Kansas City’s New and Improved Airport Terminal Opens this Spring. Here’s What Flyers Can Expect
KS – Landing in spring 2023, the new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) represents a total transformation of Kansas City’s air passenger experience. Travelers arriving to and departing from the Heart of America will be met with upgraded technology, a long list of locally inspired amenities, and convenient gate access. The new 39-gate terminal features a modern environment with dedicated arrival and departure levels, covered parking in an adjacent garage, moving walkways, and consolidated security checkpoints, all designed for easy navigation.
A spacious structure filled with natural light—and Kansas City’s signature fountains—promises an entirely new experience as travelers move through the terminal, and centralized customer service desks will readily provide guidance and additional resources. In addition, the terminal’s long list of upgrades extends all the way to your aircraft door. For example, the new MCI will feature glass passenger boarding bridges at all 39 gates, providing views of the surrounding airfield as you board your flight. This also makes the Kansas City International Airport the largest all-glass facility in the United States.
A parking garage with 6,100 spaces, a location adjacent to the terminal, and dedicated curb spaces for taxis, ride-sharing platforms, and shuttles are planned to maintain the airport’s convenient experience as travelers arrive and depart. The terminal will be the first in the United States with wireless electric bus charging, building on Kansas City’s existing environmental efforts and leadership—MCI was the first U.S. airport with electric buses. In addition, the new MCI will feature services and spaces designed to welcome all passengers, such as a service animal relief area, military USO, and nursing mother’s rooms.
The Variety KC Inclusive Family Play Zone offers simulated aircraft, accessible play spaces, and other experiences for children that will contribute to making the airport one of the most inclusive and accessible airport terminals in the country. Expect to feel a Kansas City connection the moment you land in the Heart of America: More than 80 percent of brands represented in the new MCI will be local to the KC region. Shops and restaurants like Charlie Hustle, Urban Café, and Stockyards Brewing Co. will greet travelers, as well as experiences that introduce iconic KC destinations like the City Market. The terminal’s lineup of concessions also features 17 woman-owned and minority-owned businesses.
Regarding barbecue, the terminal has big plans to deliver the legendary flavors for which KC is known. The Made for KC BBQ Championship is designed to award an area pitmaster the opportunity to take over a restaurant in Concourse B for one year. (Stay tuned for the results following the inaugural competition in June 2022.) In Concourse A, travelers will find the Meat Mitch BBQ dining experience. Resources on the American Royal World Series of Barbecue, the Barbecue Hall of Fame, and the Kansas City Barbecue Society will also be available within the terminal.