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Gerald R Ford Airport GRR Airport Traveler Guide

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GRR Airport Insights & Guide

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Tony Hanseder
Reviewed by: Hylke Robben
Updated:
Key GRR Airport Topics:

Getting to Know GRR Airport

Welcome to our Gerald R Ford Airport Online Guide, an invaluable resource for travelers using this significant transportation hub in Michigan. GRR is renowned for its three terminals, each packed with a variety of amenities designed to enhance your journey. From dining and shopping options to a range of passenger services, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of what the airport has to offer. A unique feature of GRR is its commitment to accessibility, with shuttle services provided for passengers with mobility issues between the Main Terminal and Concourse B. For those interested in exploring more about other airports they may visit on their journey, we recommend our complete guide to airports.

iFly Tip: Prepare for a smooth journey with children by visiting our comprehensive guide.

GRR Airport has three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 10 gates and is used by Delta and United Airlines. Concourse B has 6 gates and is used by American Airlines. The Main Terminal has 14 gates and is used by various airlines including Allegiant, Southwest, and Frontier.

When arriving at GRR, passengers will enter the Main Terminal. From there, they can access Concourse A and B through security checkpoints located near the entrance to each concourse. The airport also provides a shuttle service between the Main Terminal and Concourse B for passengers with mobility issues.

Passengers can find a variety of food and retail options in each terminal. Concourse A offers a coffee shop, a bar, and a fast food restaurant. Concourse B has a coffee shop and a newsstand. The Main Terminal has a food court with several options including a sit-down restaurant, a sandwich shop, and a pizza place. There are also several retail shops located throughout the airport.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

At the airport, passengers can easily move between the three terminals - Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. Walking is the most convenient way to get between the terminals, as they are all located within a short distance of each other. The Main Terminal serves as the hub for all airport operations, including check-in, baggage claim, and security checkpoints. Concourse A and Concourse B are connected to the Main Terminal by enclosed walkways, making it easy to navigate between them.

If you need assistance getting between the terminals, shuttle buses are available. These shuttles run every 10-15 minutes and are free of charge. They operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it easy for passengers to get where they need to go. The shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate passengers with disabilities.

Tips from GRR Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Gerald R. Ford International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from GRR-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"If you're flying through GRR, remember that Concourse A is a bit quieter, which is perfect for catching up on emails or reading before your flight. The walkways between terminals are easy to navigate, but if you have heavy luggage, consider using the shuttle service." — Emily S., East Grand Rapids, MI, January 2024

"I recommend downloading the airport map on your phone before arriving. It makes it super easy to find your gate and any food spots you might want to hit up before boarding." — Carlos M., Kentwood, MI, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"For a smooth ride to downtown Grand Rapids, The Rapid bus is reliable and budget-friendly. If you're in a hurry, ride-shares like Uber and Lyft are your best bet, just follow the signs to the designated pickup areas." — Priya K., Wyoming, MI, February 2024

"If you're new to the area, don't underestimate the convenience of renting a car. The rental counters are right inside the terminal, making it a breeze to get on the road quickly." — John L., Grandville, MI, May 2024

Parking

"For long-term parking, the economy lot is a great choice. It's affordable, and the shuttle service to the terminal runs frequently, so you won't have to wait long." — Lisa T., Ada, MI, June 2024

"If you're just picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It's free and you can wait comfortably until your passenger is ready to be picked up." — Ahmed H., Byron Center, MI, August 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss Bell's Brewery in Concourse B if you have some time to kill. It's a great spot to relax with a local craft beer before your flight." — Rachel J., Caledonia, MI, April 2024

"For a quick and healthy meal, Freshii in the Main Terminal is my go-to. They have a great selection of salads and wraps that are perfect for a pre-flight bite." — Mark R., Walker, MI, October 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the flight status displays as soon as you arrive at the airport. They provide real-time updates that can save you from unnecessary stress." — Hannah W., Hudsonville, MI, July 2024

"If you're traveling during peak times, arrive earlier than usual. Security lines can be long, but if you plan ahead, you'll have plenty of time to relax before your flight." — Tom K., Rockford, MI, September 2024

iFly Tip: Stay ahead of the curve with advice on minimizing delays from our airport wait times page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

When picking up or dropping off passengers at GRR, it's important to know the rules and regulations to avoid any unnecessary delays or fines. The airport provides curbside parking for passenger pick-ups and drop-offs, but there are restrictions in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of the process.

Curbside parking is only allowed for active loading and unloading of passengers and luggage. Drivers are not allowed to leave their vehicles unattended, and vehicles must be moved immediately after loading or unloading. Additionally, there are designated cell-phone waiting areas where drivers can wait for their passengers to arrive before proceeding to the curbside pick-up area. These waiting areas are located near the airport terminals, including Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal.

By following these guidelines, passengers and drivers can have a smooth and hassle-free experience when arriving or departing from GRR. It's important to plan ahead and allow enough time for pick-ups and drop-offs, especially during peak travel periods. With a little preparation and knowledge of the airport's rules, passengers and drivers can navigate the process with ease.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're flying out of GRR Airport, you'll have several parking options available to you. The airport offers both covered and uncovered parking in their on-site parking lots and garages. The parking facilities are located near the airport terminals, with Concourse A and B connected to the parking garage via a covered walkway. The Main Terminal has a surface lot that is within walking distance.

If you're picking up someone from the airport, there are cell phone waiting areas available where you can wait for free until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all on-site parking facilities. There are designated spaces located near the elevators and walkways for easy access to the terminals.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport terminals, and can often be reserved in advance to ensure availability.

Get details about GRR parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

When arriving at the airport (GRR), there are several ground transportation options available to travelers.

