HomeWHICHNavigating Kansas City International Airport (MCI) with Ease

Navigating Kansas City International Airport (MCI) with Ease

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
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:

  • 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
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
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.

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Level 2 — Departures

Kansas City International Airport 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

Delta Sky Club MCI Seating with Bar
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

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.

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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
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

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
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
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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
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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