Overview of Grand Forks International Airport
Grand Forks International Airport is a public-use airport located in Grand Forks County, North Dakota. The airport covers an area of 1,800 acres and has two runways. The airport is operated by the Grand Forks Regional Airport Authority.
The airport offers commercial passenger service through three airlines: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Allegiant Air. There are several daily flights to Minneapolis, Chicago, Dallas, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. The airport also serves as a base for the University of North Dakota’s aviation program, which has a fleet of over 130 aircraft.
Grand Forks International Airport is also a major center for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations. The airport hosts an FAA-designated UAS test site, where researchers and industry partners can test and develop UAS technologies in a controlled environment. The airport’s UAS program attracts a range of companies and organizations, from startups to Fortune 500 companies.
In addition to passenger and UAS operations, the airport is a hub for cargo and general aviation. The airport has two FBOs (fixed-base operators) that provide fueling, maintenance, and other services to general aviation customers. The airport is also home to several cargo carriers, including UPS and FedEx, which operate daily flights to and from the airport.
Overall, Grand Forks International Airport serves as a vital transportation and economic hub for the region. Its diverse range of services and operations make it a unique and important player in the aviation industry.
Terminals at Grand Forks International Airport
Grand Forks International Airport has one terminal building with two concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Both concourses offer a variety of services and amenities for travelers.
Concourse A is primarily used by Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. It has six gates and features a restaurant, a bar, a gift shop, a newsstand, and restrooms. The comfortable seating areas in Concourse A have charging stations for electronic devices, making it easy to stay connected while waiting for a flight.
Concourse B is used by Allegiant Air and serves as the airport’s main terminal. It has nine gates and offers a range of services, including a restaurant, a bar, a gift shop, a newsstand, and restrooms. Similar to Concourse A, Concourse B also has comfortable seating areas with charging stations for electronic devices.
Grand Forks International Airport also has a separate terminal for private planes. The Private Aviation Terminal offers a full-service experience for private jet passengers, including a lounge area, catering, and concierge services. It also has a conference room available for rent, making it an ideal choice for business travelers.
Overall, the terminals at Grand Forks International Airport are modern, clean, and offer a comfortable experience for travelers. With a range of services and amenities available, there is something for everyone, whether you’re traveling for business or leisure.
Airlines and Destinations
The Grand Forks International Airport is currently served by two airlines, which are Delta Airlines and Allegiant Air. Delta Airlines operates daily flights to Minneapolis-St. Paul, which is the main hub for Delta. Allegiant Air, on the other hand, flies to several destinations from Grand Forks including Las Vegas, Phoenix/Mesa, Orlando/Sanford, and St. Petersburg/Clearwater.
During the winter season, Allegiant Air also offers flights to Punta Gorda/Fort Myers and Tampa Bay/St. Pete. It’s worth noting that the routes operated by both airlines are subject to change depending on demand and seasonal changes.
Currently, there are no international flights available at the Grand Forks International Airport. However, the airport has been working on expanding its services and facilities to accommodate international flights in the near future.
Transportation Options at Grand Forks International Airport
Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) is located in North Dakota and offers several transportation options for travelers to get around.
One of the most convenient options is the shuttle service provided by the airport. The shuttle runs 24/7 and can take passengers to and from any location within a 20-mile radius of the airport. The shuttle service is operated by Go Airport Shuttle, and reservations can be made online or over the phone.
For those looking for more flexibility, several car rental companies operate out of the GFK airport. These include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. All of these companies have booths located within the airport terminal, making it easy for travelers to rent a vehicle upon arrival.
Another option for getting around is the shuttle bus service provided by the University of North Dakota. This shuttle runs between the airport and the UND campus, as well as several other locations in Grand Forks. The shuttle is free for students, faculty, and staff, but also available to the public for a small fee.
While there are no train lines directly connected to the GFK airport, Amtrak does operate a station in Grand Forks, just a few miles away. From there, travelers can take the train to destinations throughout the United States and Canada.
For those traveling with a larger group, charter bus services are also available. Several companies offer private transportation for events, parties, and other occasions.
