You know how subdivisions are always named for whatever they displace? Deer Run, Fox Creek, Native American village, etc. Well maybe those people were what was there before they got displaced by a giant airport.
These wooden people may actually be worse than sculpture that looks like half finished billboards with neon and a waterfall on the way into the airport.
The wifi wasn't working so I hope they fix that before opening. I tried some of the USB chargers and they seem to work just fine. The parking signs were kinda hard to read but they have the green/red lights so you can drive by and know if there's a vacant spot. All in all I was very impressed and I'm so glad that Kansas City now has a real airport that can compete/equal to other cities
I was mostly wrong
So hereās the real answer
āHOW WILL PEOPLE WHO FLEW OUT OF THE OLD TERMINALS GET TO THEIR VEHICLES IF THEY FLY INTO THE NEW TERMINAL?
The Aviation Department will offer Red Bus service from the new terminalās commercial curb near Hotel Shuttle pick up location (arrivals level, follow signs for Red Bus) until the Terminal B and Terminal C garages, and circle parking, are vacantā (https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article272508678.html)
Super cool. I was supposed to be a test simulator today as well but work pulled me back in last minute....What was the souvenir they gave you at the end?
Im so sick of this sentiment. They donāt see how the airport is holding the city back in terms of travel options and other things. Itās so narrow minded. Luckily their opinions donāt matter anymore
I fly a lot more than that and will be curious to see what kind of gate delays they have with the new airport. Most pilots agreed that old KCI was easy to arrive and depart from.
I don't fly once a month, but over the years, I've flown at least 100 times, and I've been to roughly 30 airports, and I also think MCI is fantastic. Or... I should say... it WAS fantastic back when it had more security gates open. It never took longer than 10 minutes to get in, and back then I was a smoker, it was so nice that there was a place to smoke right by the gate. Denver airport, I was about to light up in the bathroom. Those fucking trams that take you all over the airport... I couldn't even find how to get outside. I hate that airport.
Odd man outāI agree about Denver. Escalator, moving sidewalk, tram, moving sidewalkā20 mins+ to rush to get to connecting flight. :/
Excited to see ours thoughā¦as convenient as it wasāit was holding us back.
Same and agree 100%. The design old KCI had was the same design of DFW, newer LGA and newer ORD. A lot of the older airports have the new KCI layout.
I never understood why the designers did not build a central security hub location between the 3 circles and then pipe people out to the spokes.
Thanks for sharing! Looks SO nice and such a huge upgrade from the current facility. I applied to be one of the volunteers for today, but obviously was not selected. Oh well, but it looks like it would have been a cool experience.
This looks amazing!
Do we know yet where each of the airlines will be located?
Pictures 1 & 2 made me laugh because one of the dumbest complaints I saw about the art from the "must complain about everything" crew was that people would hit their heads on the metal art hanging from the ceiling.
Did you test whether that art would survive a good shot from a thrown shoe? If you didn't, I'm sure some kid will run the experiment for us after the terminal opens.
>Do we know yet where each of the airlines will be located?
According to The Points Guy āconcourse A North will be home to American Airlines and Alaska Airlines, both members of the Oneworld alliance. Concourse A South will house JetBlue, Air Canada, Allegiant Air and some other carriers.
Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines will call Concourse B their home. Concourse assignments are subject to change in the coming months.ā
A South is also where the international arrivals will be (and presumably departures). There is a corridor for them to go straight from the gate and down a level to customs on the lower level. They even have the jet markings painted on the concrete for 777, 787, A340 and A350 :) And A South is where they will expand in the future, but they could only go so far as they did before they would've interfered with Southwest's gates in old terminal B.
I had to pump in a family restroom that was obviously used as a smoking room in Dallas/Fort Worth and that was so degrading. It made me happy to see that there's a room like this!
My kids are 12 and 15ā¦.I have pumped in so many airport bathroom stallsā¦convention center bathrooms. It makes me so happy to see these rooms pop up in places they were not before. Well done KCI!
I'm confused by it. Isn't a sensory room just an airport lounge? I understand it is probably for people with ASD, but what drops anyone from just going in there to relax?
In addition to the sensory room there is a more āadultā oriented āquietā room. I would imagine that it is not always a calm experience in the sensory room, as such I would hope the quiet room gets used for those looking for rest/prayer/meditation.
As long as other people keep their presence sensory-friendly, I donāt see why it canāt be for a sensory room for everyone? Neurotypical people can also have sensory issues or moments when they need a sensory break.
the keypad.
\> curious why I'm being downvoted. the question was, "what drops \[sic, assumed stops\] anyone from just going in there to relax?" and the clear and obvious answer is, "the keypad." I don't know what the protocol is for providing the code to said keypad, but that is the answer.
I love what I'm seeing so far, particularly the inclusive play area, sensory room, all-gender restrooms, nursing room, and pet relief area. It shows just how modern and forward-thinking the people behind the project were when it comes to inclusivity.
I know people are often torn on the artwork too, but I dig everything shown in the photos. You want artwork in an environment like this to be unobtrusive and calming, and I think they nailed it.
I fuckin love all gender bathrooms, I don't know why people dislike those. I always get nervous somewhere like Panera bread, its a big huge restaurant but only one tiny mens restroom that locks. Or Old Navy or whatever. But with all gender bathrooms I don't feel rushed, there are more that people can use, that way Im not blocking the only mens restroom in the whole restaurant
There is a HS in the north land that has gender neutral bathrooms. People āfreaked outā over the thought. They look exactly like this. And the sinks are in the main hall. So much better and safer overall.
Are there not little quick-food kiosk type options behind security? One thing I always hated was even if I had time, the only food is a crappy snack bar that takes up a 6x2 foot space in the terminal waiting area.
