Muskegon Sun

As Michigan continues to reopen amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, officials at Gerald R. Ford International Airport are sharing precautions with air travelers in hopes they will start flying again.

The airport issued a news release on July 6, introducing its "Fly Safe. Fly Ford" campaign, intended to educate travelers on new health precautions and to restore confidence in air travel.

The campaign includes new safety measures between the parking garage and the jet bridge, including enhanced sanitation protocols, new protective guards and more signs that promote best practices.

Ford Airport President and CEO Tory Richardson | LinkedIn

"For decades, the Ford Airport has played a critical role in connecting people to the possibilities of the world," Ford International President and CEO Tory Richardson said in the release. "While many are longing to travel again, understandably there are questions of how to remain healthy while flying."

The "Fly Safe. Fly Ford" campaign intended to highlight the airport's "numerous steps" being taken "to keep passengers safe while still offering a comfortable travel experience," Richardson said in the news release.

"Our easy-to-navigate size has been a factor in our pre-COVID record success -- and we see it as a clear strength as we prepare for the new normal of travel," Richardson said, according to the release.

Ford International Airport, operating under the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority since the summer of 2016, and owned and operated by Kent County for 60 years prior, set a passenger record last year, according to the airport's website.

The airport in 2019 marked the seventh consecutive year of record-setting growth, according to a news release issued in January, weeks before the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic prompted government-mandated nationwide shutdowns and airlines saw their businesses tank.

The airport remains the second-busiest in Michigan, behind Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport.

In addition to the "Fly Safe. Fly Ford" campaign, Ford International passengers and guests "medically able to do so" are being asked to wear face coverings. Airport personnel are also wearing masks, and anyone who forgets their facial coverings and other personal protective equipment may purchase them in concession areas and vending machines at the airport.

The day following the announcement of the "Fly Safe. Fly Ford" campaign, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said that reopening of Michigan's economy may have to take a step back as COVID-19 cases continue to mount in the state.