Kansas City International Airport (MCI), also known as KCI, experienced a significant increase in passenger traffic in 2019, serving 11.7 million passengers. To enhance the travel experience and accommodate the growing number of travelers, MCI consolidated all flight operations into a brand-new terminal in early 2023. This new terminal offers improved gate access, modern facilities, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or visiting for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about navigating MCI.
Quick Information
- Airport: Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
- Terminal: 1 terminal and 2 concourses — A and B
- Airport Address: 1 International Sq., Kansas City, MO 64153
- Distance From Downtown Kansas City: 15 miles (24 km)
- Websites: flykci.com
- Phone Number: 816-243-5237
- Passengers Served: 11.7 million (pre-pandemic)
- Destinations Served: 44 domestic and 2 international destinations
- Flight Information: Departures and arrivals info can be found online
MCI Terminal Map
Kansas City International Airport map. Image Credit: Kansas City International Airport
Airlines Operating From MCI
MCI is home to numerous airlines serving domestic and a few international destinations. Below are some of the major airlines operating at MCI:
You are viewing: Navigating Kansas City International Airport (MCI) with Ease
- Delta Air Lines
- Southwest Airlines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
MCI Airport Terminal
The new terminal at MCI is located northwest of the previous Terminals B and C, which will eventually be demolished. The terminal features two levels for departures and arrivals, as well as a convenient parking garage with over 6,000 spaces.
Level 1 — Arrivals
Kansas City International Airport arrivals. Image Credit: Kansas City International Airport
Arriving passengers will find baggage claim, Customs and Immigration facilities for international flights, a variety of cafes and shops in the arrivals hall, and accessible ground transportation options.
Level 2 — Check-in
Kansas City International Airport level 2 check-in. Image Credit: Kansas City International Airport
Check-in counters are located on level 2, with airline desks at either end of the terminal and security checkpoints in the middle. Passengers can drop off or pick up travelers at the arrivals curb or use the nearby parking garage. While there is a café in the check-in area, other restaurants and shops are available inside the secure area.
Level 2 — Departures
Kansas City International Airport level 2 departures. Image Credit: Kansas City International Airport
After clearing security, passengers will find Concourse A to the right, which offers 13 gates, and Concourse B to the left, which offers 27 gates. Concourse A features a central area with various shops and restaurants, while Concourse B offers a Delta Sky Club near the entrance.
Inter-terminal Transport
With the consolidation of all operations into one terminal, getting around MCI is now more convenient. The walkway to Concourse B is 635 feet (193 meters) and features moving walkways to assist passengers with the distance. Additionally, passengers can freely move between all airside areas for flight connections, as there is only one security checkpoint for both concourses.
Security and Customs at MCI
MCI boasts one security checkpoint with 16 lanes, with opening hours based on the flight schedule. Passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before their flight departure time. For passengers enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program, dedicated lanes are available at the security checkpoint. MCI also offers Global Entry kiosks for expedited clearance for pre-approved passengers. Additionally, the airport participates in CLEAR, a program that provides expedited security clearance using eye and fingerprint scanning.
MCI Airport Lounges
Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
For eligible passengers, the recently opened Delta Sky Club at MCI offers an 11,000-square-foot space to relax and unwind before or between flights. Located at Concourse B, the Delta Sky Club features comfortable seating, refreshments, and other amenities.
Airport Dining and Drinks at MCI
MCI provides a wide range of dining options, with approximately 30 restaurants, cafes, and grab-and-go counters available. Most of these dining establishments are located inside the secure area, ensuring that passengers have access to delicious meals and refreshing beverages during their time at the airport.
MCI Airport Wi-Fi and Charging Points
Passengers and visitors at MCI can enjoy free Wi-Fi connectivity. Simply select “KCI_FREE_WiFi” from the available Wi-Fi connections. Charging stations are conveniently located throughout the terminal and at departure gates, ensuring that you can keep your devices powered up during your time at the airport.
