Michigan-based Avflight hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction of a new state-of-the-art fixed base operation and hangar on a five-acre leased parcel at the Gerald R Ford International airport. The event included local airport staff, airport authority board members, dignitaries and Avflight executives.

The new facility includes a 5,000 sq ft FBO building, plus a 30,000 sq ft hangar located on the airport's east side with convenient access to the terminal and taxiways/runways as well as the local highway system. Other services provided to the airport community include premiere indoor car parking, secured access and 1,650 sq ft of office space with the ability to build to suit.

“We are anxious to break ground on this new facility, and we are proud to see growth in general aviation at our airport as the demand for more options increases,” says airport president and CEO Tory Richardson. “The Ford airport contributes over $3.1 billion in economic output in west Michigan each year and as our community grows, so does the need for air travel and services associated with air travel. General aviation at our airport is responsible for business traffic, mission trips and charitable flights, health related services and even educational opportunities. Avflight is a welcome addition to our airport.”

With 21 locations worldwide, Avflight plans to add more than 30 new jobs and will make a $6-7 million capital investment at GRR, establishing a world class FBO serving both general aviation and the airlines. It is a sister company of Avfuel which has more than 650 branded FBO locations worldwide.

“We look forward to bringing Avflight's expertise and passion for aviation to Grand Rapids, one of Michigan's flagship communities with so much to offer its businesses and visitors. Our multimillion dollar investment in this new complex reflects our long term commitment to the region and confidence in our shared future at the airport,” adds Avflight's vice president of operations Joe Meszaros.

The new facility is expected to open Spring 2020.