief, and the aftermath of hate crimes, as well as gun violence, homophobia, violence against people of color and the transgender community, and LGBTQ rights. Arizona-based artist duo Lauren Strohacker and Kendra Sollars shed light on the displacement, reintroduction, and loss of wildlife in urban areas, and have collaborated with Blandford Nature Center to create their time-based entry, Animal Land.
“Geode” by Carlson Garcia
Grand Rapids Public Museum
272 Pearl St. NW
The Grand Rapids Public Museum will once again host an outdoor exhibition in which the work of 17 artists will visually lend itself to the setting of the Museum grounds. Each year the GRPM curates a rewarding experience with approachable art that is intriguing, distinctive and engages the viewer’s capacity for awe and curiosity. Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids along the busy river walkway, the GRPM is able to offer a not-to-be-missed immersive, 24-hour experience.
During ArtPrize Ten the GRPM will be open with regular Museum hours and half off general admission fees. The GRPM will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays of ArtPrize. For more information about artists, exhibitions, special programming and tickets visit grpm.org.
"If you can't tolerate critics, don't do anything new or interesting."
~Jeff Bezos
Food, glorious food!
Blue Spoon will again be at Kentwood’s End of Summer Food Truck Festival. (WKTV)
And there will be food trucks galore! The free-to-attend event will run from 11am to 10pm, on Saturday, Sept. 15 in the parking lot of the Kent District Library — Kentwood (Richard. L. Root) Branch. Throughout the day, there will be live music, a beer tent and a variety of local eats.
Ferrand Park got quite the facelift, and Wyoming residents are thrilled. The park features a number of new amenities such as a shelter, pathways into the park, architectural features that help to identify the park, and a new, expanded playground area.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport has launched a new app that features real-time flight departure and arrival information, updates on parking availability at the airport, and security wait times. Additionally, amenities such as food and beverage locations, kids play areas, nursing rooms, and the military welcome center are featured on the app.
(L-R) Gordon Oosting from Mel Trotter Ministries joins Airport Board Members Floyd Wilson, Jr., Dan Koorndyk, GFIAA CEO Jim Gill, Airport Board Members Roger Morgan and Birgit Klohs, and Lake Michigan Credit Union’s Don Bratt in donating coins for the ‘For GRReat Change’ program. (Photo supplied)
Loose change in your pockets now has a home, thanks to new donation coin containers at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA). The coin containers are in place at both the standard screening line and the TSA Pre-Check line, and airport board members were among the first to drop in coins this morning as a part of the airport’s new program, “For GRReat Change”.
GFIA installed the new coin containers in an effort to support a local West Michigan charity, while at the same time expediting the security screening process. All donations will go to Mel Trotter Ministries with donations being matched by Lake Michigan Credit Union.
“We know many travelers come to the security checkpoint with change in their pockets. Normally, they would empty their pockets and place it in a bowl before going through security, but now they can drop it before they go through security and donate to a good cause,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “This not only expedites the security lines because it is one less item to screen, but it goes toward helping to end homelessness in West Michigan. We are proud to partner with Mel Trotter Ministries and Lake Michigan Credit Union to give back to our community.”
GFIA is unveiling the new containers before a busy fall schedule for the airport when seasonal flights gear up, which is also a crucial time for Mel Trotter Ministries prior to the holidays.
“We are always exploring unique ways to partner with individuals and organizations in West Michigan and this coin container project is another example of how together we can make a greater impact,” said Abbey Sladick, VP of Communication at Mel Trotter Ministries.
“We are grateful to the generous passengers, to the airport and to LMCU for their commitment to solving a serious community issue that affects thousands of our neighbors every year.”
“Lake Michigan Credit Union is thrilled to be a part of this creative way to make a difference benefitting Mel Trotter Ministries at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Lake Michigan Credit Union SVP of Marketing Don Bratt. “We are excited to double the impact that passengers can make through the donation of their change.”
