Are MCI and KCI airports the same?

Kansas City International Airport is referred to as both MCI and KCI. The official IATA code for the airport is MCI as the airport was originally called Mid-Continent International Airport.

Is MCI in Kansas or Missouri?

Kansas City International Airport is located in the state of Missouri. The airport is located 15 miles northeast of downtown Kansas City, MO.

What airlines fly out of Kansas City Airport?

The following airlines operate out of Kansas City International Airport: Terminal B Allegiant Air Delta Air Lines Southwest Airlines Terminal C Air Canada Alaska Airlines American Airlines Apple Vacations Frontier JetBlue Airways Spirit Airlines United Airlines Vacation Express Viva Aerobus

Does Southwest fly to Kansas City?

Southwest Airlines is based out of Terminal B at Kansas City International Airport. Southwest Airlines offers curbside check-in and operates flights from gates 32 to 45.

How early should I get to the Kansas City airport?

Kansas City International Airport recommends that you have completed check-in 2 hours before your scheduled flight. Contact the airline to see how busy check-in can be so that you can allow the necessary time for queues.

Is MCI open 24 hours?

MCI is open 24 hours. However, the security checkpoints, check-in counters, shops, and restaurants are open during specific hours.

Kansas City International Airport [MCI]

Kansas City International Airport (MCI), or KCI, as it’s commonly referred to, served 11.7 million passengers in 2019, making it the second-busiest year in the airport’s history. MCI currently operates out of 2 separate terminals, but construction is underway to consolidate activity and increase capacity in 1 central terminal. Completion is planned for early 2023.

MCI is primarily a domestic airport, with just a few international routes including Mexico and Canada.

Here’s what you need to know about getting around MCI.

Quick Info

Airport: Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
Terminals: 2 terminals — B and C
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: 47 domestic and 4 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

Terminal B

Terminal C

Air Canada
Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Apple Vacations
Frontier
JetBlue Airways
Spirit Airlines
United Airlines
Vacation Express
Viva Aerobus

MCI Airport Terminals

Kansas City International Airport has 2 terminals — B and C — that are in the shape of incomplete circles. Access roads run along the front of Terminals B and C, with Terminal B served by Rome Circle and Terminal C served by Beirut Circle. Both terminals are connected by International Circle and Bogata Circle, with easy access from I-29 and I-435.

Parking can be found directly in front of the terminals and between them along the connecting roadway. Although the terminals are not connected, passengers can ride the regular shuttle buses that operate from outside the terminals.

Terminal B

Terminal B is on the west side of the airport and operates mostly regional and domestic flights. Allegiant, Delta, and Southwest are based out of Terminal B’s 19 gates numbered B31 to B35, B37 to B41, B43, B45, B50, B52, and B56 to B60.

Most of the facilities for arrivals and departures are based on the lower level, including the ticketing desks, security checkpoints, and departure gates. Some shops and restaurants are located on the upper level.

Terminal C

Terminal C operates domestic and international flights and is located on the east side of the airport. Airlines operating from this terminal include American, Alaska, Spirit, and United.

As with Terminal B, most of the facilities are on the lower level, including baggage claim, access to ground transportation, and security checkpoints. Terminal B has 22 gates numbered C61 to C64, C67 to C69, C72, C73, C76 to C79, C81 to C85, C87, C88, and C90.

Inter-terminal Transport

Terminals B and C are not connected, so passengers must ride the on-airport shuttle bus for terminal connections. Red shuttle buses operate between the terminals and the circle parking garages and run every 20 to 30 minutes. Blue buses operate between the terminals and then onto the economy parking lots every 20 to 30 minutes.

All shuttles stop outside the terminal buildings and are indicated with overhead signs.

Security and Customs at MCI

MCI has 4 security checkpoints in total across the airport, with 2 in Terminal B located near gates 31 to 35 and 58 to 60. Terminal C also has 2 checkpoints near gates 61 to 69 and gates 76 to 85.

The opening hours vary according to the flight schedule. Usually, this is at least 2 hours before the first flight departure, but if you plan to arrive earlier, be sure to check with your airline.

TSA PreCheck

MCI has TSA PreCheck lanes at all 4 security checkpoints. Opening hours vary, so input your day of travel and arrival time into the TSA website for the schedule.

MCI has a TSA Enrollment Center in Terminal C near gate C90, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Global Entry

MCI has Global Entry kiosks for expedited clearance of pre-approved passengers in Terminal C.

The airport has a Global Entry Enrollment Center in Terminal C near gate 90, open Monday and Friday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enrollment on Arrival is also available daily from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.

MCI Airport Lounges

There are no airport lounges at Kansas City International Airport, though an 11,000-square-foot Delta Sky Club is expected in the new terminal (under construction).

Airport Dining and Drinks at MCI

MCI has around 20 restaurants, cafes, and grab-and-go food counters, with most located inside the secure area.

MCI Airport Wi-Fi and Charging Points

MCI provides free Wi-Fi for passengers and visitors to both terminals. To connect, select “KCI_FREE_WiFi” from the available connections. If you have any issues, you can contact the support line at 816-243-3176 or dial 3176 from the white courtesy phones that are available around the terminals.

