Transportation

Gerald R. Ford Airport to launch self-service bag drop

Joseph Hendrickson - stock.adobe.com

August 21, 2026

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Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan, will introduce self-service bag drop for selected airlines Sept. 9 as part of a terminal and baggage-handling modernization project, according to a Travel Diary report.

Passengers flying American Airlines, United Airlines and Frontier Airlines will use kiosks to check in, print and attach baggage tags and place luggage on designated conveyors. Delta Air Lines, Allegiant Air, Southwest Airlines, Avelo Airlines and Sun Country Airlines are expected to transition in 2027.

The upgraded baggage network will use an Individual Carrier System that places each suitcase in a separate tote and tracks it with radio-frequency identification technology. The integrated system will move bags from passenger drop-off through TSA screening and airline handling, helping reduce routing errors, conveyor jams and problems caused by loose straps, wheels and handles. Airport and airline employees will remain available to assist passengers, including those traveling with mobility devices, pets, oversized items or special baggage.

Airport officials expect the new system to increase baggage-processing capacity from about 600 to nearly 1,000 bags per hour when fully operational. The changes could shorten check-in lines and improve baggage tracking, although travelers should allow additional time during the initial rollout as passengers and employees adjust to the equipment. Airlines' baggage fees, size limits, weight restrictions and check-in deadlines will continue to apply.