News Summary
Avelo Airlines has announced the launch of new nonstop flights from Gerald R. Ford International Airport to Raleigh-Durham and Lakeland, starting in May and June 2025. The service will operate twice weekly, making Avelo the sole airline offering direct flights to these popular destinations. With one-way fares starting at $59, this initiative aims to enhance travel options for residents of Grand Rapids and reduce congestion typically found at larger airports. The new routes respond to the growing demand for direct flights, reflecting Avelo’s commitment to affordable travel.
Grand Rapids, MI – Avelo Airlines has announced the launch of new nonstop flights from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) in North Carolina and Lakeland International Airport (LAL) in Central Florida. These flights are set to start on May 23, 2025, for Raleigh-Durham and June 13, 2025, for Lakeland.
The service will operate twice weekly, specifically on Fridays and Mondays, marking Avelo Airlines as the sole airline providing nonstop service between Grand Rapids and these two popular destinations. This new offering reflects Avelo’s commitment to enhancing travel options for Michiganders.
One-way fares for these new routes start at a competitive price of $59, making travel to these locations more accessible for residents of Grand Rapids and surrounding areas. Avelo Airlines, utilizing Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, aims to deliver an efficient travel experience that underscores their strategy of providing affordable travel options. The airline, which has been operational since 2021, has already established a presence in Michigan through its services in Traverse City.
The introduction of these new routes comes in response to the growing demand for direct flights from Gerald R. Ford International Airport, which has seen over 4 million travelers in 2024. This surge in passenger numbers indicates a rising interest in travel options and could signify a shift in the way people choose to fly, especially toward less congested airports compared to larger hubs like Orlando International Airport (MCO).
As part of Avelo’s ongoing efforts to accommodate the needs of the Grand Rapids community, the addition of these routes aims to provide travelers not only with affordability, but also with an escape from the hustle and bustle often associated with larger airports. The GRR Airport Authority Board Chair has expressed enthusiasm for the new flights, identifying them as a significant milestone in expanding the region’s direct flight options.
These new nonstop services are poised to enhance the connectivity of Grand Rapids, linking residents and travelers to two key regions in the United States known for their tourism and business opportunities. Travelers from Grand Rapids can look forward to visiting North Carolina’s thriving Research Triangle or enjoying the sunny climate of Central Florida without the hassle of layovers and crowded terminals.
Overall, Avelo Airlines’ new service is set to provide residents of Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas with valuable travel choices that focus on convenience, cost-effectiveness, and access to key destinations. This strategic addition by the airline is expected to be welcomed warmly by the community, especially in light of the evolving traveling landscape in Michigan and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- WWMT News
- Wikipedia: Grand Rapids, Michigan
- WZZM 13 News
- Google Search: Avelo Airlines
- Fox 17 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Airlines
- MLive News
- Google News: Grand Rapids Airport
