Background
History
When it debuted on November 21, 1972, the three-terminal Kansas City International Airport was considered to be at the forefront of modern aviation. With runways designed for jumbo jets and visions of supersonic travel, it was an early example of “drive to your gate,” design, the ultimate in airport convenience.
The terminals’ once revolutionary design is now dated, space is cramped, and amenities no longer meet travelers’ expectations. Added security requirements have also complicated the travel process by further reducing available space.
Over the years, there have been several initiatives to renovate the existing terminals or perhaps even construct an entirely new terminal. Master Plans completed in 1995 and 2009 both recommended a single terminal.
A more in-depth study was conducted in 2013 by the City of Kansas City, Missouri City Council that included passenger goals, objectives and preferences. The Mayor’s Airport Terminal Advisory Group, the Aviation Department and its airline partners concluded a new, consolidated, single-terminal design would be the best option to bring KCI Airport up to modern standards and amenities.
In November 2017, Kansas City, Missouri voters overwhelmingly approved construction of a single airport terminal with 76 percent in favor.
New and Improved
At just over one million square feet, the Kansas City International Airport Single Terminal is the largest single infrastructure project in the City’s history. It will have a profound and lasting economic impact on the region in the form of new jobs, opportunities for local and small businesses, and a first-class traveler experience for airport users.
Completed in February 2023, with 39 gates and the ability to expand to 50 in the future, the project includes a 6,300-space parking structure along with landside and airside improvements.
The new terminal supports more efficient airline operations and allows airport users to enjoy the convenience of modern air travel in a facility with updated technology and amenities, close parking, spacious gate areas, and ample food and beverage options.
Kansas City is being recognized more and more as a world-class city. The new KCI Airport Single Terminal greets visitors with a warm Kansas City welcome and send hometown travelers off in style.
Key Presentations and Reports
- Use and Lease Agreement
- U.S. DOT FAA Finding of No Significant Impact and Record of Decision
- Final Environmental Assessment, Section 106 Evaluation and Section 4(f) Statement
- Exhibit K – Overview
- Exhibit K – Phase 1
- Programmatic Agreement – National Historic Preservation Act
- Construction Master Monitoring Plan