Ford Airport

Ford Airport (IMT) is not just a transport hub, but a distinctive air gateway to the picturesque Upper Peninsula region of Michigan. Founded on the initiative of the legendary Henry Ford, this airport combines a rich industrial heritage with a cosy atmosphere, devoid of the stress and noise of major international hubs. It is ideal for those who value their time and wish to begin their journey across the American Midwest with maximum comfort and tranquility.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Ford Airport is its compactness and efficiency. Passengers here are spared from multi-kilometre walks and tiring queues: flight check-in and passing through security screening take mere minutes. This allows travellers to arrive at the terminal a bit later than usual, saving precious time for rest or business. The intuitive layout of the building eliminates the possibility of getting lost, and the staff is known for their friendliness and readiness to help.

It is impossible not to note the historical significance of this place. The airport prides itself on its unique heritage: on its grounds stands an original hangar built back in 1928, which reminds one of the golden era of aviation and the city's direct link to the Ford automotive empire. For history and technology enthusiasts, this turns ordinary flight waiting into an opportunity to touch the past of American aviation.

Despite its modest size, the airport ensures a reliable connection with the world. Regular flights connect Iron Mountain with major international hubs (most often with Detroit or Minneapolis), opening access to a global network of routes. Convenient parking within walking distance of the entrance and the absence of hustle make departing from IMT an excellent start to any trip.

Below you will find useful contact details for Ford Airport (IMT), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential issues.

• Official website: www.fordairport.org
• Help Desk Phone: +1 (906) 774-4328
• Address: 500 Riverhills Rd, Iron Mountain, MI 49801, USA
• Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: The airport maintains a Facebook page where you can follow the news: www.facebook.com/FordAirportIMT
• Lost Luggage Information: For items left in the terminal building, please contact the airport administration. If items were lost on board the aircraft or in checked luggage, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and support, you may use the main airport telephone number: +1 (906) 774-4328.

Ford Airport (IMT) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Iron Mountain, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose one of several methods to get from the airport to the city or vice versa. The choice depends on your budget and travel plans within the state of Michigan, USA.

Taxis and Transfers. The simplest and fastest, but at the same time the most expensive way to get to the city centre is by taxi. The trip will take just 10-15 minutes. A car can be found at the rank outside the terminal exit. Ridesharing services also operate in the region, although their availability may be limited. For greater convenience, especially if you are travelling with large luggage or family, it is recommended to book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental. For those planning to explore the picturesque surroundings of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, car rental will be the ideal solution. Counters of several major rental companies are located within the Ford Airport terminal. This option provides complete freedom of movement and can prove economically beneficial, especially for long trips or family holidays. It is recommended to book a car in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season.

Public Transport. There is no direct public transport connection, such as city buses or trains, to Ford Airport. However, some hotels in Iron Mountain offer a shuttle transfer service to their guests, which may be free or provided for a moderate fee. When booking accommodation, be sure to check if your hotel provides such an option, as this could be the most budget-friendly choice.

Airport Parking. If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, convenient paid parking is at your disposal. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, located in immediate proximity to the terminal. This is a safe and practical option for those who prefer to leave their car for the duration of their absence.

Ford Airport (IMT) in the city of Iron Mountain is a compact and convenient aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. The airport operates one passenger terminal, serving both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about complex transfers or finding the right building — all procedures take place in one location.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the common area where airline check-in counters and car rental points are located. Navigation is intuitive: all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Due to the small size of the terminal, getting lost here is practically impossible, and signs are easily readable.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly demarcated but located in the same building. The departure zone is situated after the security screening point and consists of a small waiting lounge with a boarding gate. The arrival zone is essentially the baggage claim section, where passengers arrive immediately after disembarking from the aircraft. Everything is located on one level, making movement convenient for all categories of travellers, including passengers with reduced mobility.

One of the main features of Ford Airport is the speed of passing through all pre-flight formalities. Flight check-in and security screening usually take a minimal amount of time, often no more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure to check in luggage and pass through necessary procedures without rushing.

To navigate the terminal comfortably, simply follow the signs. Since all major services — from check-in to the boarding gate — are within sight, the main advice for travellers is simply to enjoy the absence of the hustle characteristic of large airports. If you have any questions, the friendly airport staff are always ready to help.

