Gerald R. Ford International (GRR) contributes more than 40,000 jobs in West Michigan and has a $3.1 billion annual economic output, equivalent to 5.8 percent of the Muskegon and Grand Rapids-Wyoming metropolitan statistical areas, according to a study conducted by Grand Valley State University’s economics department.
The study also found that businesses and governmental units located at the airport contribute $212 million to the West Michigan economy and that $418 million from outside the region comes in to the area via tourism made possible by the airport.
“The strength of our airport is a direct reflection of the thriving West Michigan economy and a renewed commitment of local business and leisure travelers to choose the Gerald R. Ford International Airport as their primary airport,” says Brian Ryks, executive director.