In summary, Grand Forks International Airport offers a variety of transportation options for travelers to get around. Whether you prefer the convenience of a shuttle service, the flexibility of renting a car, or the affordability of public transportation, there is an option for everyone. So the next time you’re flying in or out of GFK, rest assured that getting around won’t be a problem.
Parking at Grand Forks International Airport
Grand Forks International Airport offers multiple parking options for travelers. The main parking lot is located just steps away from the terminal building and offers both short-term and long-term parking.
Drivers can choose from hourly, daily, and weekly rates depending on their length of stay. Short-term parking rates start at $2 per hour and max out at $13 per day, while long-term parking rates start at $8 per day and max out at $52 per week.
For those who value convenience, there is also a valet parking option available. This service allows travelers to drop off their vehicle in front of the terminal building and have it parked for them. Valet parking rates start at $10 for the first hour and max out at $20 per day.
In addition to these options, there is also an economy parking lot available for those looking to save money. This lot is located further from the terminal building but provides shuttle service to and from the airport. Economy parking rates start at $6 per day and max out at $38 per week.
Overall, Grand Forks International Airport offers a variety of parking options to fit the needs and budgets of all travelers.
Check-In Procedures at Grand Forks International Airport
At Grand Forks International Airport, passengers have multiple options for check-in. One convenient method is online check-in, which allows passengers to check in and print their boarding pass from the comfort of their own home or office. This method is available through the airline’s website and can typically be done up to 24 hours before the flight’s departure.
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, self-service kiosks are available inside the airport terminal. These kiosks allow passengers to check in, select seats, and print boarding passes without having to wait in line at the airline counter. This option is particularly useful for travelers who may not have access to a printer or who need to make last-minute changes to their itinerary.
Of course, traditional check-in at the airline counter is still an option for those who prefer a more personal touch. This option is particularly useful for passengers who may have questions or require special assistance. Additionally, some airlines may require passengers to check in at the counter if they are traveling with a pet or checking oversized baggage.
No matter which method of check-in a passenger chooses, it is important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Passengers should also ensure that they have all necessary travel documents, including a valid photo ID and any required visas or travel permits. By following these simple steps, passengers at Grand Forks International Airport can enjoy a stress-free check-in experience and get their trip off to a great start.
Security Procedures and Tips at Grand Forks International Airport
At Grand Forks International Airport, ensuring safety and security for all passengers and staff is a top priority. To achieve this, the airport has established stringent security procedures that comply with federal regulations.
Before heading to the airport, make sure to review the TSA guidelines on prohibited items to avoid any delays or issues during the security check. Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow enough time for the security process.
Make sure to remove any electronic devices, liquids, and bulky clothing items from your carry-on luggage before placing it through the X-ray machine. Be prepared to remove your shoes and any metal objects from your body.
To speed up the process, consider applying for TSA PreCheck, which allows you to use a separate security line and keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. It also lets you leave your laptop and liquids in your bag.
Overall, following these tips and cooperating with airport staff during the security check can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience at Grand Forks International Airport.
Customs and Immigration at Grand Forks International Airport
Upon arrival at Grand Forks International Airport, all passengers must go through customs and immigration procedures. This includes presenting a valid passport, visa (if required), and filling out an entry form.
Passengers are then screened by a customs officer who may ask a series of questions about the purpose of their trip, length of stay, and any items they are bringing into the country. After clearance, passengers retrieve their luggage and proceed to the exit.
For departing passengers, the process is similar. Passengers must go through security screening before reaching the customs and immigration area. They will present their passport and any necessary travel documents before being cleared for departure.
Overall, the customs and immigration process at Grand Forks International Airport is designed to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and maintain compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal building.
- There are several dining options, including a full-service restaurant and a snack bar.
- Gift shops and newsstands provide a variety of reading materials, snacks, and souvenirs.
- ATMs and currency exchange services are located in the main lobby for your convenience.
- The airport provides public telephones and charging stations for electronic devices.
- Restrooms, including family restrooms, are conveniently located throughout the terminal.
- Wheelchair accessible restrooms and water fountains are also available.
- There are two conference rooms available for rent, featuring audio-visual equipment and catering services.
Accessibility Services
Grand Forks International Airport provides a range of facilities and services to make travel easier for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These include accessible parking spaces, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and designated pick-up and drop-off areas.