MCI Airport Lost and Found
If you happen to misplace an item at Kansas City International Airport, contact the relevant department based on where you lost the item. For general areas such as restaurants, shops, toilets, and areas outside the security checkpoints, contact 816-243-5237. If the item was lost in the parking lots or on the red and blue buses, call 816-243-5201. For items lost at security checkpoints, submit an online inquiry to VMD Corp. For items lost at ticketing counters, departures lounges, or onboard an aircraft, contact your airline. Lastly, for items lost in the rental car facility or in a rental car, contact the respective rental company.
Additional Airport Information
Information Services
Throughout the airport, you will find Airport Ambassadors wearing red blazers. These Ambassadors are available to provide directions, answer questions, and assist with any inquiries you may have.
Baby Facilities
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To cater to the needs of traveling families, MCI offers nine nursing rooms located throughout the terminal and concourses. These nursing rooms can be found in various areas, including the southern area of the baggage claim, the international arrivals baggage claim area, and near the check-in desks in both the north and south areas. Additionally, nursing rooms are available at Concourse A and Concourse B.
Pet Relief Areas
For passengers traveling with pets, MCI offers three pet relief areas. These areas are located at Concourse A (near Urban Café and gate A8) and Concourse B (opposite gate B54).
Duty-free
MCI does not have any duty-free shops.
Smoking Areas
Smoking is not permitted inside the terminal. Designated smoking areas are available outside of the terminal for smokers.
Money
ATMs are conveniently located at the north and south check-in desks. However, MCI does not offer currency exchange services.
Medical Center
Unfortunately, there is no dedicated medical center at MCI. If you require medical assistance, contact airport personnel for guidance.
Luggage
MCI does not provide luggage storage facilities. Please make the necessary arrangements for your luggage before arriving at the airport.
Important MCI Phone Numbers
- Customer Service: 816-243-5237
- Lost and Found: 816-243-5237
Travel To and From MCI
Transportation Options
Kansas City International Airport commercial curb. Image Credit: Kansas City International Airport
From the commercial curb on level 1, passengers have various transportation options available, including public transport, ride shares, and shuttles.
MetroBus
RideKC bus route 229 operates daily, providing transportation between MCI and downtown Kansas City. Buses pick up passengers from the light blue area signposted 2A. To access maps and schedules, visit the RideKC website.
Shuttles and Limousines
Shuttle services and limousines can be arranged in advance or upon arrival at MCI. Information about shuttle companies operating from the airport can be obtained from the information counter in the arrivals area. Shuttles pick up passengers from the red area signposted 3J to 3N.
Rideshare
Rideshare operators like Lyft and Uber are available at MCI. Passengers can request rides from the purple area signposted 2K to 2N.
Taxis
Taxis can be found at Column 3C and charge a fare of $2.50 plus $2.10 per mile. A trip to downtown Kansas City typically costs around $53, excluding tip. If needed, you can also order a taxi by calling 816-243-2345.
Driving to MCI
Arriving From Downtown Kansas City
To reach MCI from downtown Kansas City, take US-169 N and merge onto I-29 N/US-71 N toward KCI Airport/St. Joseph. Continue on I-29 N and take exit 13 towards KCI Airport. Merge onto N. 120th St., which eventually becomes Cookingham Drive, providing access to the terminal.
Arriving From Overland Park
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If you’re coming from Overland Park, take Metcalf Avenue to I-635 N in Mission. Follow I-635 N and I-29 N/US-71 N, then take exit 13 towards KCI Airport. Merge onto N. 120th St., and continue onto Cookingham Drive for access to the terminal.
MCI Airport Parking Information
Kansas City International Airport parking. Image Credit: Kansas City International Airport
MCI offers a variety of parking options to suit different needs, including covered and uncovered parking for short-term and long-term stays.
Short-term Parking
Garage Parking
The garage parking lot, located outside the new terminal, provides the quickest and most convenient parking option. The garage has a maximum clearance of 8 feet 2 inches and offers 52 EV and 4 EV ADA charging spots on level 4, row E.