The history of Ford Airport (IMT) is inextricably linked with the name of the legendary industrialist Henry Ford. Unlike many airports that were created as military or purely passenger hubs, this one was built on the initiative of the Ford Motor Company. The official opening took place in 1928, and the airport became an important part of the industrial infrastructure of the city of Iron Mountain.

Initially, the airport's main task was to ensure rapid transport connection between Ford factories in Dearborn and the local plant in Kingsford, which produced wooden parts for Model T cars. However, its significance grew quickly. In the very year of its opening, the airline Stout Air Services (later becoming part of United Airlines) launched regular passenger flights, making Ford Airport one of the first in the USA to serve commercial aviation.

One of the airport's main historical assets is its original hangar, built in 1928 according to the design of the famous architect Albert Kahn. At the time of construction, it was considered one of the largest and most modern in the world and is today included in the National Register of Historic Places of the USA. This hangar is a living testament to the pioneering spirit of the era and Henry Ford's contribution to the development of aviation.

After World War II, in 1947, the airport was acquired by Dickinson County and became fully public. In subsequent decades, it underwent several stages of modernisation. A key event was the construction of a new passenger terminal in 1993, which replaced the historic building and allowed for improved passenger service quality. The runways were also reconstructed multiple times to accommodate modern aircraft.

Among the interesting facts from the history of Ford Airport is the launch of the first airmail service in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan from here. Today, the airport continues to play an important role in the life of the region, serving flights and connecting Iron Mountain with major aviation hubs. Its history is a unique example of how industrial initiative can give impetus to the development of civil aviation and leave behind a rich historical heritage.

Ford Airport (IMT) offers passengers a set of essential services ensuring a comfortable stay while waiting for a flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed so that travellers can find everything they need. The terminal building features a cosy café where you can have a snack or drink coffee, as well as a small shop with travel goods and souvenirs.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Charging zones for electronic devices are also provided. For travellers with children, mother and child rooms are equipped. The airport is fully adapted for serving passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and assistance is provided for moving through the terminal and boarding the aircraft.

ATMs for cash withdrawal are located in the airport building. Although there are no hotels or major business centres within the terminal itself, several hotels offering comfortable accommodation are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, in the city of Iron Mountain. If necessary, airport staff are always ready to provide information support and assist with resolving any arising questions.

Passengers departing from Ford Airport (IMT) should note that this is a small regional air terminal, and the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. A small café operates in the terminal where you can purchase light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. However, there are no full-service restaurants offering hot meals at the airport.

For those needing a quick bite, vending machines are also installed in the terminal building. Their assortment is standard: crisps, chocolate bars, and soft drinks. This is a convenient option if there is very little time left before departure.

Considering the modest selection, travellers are strongly advised to plan their meals in advance. The best solution would be to eat at one of the establishments in the city of Iron Mountain before travelling to the airport. There you will find many options to suit any taste — from cosy cafés to restaurants serving American cuisine.

To ensure your journey through Ford Airport goes smoothly, make use of these tips. The airport in the city of Iron Mountain is relatively small, making it more convenient compared to major hubs. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before departure. This time is usually sufficient to check in luggage and pass through registration and security control without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24 hours before departure.

Screening procedures at Ford Airport are standard, but queues are typically shorter than in metropolises. Nevertheless, be prepared in advance: place all electronic devices larger than a mobile phone in a separate tray. Remember the rule for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent resealable bag with a capacity of up to 1 litre. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Since small regional aircraft often fly from Ford Airport, it is worth checking the cabin layout in advance to avoid choosing a seat with a restricted view due to the wing or engine. If you have a connecting flight, ensure when booking that you have enough time between flights (at least 60-90 minutes depending on the transfer airport).

It is important to understand that Ford Airport serves mainly domestic flights. This means that if you are flying from abroad, you will pass through customs and passport control at the first airport of arrival in the USA. In Iron Mountain, there are no such procedures for domestic passengers. If you are departing abroad, you will undergo customs formalities at the last American airport before flying out of the country.

To save money, book tickets in advance and consider travelling light with only hand luggage to avoid baggage fees. In case of a flight delay, first check the information on the display board and in the airline's app. Approach a carrier representative to find out the reasons for the delay and available options (for example, rebooking onto another flight). Remain calm and clarify if you are entitled to compensation, such as food vouchers, depending on the duration of the wait.