The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is celebrating the grand opening of major enhancements delivered through its Terminal Enhancement Project, marking a significant milestone in the Airport's ongoing ELEVATE capital development program.

 

The newest improvements introduce a transformed ticketing experience, expanded passenger processing capabilities and one of the nation's most advanced checked baggage handling systems. The Terminal Enhancement Project, which broke ground in April 2024, expands the terminal’s west end and represents a $135 million investment in the Airport's future. 

 

At the heart of the project is a new Consolidated Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) utilizing an Individual Carrier System (ICS) to create a single, integrated baggage screening network that improves operational efficiency and strengthens security. 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 Ford International Airport is the first airport in the United States to pair this technology with a self-service bag check process. 

 

The Terminal Enhancement Project also includes expanded ticketing areas, consolidated airline check-in counters and enhancements that will improve passenger flow throughout the terminal. 

 

Starting on Sept. 9, guests traveling on American Airlines, United Airlines and Frontier Airlines will experience the new ticketing and self-service baggage check options. 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. Guests who prefer traditional check-in methods will still be able to check in with a ticketing agent. 

 

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 the Airport 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, or CONRAC, which opened in July  2026,  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.