Passengers can request assistance from airport staff, who are trained in mobility assistance and can provide aid with boarding and disembarking from aircraft. Additionally, the airport offers specialized equipment for passengers with mobility issues, such as wheelchairs and electric carts.
To ensure accessibility for all, Grand Forks International Airport is committed to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and regularly assesses its facilities and services to identify areas for improvement.
Connecting Flights at Grand Forks International Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Grand Forks International Airport, it’s important to allow enough time between flights. The airport recommends at least 60 minutes for domestic connections and 90 minutes for international connections.
Upon arrival, follow the signs for connecting flights and check the departure boards for your gate information. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask airport staff for assistance.
Be sure to gather all of your belongings from your first flight and double-check that you haven’t left anything behind before proceeding to your next gate. If you have checked baggage, it will be automatically transferred to your next flight.
Remember to also keep track of any changes to your flight schedule or gate information, as this can sometimes happen with connecting flights. By following these tips and allowing enough time, you can ensure a smooth transition between flights at Grand Forks International Airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After arriving at Grand Forks International Airport, passengers will proceed to the baggage claim area. The flight information display screen will indicate which carousel their luggage will arrive on.
If a passenger’s luggage is lost or damaged, they should report it immediately to the airline baggage service office. The office is located in the baggage claim area. Passengers will need to provide their baggage claim ticket and a description of the missing or damaged items.
The airline will track down the luggage using the bar code on the baggage tag. If the luggage is not found within a certain amount of time, the passenger may be entitled to compensation. It is important to keep all receipts related to any expenses incurred due to the lost or delayed luggage.
If a passenger finds an item on the airport premises, they should turn it in to a member of the airport staff or to the lost and found office located in the terminal building. It is important to report any lost or found items as soon as possible to increase the chances of recovery.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
Grand Forks International Airport has on-site emergency medical services available 24/7. In the event of an emergency, travelers can contact the airport’s emergency personnel by dialing 911 from any airport phone or by notifying airport staff. The airport has a well-equipped medical team to handle emergencies ranging from minor injuries to life-threatening situations.
In addition, there are defibrillators located throughout the airport, and all airport staff are trained in CPR and first aid. For non-emergency medical needs, there are several urgent care facilities and hospitals located within a short distance of the airport. These facilities offer a wide range of medical services, including diagnostic testing, x-rays, and emergency surgeries.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel options within a short distance from Grand Forks International Airport.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, and AmericInn by Wyndham are all less than a mile away from the airport.
Other nearby hotels include Baymont by Wyndham, located 1.6 miles away, and Sleep Inn & Suites, located 2.9 miles away.
Each of these hotels offer amenities such as free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and airport shuttle service.
Useful Tips:
When flying from Grand Forks International Airport, arrive early to avoid long lines and stress.
Check the airport’s website for parking options and rates before leaving home.
Don’t forget to bring your ID and boarding pass to get through security quickly.
Consider bringing an empty water bottle to refill after you pass through security.
If you have time, take a stroll through the airport’s art gallery or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants.
Lastly, make sure to check the flight status before heading to the airport to avoid any surprises.
Contact Information
– Airport Administration: (701) 795-6981
– Airport Police: (701) 787-8000
– Airport Maintenance: (701) 795-6985
– American Airlines: (800) 433-7300
– Delta Air Lines: (800) 221-1212
– TSA Lost and Found: (701) 775-6563
Please note that international flights are not currently offered at Grand Forks International Airport. For specific inquiries or further assistance, please refer to the airport’s official website.
Airports near Grand Forks International Airport
– Hector International Airport, Fargo (78 miles / 125 km)
Transportation options: Rental cars, taxis, shuttle services
– Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, Canada (144 miles / 232 km)
Transportation options: Rental cars, taxis, buses, limousines
– Bemidji Regional Airport, Bemidji (145 miles / 233 km)
Transportation options: Rental cars, taxis, shuttle services
– Thief River Falls Regional Airport, Thief River Falls (62 miles / 100 km)
Transportation options: Rental cars, taxis, shuttle services
These airports provide alternative flight options and may be useful for those with connecting flights or layovers. Transportation options vary but include rental cars, taxis, shuttle services, and in some cases, public transportation.