KENT COUNTY, Mich. — The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting a record-breaking number of people traveling out of Kent County for the holidays this year.
The airport expects more than 148,000 passengers through the checkpoint from Nov. 27 to Dec. 2.
“This Thanksgiving season, we are tracking 5% higher than last year's numbers… for 2024 we're tracking 12% higher than 2023 so last year," said Heidi Groenboom, communications and events associate.
Ford International Airport saw about 3.7 million passengers total throughout 2023 and for 2024 will have a 12% increase.
Airport officials recommend leaving two hours before flight times. Checkpoints are expected to be busy around 6 a.m. and during afternoon flights.
“Our main reminders for people traveling this season would be to arrive two hours before your scheduled departure time,” Groenboom said. “Just so you can find a parking spot, check your bag, get through security, and maybe grab a quick bite before your flight."
Groenboom also recommends visiting the TSA website to double-check what travelers can and cannot bring in their luggage.