Charging Stations: You’ll find some charging points located around the terminals and at the departure gates.

MCI Airport Lost and Found

If you lose an item at Kansas City International Airport, contact the relevant department depending on where you misplaced the item:

General Areas Such as Restaurants, Shops, Toilets, and Any Areas Outside the Security Checkpoints: Call 816-243-5237
Parking Lots or Red and Blue Buses: Call 816-243-5201
Security Checkpoints: Submit an online inquiry to AKAL Security
Ticketing Counters, Departures Lounges, and Onboard an Aircraft: Contact your airline
Rental Car Facility or in a Rental Car: Contact the rental company

Additional Airport Information

Information Services

Airport Ambassadors can be found throughout the airport to provide directions and provide assistance with inquiries. Ambassadors are recognizable by their red blazers.

Baby Facilities

MSI has 2 nursing rooms located in Terminal C. There’s one inside the holding room for flights with Alaska, American, Frontier, and Spirit, and the other is in the United departure lounge. Family restrooms are available in both terminals.

Pet Relief Areas

MSI has 5 pet relief areas outside the secure area. These outdoor grassy areas can be found at either end of Terminals B and C.

Passengers flying with Alaska, American, Frontier, or Spirit have access to an additional pet relief area located inside the secure area of Terminal C. This is located near gate C83.

Duty-Free

There are no duty-free shops at MCI.

Smoking Areas

There are no smoking lounges at MCI. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas outside of the terminal.

Money

ATMs are located outside of the secure area in these locations:

Concourse B:
- Near the Boulevard Brew Pub
- Near the Southwest Airlines baggage carousels
- Near the Southwest Airlines check-in desks
Concourse C:
- Near the Budweiser Brew House
- Near the KCI Brew Pub
- Near the United Airlines check-in desk

Medical Center

There is no dedicated medical center at MCI.

Luggage

MCI does not have any luggage storage facilities.

Important MCI Phone Numbers

Customer Service: 816-243-5237

Parking: 816-243-5870

Lost and Found: 816-243-5237

Travel To and From MCI

Transportation Options for MCI

MetroBus

RideKC bus route 229 operates between MCI and downtown Kansas City daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. The fare for a single journey is $1.50. More information on maps and schedules can be found online.

Shuttles and Limousines

Shuttles can be arranged in advance or on arrival at MCI. Check out these shuttle companies that operate from the airport or visit the information counter in arrivals for more information. Limousine services are also available.

Rideshare

Rideshare operators such as Lyft and Uber operate from Kansas City International Airport and are permitted to pick up from any door at the arrivals area. When prompted, input whether you require pick-up from Terminal B or C and the door number.

Taxis

Courtesy telephones are located in the baggage claim areas to arrange a taxi. You can also get in touch with the operator by calling 816-243-2345. Taxis charge $2.50 plus $2.10 per mile with a trip to downtown Kansas City costing around $53, excluding tip.

Driving to MCI

Arriving From Downtown Kansas City

Take US-169 N and use the left lane to merge onto I-29 N/US-71 N toward KCI Airport/St. Joseph. Keep right to continue on I-29 N and take exit 13 towards KCI Airport. Keep left and merge onto N. 120th St. and continue onto Cookingham Drive for access to the terminals.

Arriving From Overland Park

Take Metcalf Avenue to I-635 N in Mission and follow I-635 N and I-29 N/US-71 N. Take exit 13 towards KCI Airport. Keep left and merge onto N. 120th St. and continue onto Cookingham Drive for access to the terminals.

MCI Airport Parking Information

Kansas City International Airport Parking map — Kansas City International Airport parking. Image Credit: Kansas City International Airport

MCI has plenty of short-term and long-term parking options, depending on your requirements and budget.

Garage Parking

The 2 garage parking lots are located outside of Terminals B and C and offer the quickest and most convenient parking. The maximum clearance for garage B is 7 feet 4 inches and garage C is 8 feet 2 inches. Parking costs $3 per hour up to a daily maximum of $23.

Circle Parking

Circle parking lot E3 is located between the 2 terminals, and the E4 parking lot is to the east of E3. Passengers can walk between these parking lots and the terminals or ride the red shuttle bus. Parking fees are $3 per hour up to a daily maximum of $15.50.

Economy Parking

The economy parking lots are located on the outskirts of the airport property near I-29 and blue shuttle buses transport passengers to and from the terminal as walking is not possible. Electric vehicle charging points are available in economy lots B and C. Economy parking charges a flat daily fee of $7.50.

Park Air Express Parking

The Park Air Express parking lot is located off airport property at NW Prairie View Rd. Passengers can take advantage of a range of services such as electric vehicle charging, valet, and car washing. A courtesy shuttle transports passengers between the parking lot and the terminal. Parking rates are $2 per hour up to a daily rate of $9.

Hot Tip: Shuttle drivers can assist you with your luggage at the Park Air Express parking lot, and there’s complimentary bottled water, coffee, and newspapers.