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| First 30 minutes | $1 |
| 30 to 60 minutes | $3 |
| 1 to 8 hours | $3 per additional hour |
| 8 to 24 hours | $25 total |
Long-term Parking
Surface Lot Parking
The surface lot offers uncovered parking closer to the terminal than the economy parking lot. Passengers can easily walk from the terminal parking lot to the surface lot.
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| First 30 minutes | $1 |
| 30 to 60 minutes | $3 |
| 1 to 8 hours | $3 per additional hour |
| 8 to 24 hours | $18 total |
Economy Parking Lot
The economy parking lots are located near I-29 and are serviced by blue shuttle buses that transport passengers to and from the terminal. Electric vehicle charging points are available in the economy lots. Economy parking has a flat fee of $7.50 per 24-hour period.
Valet Parking
Valet parking is available in the terminal garage lot and is signposted upon entry.
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 0 to 4 hours | $12 |
| 4 to 8 hours | $3 per additional hour |
| 8 to 24 hours | $32 total |
Pick-up or Drop-off Parking
MCI provides a cell phone waiting lot for free waiting up to 45 minutes at 680 Brasilia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64153. This allows visitors to wait until they receive a call for curbside pick-up.
Off-site and Hotel Parking
If you’re looking for more affordable parking options, daily parking rates start from $4 per day when booking through airportparkingreservations.com. Many hotels and off-site parking lots in the area offer shuttle services to and from the airport, providing a convenient and cost-effective parking solution.
Parking for Passengers With Disabilities
MCI offers parking spaces for passengers with disabilities in all airport-operated parking lots. Additionally, all airport buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and kneeling capabilities for accessibility.
Parking Contact Number
For general parking inquiries, contact 816-243-5870.
Car Rental at MCI Airport
The rental car center is conveniently located near the terminal at 1 Nassau Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153. Passengers can take the grey shuttle bus from the commercial curb outside the terminal to reach the rental car center. Several well-known car rental companies operate at the facility, providing a wide range of options for travelers.
MCI Airport Hotels
Kansas City Airport Marriott. Image Credit: Marriott
Whether you have an early flight, a layover, or simply want to relax before or after your journey, there are several hotel options available near MCI. The Kansas City Airport Marriott, located on airport property, offers a convenient location and a range of amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and complimentary airport shuttle service. Additionally, there are numerous 2- and 3-star hotels situated within 1.6 miles of the airport.
| Hotel | Address and Phone Number | Star Rating | Distance From MCI (Miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City Airport Marriott | 775 Brasilia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 30.8 | |
| KCI Lodge | 11300 NW Prairie View Rd., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 21.6 | |
| Extended Stay America – Kansas City – Airport | 11712 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 21.8 | |
| TownePlace Suites by Marriott Kansas City Airport | 11812 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 31.8 | |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites Kansas City Airport | 11820 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 31.8 | |
| Hampton Inn Kansas City-Airport | 11212 N. Newark Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 31.9 | |
| Hilton Kansas City Airport | 8801 NW 112th St., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 31.9 | |
| Holiday Inn Kansas City Airport | 11728 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 21.9 |
Top 3 Hotel Stays Using Points
For travelers looking to redeem points for their hotel stays, MCI offers a few excellent options. Here are the top three hotels near the airport that accept rewards points:
| Hotel | Address and Phone Number | Star Rating | Distance From MCI (Miles) | Loyalty Program | Point Redemption Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City Airport Marriott | 775 Brasilia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 30.8 | Marriott Bonvoy | From 19,500 Marriott Bonvoy points | |
| Hilton Kansas City Airport | 8801 NW 112th St., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 31.9 | Hilton Honors | From 20,000 Hilton Honors points | |
| Holiday Inn Kansas City Airport | 11728 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 | 21.9 | IHG One Rewards | From 20,000 IHG One Rewards points |
Final Thoughts
With uncongested ground and air space, Kansas City International Airport consistently ranks among the best airports for on-time performance. The new terminal, which opened in early 2023, offers a modern and efficient layout, ensuring seamless flight connections. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, MCI provides a comfortable and convenient experience for all passengers.
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