  • Car rental facilities are located on the lower level of the airport terminal. Major providers include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Car rental information.
  • Taxis are available at the airport and can be found outside of the baggage claim area. Drop-off areas are located at the curbside of the terminal. Fares are based on metered rates and vary depending on the destination.
  • Ride share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at GRR. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area. However, it is important to note that there are restrictions on where these services can drop-off and pick-up passengers.
  • Airport shuttles are available for travelers who need transportation to nearby hotels or other destinations. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area. Fares vary depending on the destination and the shuttle service provider.
  • Public transportation is available through The Rapid bus system, which provides service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside of the baggage claim area. Fares are based on a zone system and vary depending on the destination.

iFly Tip: Avoid delays at security by following our carry-on luggage tips to ensure smooth screening.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be a tiring experience, especially when you have to deal with long layovers or early morning flights. One way to alleviate this stress is by booking a hotel near the airport. Not only does this provide you with a convenient place to rest and refresh, but it also reduces the risk of missing your flight due to traffic or other unforeseen circumstances. From luxurious suites to cozy rooms, there are a number of excellent hotels located in close proximity to the airport, each offering a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and hospitality. So why wait? Start planning your trip today and ensure a smooth, stress-free travel experience. View all Gerald R. Ford Airport Hotels now.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight, Gerald R Ford Airport has plenty of options to choose from. In Concourse A, you'll find Biggby Coffee for your caffeine fix and Great American Bagel for a quick breakfast or snack. In Concourse B, check out Bell's Brewery for a local craft beer or grab a sandwich at Arnie's Bakery & Restaurant. If you're in the Main Terminal, stop by the Grand Rapids Magazine Newsstand for some reading material or pick up a souvenir at the Michigan Marketplace.

For a sit-down meal, head to the pre-security area of the Main Terminal and try out the restaurant at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. The restaurant offers a variety of American cuisine and has a full bar. If you're looking for a grab-and-go option, Freshii in the Main Terminal has healthy salads, wraps, and bowls.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Grand Rapids Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check out the food and shopping page.

Passenger Services

Gerald R Ford Airport in the United States offers a range of services to ensure that passengers have a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available at the airport, so if you happen to misplace any of your belongings, you can easily retrieve them.

Traveling with children? The airport has designated children's play areas where kids can burn off some energy before their flight. Additionally, special-needs services are available for those who require assistance, such as wheelchair rentals and accessible restrooms.

Need to do some banking? The airport has ATMs and currency exchange services available. Medical help is also available at the airport in case of any emergencies.

Overall, Grand Rapids Airport provides a range of helpful services to ensure that passengers have a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight, especially if there are any delays or cancellations. Fortunately, there are several ways to check the flight status at GRR.

One of the easiest ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time information about flight departures, arrivals, and gate information. Simply look for your flight number and pay attention to any updates or changes.

Another option is to download the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines have their own app that allows passengers to check the status of their flight, receive alerts about delays or cancellations, and even check in for their flight. These apps often provide push notifications, text messages, or emails to keep passengers informed about any changes to their flight.

Finally, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at GRR Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) is located 13 miles southeast of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the GRR Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Gerald R. Ford International Airport handles approximately 10,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 120 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from GRR are Chicago O'Hare, Detroit Metro, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Denver, and Orlando.
  • Hub Status: Gerald R. Ford International Airport is a hub for Allegiant Air, Southwest Airlines, and Delta Airlines.

Airport History

The Gerald R Ford Airport, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1919: The first airport in Grand Rapids, known as the Kent County Airport, was established.
  • 1948: The airport was renamed the Kent County International Airport.
  • 1963: The airport's first terminal building was constructed.
  • 1999: The airport was renamed the Gerald R Ford International Airport in honor of the 38th President of the United States, who grew up in Grand Rapids.
  • 2004: A major expansion project was completed, including a new concourse and parking garage.
  • 2011: The airport set a new record for passenger traffic, with over 2 million passengers passing through the airport.
  • 2017: A new consolidated rental car facility was opened, making it easier for travelers to rent cars at the airport.
  • 2020: The airport implemented new health and safety measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased cleaning and sanitization procedures and mandatory face coverings for all passengers and employees.

Today, the Gerald R Ford International Airport continues to serve as an important transportation hub for the West Michigan region, connecting travelers to destinations across the United States and around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Gerald R. Ford International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: GRR
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 616-233-6000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Gerald R. Ford International Airport, 5500 44th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Gerald R Ford Airport Q&A

There are three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A serves Delta and United Airlines, Concourse B serves American Airlines, and the Main Terminal serves various airlines including Allegiant, Southwest, and Frontier.
You can take The Rapid bus service, which is a cost-effective option located right outside the baggage claim. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available from designated pickup zones.
The economy lot is recommended for long-term parking due to its affordability and efficient shuttle service to the terminals.
Concourse A has Biggby Coffee and Great American Bagel, Concourse B features Bell's Brewery and Arnie's Bakery & Restaurant, and the Main Terminal offers a food court with various options including a sit-down restaurant.
Yes, there is a shuttle service between the Main Terminal and Concourse B specifically for passengers with mobility issues, running every 10-15 minutes.
Flight status can be checked via in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or the iFly website for real-time updates.
Use the cell phone waiting area for free until your passenger is ready, then proceed to the curbside pick-up area for active loading.
Yes, there are several hotels in close proximity to the airport offering a range of accommodations. Check the iFly website for a list of nearby hotels.
Ground transportation options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation via The Rapid bus system.
GRR is undergoing a $135 million terminal expansion to include additional gates and dining options, and an $85 million project to improve runway snow removal capabilities.