Kansas City International Airport, also known as MCI, is a public airport located 15 miles northwest of downtown Kansas City, Missouri. It is one of the largest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers each year. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Kansas City International Airport, including its history, terminals, amenities, and more.
History of Kansas City International Airport
Kansas City International Airport was built in 1972, and it was designed to be a modern and efficient airport. The airport was built on a 10,000-acre site, which was chosen for its proximity to the city and its accessibility by highway. The airport was officially opened on November 11, 1972, and it was initially served by three airlines: American Airlines, United Airlines, and Trans World Airlines.
Over the years, Kansas City International Airport has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate growing passenger traffic. In 1986, the airport added a new terminal, which was designed to handle international flights. In 2002, the airport underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of new concourses, gates, and amenities.
Terminals at Kansas City International Airport
Kansas City International Airport has three terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C. Each terminal is equipped with a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges.
Terminal A
Terminal A is the smallest of the three terminals, with 30 gates. It is served by several airlines, including Air Canada, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
Terminal B
Terminal B is the largest of the three terminals, with 40 gates. It is served by several airlines, including American Airlines, American Eagle, and Southwest Airlines.
Terminal C
Terminal C is the newest of the three terminals, with 20 gates. It is served by several airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines.
Amenities at Kansas City International Airport
Kansas City International Airport offers a variety of amenities to make your travel experience more comfortable and convenient. Some of the amenities include:
- Dining: Kansas City International Airport has a variety of dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and snack bars. Some popular options include Arthur Bryant's, Gates Bar-B-Q, and Starbucks.
- Shopping: The airport has a variety of shops, including gift shops, clothing stores, and newsstands. Some popular options include the Kansas City Chiefs Store, the Kansas City Royals Store, and the PGA Tour Shop.
- Lounge: The airport has several lounges, including the American Airlines Admirals Club, the Delta Sky Club, and the United Club.
- Free Wi-Fi: The airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals.
- Power Outlets: The airport has power outlets throughout the terminals, making it easy to charge your devices.
Transportation Options
Kansas City International Airport offers several transportation options to get you to and from the airport. Some of the options include:
- Taxis: Taxis are available outside each terminal.
- Uber and Lyft: Ride-sharing services are available at the airport.
- Shuttles: Several shuttle services are available, including the airport's own shuttle service, which runs between the terminals and the parking garages.
- Rental Cars: Several rental car companies have desks at the airport, including Alamo, Avis, and Hertz.
- Public Transportation: The airport is served by the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), which offers bus service to and from the airport.
Parking Options
Kansas City International Airport offers several parking options, including:
- Terminal Parking: The airport has several parking garages, each located near a terminal.
- Economy Parking: The airport has several economy parking lots, which are located farther from the terminals.
- Park and Ride: The airport offers a park and ride service, which allows you to park your car and take a shuttle to the terminal.
Security Checkpoints
Kansas City International Airport has several security checkpoints, each located near a terminal. The checkpoints are operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and they are equipped with the latest security technology.
Special Services
Kansas City International Airport offers several special services, including:
- TSA Precheck: The airport offers TSA Precheck, which allows you to expedite your security screening process.
- Global Entry: The airport offers Global Entry, which allows you to expedite your customs screening process.
- Wheelchair and Scooter Services: The airport offers wheelchair and scooter services for passengers with disabilities.
What are the airport's hours of operation?
+The airport is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How do I get to the airport?
+The airport is located 15 miles northwest of downtown Kansas City, Missouri. You can get to the airport by taxi, Uber, Lyft, shuttle, or rental car.
What are the airport's parking options?
+The airport has several parking options, including terminal parking, economy parking, and park and ride.
We hope this guide to Kansas City International Airport has been helpful in planning your trip. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just passing through, we're confident that you'll find the airport's amenities and services to be convenient and comfortable.