Pick-up or Drop-off Parking

MCI has a cell phone waiting lot located at 680 Brasilia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64153. Visitors may wait for free for up to 45 minutes until they receive a call for curbside pick up.

Off-site and Hotel Parking

Parking at Kansas City International Airport is not the most expensive we’ve seen, but it is possible to book something a little cheaper.

Daily parking is available from $5 per day when you book with airportparkingreservations.com. These hotels and off-site parking lots operate courtesy buses to and from the airport so they can provide a great affordable option.

Parking for Passengers With Disabilities

Parking for passengers with disabilities is available in all airport-operated parking lots and can be found in section E3 of the circle lots.

All airport buses are accessible with wheelchair lifts and kneeling capabilities.

Parking Contact Number

General parking inquiries: 816-243-5870

Car Rental at MCI Airport

The rental car center is located a short distance from the terminals at 1 Nassau Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153. Passengers need to ride the grey shuttle bus to the rental center that departs from outside the terminals.

These companies are available at the rental car facility:

ACE: 816-464-2100
Alamo: 816-464-5151
Avis: 816-243-5760
Budget: 816-243-5757
Dollar: 800-800-4000
Enterprise: 816-464-2500
Fox: 816-464-2100
Hertz: 816-243-5765
National: 816-243-5770
Payless: 816-464-2100
Thrifty: 816-464-5600

Hot Tip: Check out these credit cards that include rental insurance as a benefit and avoid paying insurance fees with your rental agency.

MCI Airport Hotels

The Kansas City Airport Marriott is located on airport property on the edge of the Berlin Reservoir. There’s a good selection of 2- and 3-star hotels in the area, located around 1.6 miles from the airport.

Hotel	Address and Phone Number	Star Rating	Distance From MCI (Miles)
Kansas City Airport Marriott	775 Brasilia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-464-2200	3	0.8
KCI Lodge	11300 NW Prairie View Rd., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-464-5082	2	1.6
Extended Stay America – Kansas City – Airport	11712 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-270-7829	2	1.8
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Kansas City Airport	11812 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-464-0525	3	1.8
Fairfield Inn & Suites Kansas City Airport	11820 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-464-2424	3	1.8
Hampton Inn Kansas City – Airport	11212 N. Newark Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-464-5454	3	1.9
Hilton Kansas City Airport	8801 NW 112th St., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-891-8900	3	1.9
Holiday Inn Kansas City Airport	11728 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-801-8400	2	1.9
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Kansas City Airport	11828 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-464-2423	3	1.9
Days Inn by Wyndham Kansas City International Airport	11120 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-787-1206	2	1.9
Candlewood Suites Kansas City Airport	11110 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-886-9700	3	1.9
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kansas City Airport	11831 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-270-1200	2	1.9
Best Western Plus Kansas City Airport – KCI East	11130 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-891-9111	3	1.9
Four Points by Sheraton Kansas City Airport	11832 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-464-2345	3	2
Super 8 by Wyndham Kansas City Airport	11900 NW Plaza Cir., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-470-0155	2	2
Quality Suites Kansas City International Airport	11951 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-925-0060	3	2.1
Hilton Garden Inn Kansas City Airport Mo	10920 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-321-1900	3	2.1
Residence Inn Kansas City Airport	10300 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-741-2300	3	2.8
Drury Inn & Suites Kansas City Airport	7900 NW Tiffany Springs Pkwy., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-880-9700	3	3

Top 3 Hotel Stays Using 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 816-464-2200	3	0.8	Marriott Bonvoy	From 15,500 Marriott Bonvoy points
Hilton Kansas City Airport	8801 NW 112th St., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-891-8900	3	1.9	Hilton Honors	From 20,000 Hilton Honors points
Holiday Inn Kansas City Airport	11728 N. Ambassador Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153 816-801-8400	2	1.9	IHG One Rewards	From 20,000 IHG One Rewards points

Less than 1 mile from the airport, the Kansas City Airport Marriott boasts a great location along with key amenities like a pool, fitness center, and a complimentary airport shuttle. Award nights at the hotel start at 15,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

At the Hilton Kansas City Airport, you’re within 5 miles of the airport and Zona Rosa Town Center via their complimentary 24-hour shuttle service. Guests will enjoy amenities like an indoor and outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Hilton no longer publishes an award chart, but you can expect award nights at the hotel to cost from 20,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

The Holiday Inn Kansas City Airport offers fast access to surrounding attractions like Jowler Creek Winery and Vineyard for wine tasting or shopping at Zona Rosa. The hotel includes a free shuttle, high-speed wireless Internet, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. Award nights at the hotel cost from 20,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Hot Tip: If you’re looking to top off your points to stay at any of these options, see our guides on the best ways to earn more Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, or IHG One Rewards points.

Final Thoughts

MCI consistently ranks as among the best airports for on-time performance due to uncongested ground and air space and few weather-related delays or closures. Efficiencies are set to improve further with the new state-of-the-art terminal planned for early 2023. The construction will use a popular layout of 1 central terminal and subsequent concourses to allow seamless flight connections inside the secure area.