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About MCI
Kansas City International Airport (MCI) features a stunning new single terminal that opened in February 2023, replacing the outdated three-terminal design from 1972. The $1.5 billion New Terminal KC is a modern, 39-gate facility with expansive concession areas, public art installations, and a seamless passenger experience. Located 24 km northwest of downtown Kansas City, MCI serves the greater Kansas City metropolitan area across both Missouri and Kansas.
Why "MCI"?
MCI stands for Mid-Continent International, the airport's former name. Despite being renamed to Kansas City International in 1972, the FAA code was never changed.
Airlines Operating
Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Allegiant Air, Icelandair
Terminals
New Terminal KC
State-of-the-art single terminal opened in February 2023. The $1.5 billion facility features 39 gates, centralized security, over 50 dining and retail options, and a stunning public art collection celebrating Kansas City culture. The design incorporates local materials including Missouri limestone and Kansas prairie grass motifs.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at MCI
Southwest Airlines
New Terminal KC
Aer Lingus
Aerolineas Argentinas
Alaska Airlines
Allegiant Air
American Airlines
New Terminal KC
Delta Air Lines
New Terminal KC
Frontier Airlines
New Terminal KCShowing 8 of 11 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
RideKC Bus Route 229 connects to downtown Kansas City. Hotel shuttles available. Taxis and rideshare (Uber/Lyft) at designated areas on the arrivals level. SuperShuttle shared vans.
Taxi
$45-55 to downtown Kansas City
25-35 minutes to city center
Public Transport
$1.50 (RideKC)
45-60 minutes to downtown to city center
Parking at MCI
New parking garage directly connected to terminal. Short-term from $4/hr, covered garage from $18/day. Economy lot from $10/day....
Terminal Parking Garage
Covered Garage
Economy Parking
Airport Lounges
Escape Lounge
New Terminal KC
Independent lounge featuring locally inspired cuisine and Kansas City craft beverages. Modern design with comfortable seating and runway views. One of the highlights of the new terminal.
Delta Sky Club
New Terminal KC
Brand new Sky Club in the New Terminal KC with modern design, craft cocktails, and hot food buffet. Features views of the airfield and plenty of workspace.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Hampton Inn Kansas City Airport
NW 112th St, 5 minutes from terminal
Clean and reliable hotel with free airport shuttle, complimentary breakfast, and comfortable rooms. Day rooms available for extended layovers.
Kansas City Airport Marriott
Located on NW Tiffany Springs Pkwy, 7 minutes from terminal
Full-service Marriott hotel near the airport with free shuttle, indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Popular with business travelers and overnight layovers.
Food & Dining
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
BBQ
New Terminal KC (Airside)
Airport outpost of the legendary Kansas City BBQ joint (formerly Oklahoma Joe's). Famous Z-Man sandwich, burnt ends, and ribs. An absolute must-try at MCI.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Boulevard Beer Hall
American Pub
New Terminal KC (Airside)
Taproom from Kansas City's beloved Boulevard Brewing Company. Features a rotating selection of Boulevard beers on tap, pub fare, and a lively atmosphere.
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Dunbar's
Brunch & Comfort Food
New Terminal KC (Airside)
Inspired by the historic 18th & Vine jazz district. Serves Southern-inspired brunch, comfort food, and craft cocktails in a vibrant setting.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Rental Car Center, adjacent to New Terminal KC
Located at the new Rental Car Center connected to the terminal. No shuttle needed — covered walkway connects directly. Enterprise is headquartered in the KC metro area.
National Car Rental
Rental Car Center, adjacent to New Terminal KC
Same building as Enterprise (same parent company). Emerald Club members can skip the counter.
Hertz
Rental Car Center, adjacent to New Terminal KC
Full selection of vehicles at the new Rental Car Center. Connected to terminal via covered walkway.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
New Terminal KC Art Walk
Explore the new terminal's impressive public art collection featuring works by local and national artists. Includes large-scale murals, sculptures, and interactive installations celebrating Kansas City's culture, jazz heritage, and community.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
National World War I Museum
The country's leading institution dedicated to WWI history, located in downtown Kansas City at the Liberty Memorial. Features immersive exhibits and a stunning tower with panoramic city views. About 30 minutes from the airport.
KC BBQ Tour
Experience Kansas City's legendary BBQ scene. Visit iconic spots like Joe's KC, Q39, or Gates BBQ. KC is one of America's BBQ capitals with a style featuring slow-smoked meats and sweet, tomato-based sauce.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type A/B (US), USB-A and USB-C at all gates
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: USD (US Dollar)
- Exchange: Currency exchange kiosk in the new terminal near International Arrivals
- Hours: Varies by flight schedule
- Tipping: Tipping is expected. 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters, 15-20% for taxis.
Limited options at the airport. Exchange currency before arriving or use ATMs.
Smoking Areas
No indoor smoking in the new terminal. Designated outdoor smoking areas outside the terminal before security.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +1 816-243-5237
Contact Kansas City Aviation Department for items lost in the terminal. Airlines handle items left on aircraft.
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
ESTA required for Visa Waiver Program countries ($21). Others need a pre-approved visa.
Valid passport and ESTA or visa for international travelers. US domestic passengers need valid government-issued ID.
When to Fly
Best time: April-May and September-October for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Peak seasons: Summer months, Thanksgiving, December holidays, Chiefs football season
Insider Tips
The new terminal opened in 2023 and is a massive improvement over the old layout. Arrive early to enjoy the dining and shopping options. The BBQ options are excellent — this is Kansas City, after all. Security is centralized now so plan accordingly. The new terminal has a beautiful Kansas City-themed design throughout.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi throughout the new terminal. Extensive public art collection featuring local Kansas City artists. Pet relief areas. Nursing rooms. Family restrooms. Kids play area. Over 50 dining and shopping options. Charging stations at every gate.
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