GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is named the best small airport in the country after taking top slot in the USA TODAY Reader's Choice Award.
Ford went up against 20 other contenders that were chosen by a panel of experts. Then, the public got to vote for the favorite.
“We already knew our guests are the best in the country so it’s a real honor to know the feeling is mutual,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President & CEO Tory Richardson said.
“One of the unique characteristics of our airport is the incredible support we receive from our community, which we don’t take for granted. This award underscores how important our commitment to the guest experience is.”
For a long stint, Ford was trailing behind Huntsville International Airport in the #2 spot. By the end of the month-long contest, the Beer City airport fans got their way.
The top ten winners include the following:
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)
- Huntsville International Airport (HSV)
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)
- Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
- Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)
- Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
- Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
- Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (BTV)
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
- Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC)
One thing that made Grand Rapids stand out from the pack is the local craft beer available for visitors, as well as the dedicated military welcome center and plane-themed kids playroom.
“We thank everyone who took the time to share their vote for the Ford International Airport,” Richardson said. “We also thank our entire team and partners who are critical in creating an engaging and comfortable guest experience.
“As we celebrate six decades of serving the West Michigan community, we look forward to continuing to provide world class travel in an accessible and convenient way for another 60 years – and beyond.”
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