The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRFIA) has finished making improvements to better customer experience. Enhancements include a transformed ticketing experience, expanded passenger processing capabilities and a more advanced checked baggage handling system.  

The updates were funded through the Terminal Enhancement Project, which the airport broke ground on in 2024. The project provided $135 million in funding to expand the terminal's west end.  

"This is a transformational moment for the Ford International Airport and for West Michigan," said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. "As passenger demand continues to reach new heights, these enhancements ensure our airport remains a modern, efficient and welcoming gateway for the millions of travelers who rely on us each year." 

The new improvements include a consolidated baggage inspection system (CBIS) that utilizes an individual carrier system (ICS) to create a single, integrated baggage screening network that improves operational efficiency and strengthens security. According to the airport, the system increases baggage processing capacity from approximately 600 bags per hour to nearly 1,000 bags per hour when fully operational. The advanced ICS technology uses RFID-enabled totes to transport checked luggage throughout the screening process, improving tracking, reliability and throughput. 

"The Terminal Enhancement Project reflects our commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience while preparing for the future growth of our region," said GRFIA Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. "These investments strengthen our ability to serve travelers, support our airline partners and contribute to the continued economic vitality of West Michigan."  

On Sept. 9, guests traveling on American Airlines, United Airlines and Frontier Airlines started to experience the new ticketing and self-service baggage check options. The airport says the redesigned system allows travelers to check in at kiosks, tag their own luggage and utilize automated bag drop technology, streamlining their journey from curb to gate. Additional airline partners are expected to transition to the new space by the end of 2027.

To help guests become acquainted with new options, the airport has developed a simple instructional video, and additional staff is available during the roll-out to help with navigation and answer questions. The airport notes that guests who prefer traditional check-in methods will still be able to check in with a ticketing agent.  

As part of the broader ELEVATE program, the airport is investing more than $600 million in critical infrastructure projects designed to increase capacity, enhance the customer experience and expand global connectivity opportunities for West Michigan. In addition to the Terminal Enhancement Project, several additional infrastructure improvements under the ELEVATE program are also underway or have been completed, including: 

• Relocation of the air traffic control tower, to make way for diverse terminal-area developments such as additional tenant hangars and more parking. The Federal Aviation Administration has selected a new site and completed design of a new tower on the east side of the airport. The tower is ready for construction pending federal funding. 

• The addition of a federal inspection station, which will enable GRFIA to offer nonstop international commercial passenger flights. The first phase – the addition of a new baggage claim area, restrooms and operational infrastructure – has been completed and are currently being used for domestic flights. 

• The expansion of Concourse A, which opened in 2024 and added eight new gates, increased the number of concession and retail options, added an executive lounge and provided a greater variety of seating options. 

• The creation of a new Consolidated Rental Car Facility, which opened in July 2026 and brought all rental car operations under one roof, streamlining activities for rental car partners while enhancing the guest experience and increasing capacity. 

• Additional parking capacity to accommodate increased guest traffic.