by On Friday, Avelo Airlines announced it will begin flying out of Ford Airport, kicking off with twice-weekly nonstop flights to Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina. Starting in June, Avelo will add another route to Lakeland International Airport in Florida. Both flights are scheduled for Mondays and Fridays.
Travelers can take advantage of special one-way fares from Grand Rapids to North Carolina starting at just $49. However, these discounted tickets are valid for flights between September 5 and September 29 and must be booked by May 30. Currently, fares on the airline’s website range from $39 to $119 for one-way trips.
“We’re excited to welcome Avelo Airlines,” said Tory Richardson, President and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “These new routes provide West Michigan travelers with easy access to Raleigh-Durham’s booming tech and research hub, as well as to the sunny, family-friendly destinations of Central Florida.”
Ford Airport has been actively promoting its nonstop flight options and is steadily increasing its reach. It now offers direct flights to nearly 40 destinations, covering both seasonal and year-round service. Recently, Allegiant Air added nonstop flights to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Jacksonville, Florida. Earlier this month, Delta Air Lines announced it will begin nonstop service to Orlando starting in December.
Looking ahead, Ford Airport is also working on establishing a federal inspection station, which will open the door to international nonstop flights, including a potential route to Cancun, Mexico.
The airport continues to grow, having served a record-breaking 4.17 million passengers in 2024. It’s in the midst of a $600 million development project called Elevate, which includes building a consolidated car rental facility, enhancing the terminal with relocated ticket counters, relocating the air traffic control tower, and constructing a new parking garage.
Recent improvements include the opening of an expanded Concourse A in 2023, as well as new passenger amenities like an indoor animal relief area, a sensory room, and a variety of new food and beverage options — all contributing to a better travel experience for residents of Wyoming and the surrounding West Michigan region.