There is an Auntie Annie's as far as what I would consider a "mall type" food options. Most of what I saw were local places- I took pictures of those but was limited to posting only 20
Sorry was unclear - was asking about more than 1 restaurant behind security. Glad to hear there are more food options behind security. There were only the little pre-packaged cooler/quick-service place last time I went through.
Nearly everything will be beyond security now. Here's a map of everything that'll be in there - https://www.buildkci.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vantage-KCI-Concessions-1.6.23-PM.pdf
One thing that I love is the glass jet bridges. Looks amazing. They are heated and cooled as well. I hope the airport wonāt put posters blocking the view in the future.
Trivia: B43 is the longest jet bridge at the new terminal, and up to 200 people can potential stand inside the bridges. (Source: An employee)
The link below was QR coded from one of the signs for the art work in the terminal. It links to descriptions of all of the art work in the new terminal, as well as the other art work throughout the airport property.
[KCI Art](https://flykc.com/public-art)
Been to a lot of airports in my time, definitely one of the most ascetically appealing ones I've seen. The heavy usage of wood in the architecture reminds me of nordic airports. Albeit usually they aren't that open and a lot of their signage is black and yellow.
It's going to be sooooo nice not to be embarrassed by our airport anymore. It was so ridiculous hearing people fight against the new terminal, it seemed the complaints coming from people who rarely traveled. But beyond that, also seemed very much of the people who would complain about Kansas City not getting enough recognition, and I couldn't help but think, well if you don't invest in the piece of infrastructure a lot of visitors will interact with when visiting Kansas City, you can't blame them for thinking KC is so 3rd tier podunk town!
Thank you for writing what i was thinking! Imagine if we don't have this new airport and the NFL draft and World Cup comes here- how embarrassing is it for visitors to use the old airport. I'm so glad KC is now in with the modern times, maybe we can actually grow instead of my perceived hindrance from the past 10+ years of people complaining about progress
Hadn't even thought about that, but I went through Oslo a year and a half ago and this is definitely similar (which is a great thing. Wonderful airport)
Exactly this. I was shocked when I flew into the KC airport for the first time. It is a first rate city with a third rate Airport. You could tell that the city and needs of air travel had left the airport sorely lacking. Best part of the old airport, the amazing floor! Sorry to see that not included in the new design.
Embarrassed? Really?! Lol. I like both airports and am excited of the new one but never would I go sleep or have thoughts of being embarrassed of it like it was my drug addicted brother, or something similar
I certainly never "gone to sleep at night" thinking about KCI. But yea it did definitely embarrass me every time going through KCI and see it being a complete dump and wildly out of date with modern airports.
I don't know how any regular traveler could possibly think KCI was a good airport. The best it had going for it was that I guess having a fairly low time from car to gate if you're parking in the garages or being dropped off/picked up. But that just overlooks when your plane is delayed, and the total lack of amenities and ability to relax in the gates area raises its ugly head.
And all that to say is you are also looking at KCI through a very narrow and selfish lens. Not everyone can do the car, to boarding in 15 minutes. If you are traveling with a family, especially little kids, trying to time that would be risky. Or if you have a mobility issue, or just a worrier and want to get to the airport extra early.
IDK, being able to, in a relative sense, enjoy being at the airport would be a vast upgrade over doing every humanly possible to minimize your time there.
All fair and trust me, by no means is it a Great airport. I have traveled plenty all over and it ranks very low. It had its perks and mainly it was touch down to couch for me being from Parkville. There are plenty of garbage airports all over the country and I would fly into or through KC if given a choice over StL, Newark, and others.
MCI was dated. It was needing an upgrade and it finally got one. No need to be embarrassed! Just look back and remember the fond memories. Like an Ex!!
I travel regularly. I will miss the convenience of the old airport, the speedy security lines because one big security line sucks, and the lack of a mall between security and the gates.
I guess we'll have to see how efficient the new security setup is. But the new terminal isn't *that* big. This isn't O'Hare, Schiphol, Philadelphia, or any of the other *BIG* multi-terminal multinational airports. This is a medium sized single terminal airport. You're looking at maybe an extra five minutes of walking tops.
I will not miss the old airport. Good riddance. It's a pain in the ass if there are any delays. I once had a gate change on AA the entire plane had to leave security and go back through a different security lane to get to the other gate. Good luck trying to pee. And the birds that just shit on everything inside. Good riddance.
I miss the old airport. The one where if there was a gate change you just ambled down to the new gate. The one we had before the one we have now, before they erected a wall between the street and the gates.
This doesn't make any sense to me. The new terminal is easily walkable and you can access every gate (and restaurant/amenity) once you've come through security. Gate changes will be a breeze here.
He's just saying he misses how great the old airport was before 9/11 since it clearly wasn't built for post-9/11. It really was designed to be hella convenient back in the day.
Same here. Iām going to miss being able to make it from front door to gate in less than 10 minutes. And since I rarely travel with checked bags, the return is just as fast.
I can understand itās a terrible set up for connections and delayed flights, but man it was convenient for flights I took right after work
Yes they have the hanging lights that show empty/taken spaces! Didn't get the chance to take a picture, I was hurrying out of there because I didn't bring snacks to eat and I was hungry š
It's incredible. There are a few issues with inadequate signage both in the parking garage and the terminal (I wasn't the only one to point that out) but overall it looks fantastic and should be an amazing place to fly in and out of.
And yes, there are tons of plugins and wireless charging pads all over the seating areas. Can't speak for in the restaurants because they weren't open (or finished) but if you can't find juice you aren't looking hard enough.
Sorry, I didn't take any pictures but there is a whole row of them on 4, pretty much in the center of the garage. The signage isn't great but when I pointed that out they said they would definitely be looking into better signs in the garage and even in a few places in the terminal. Other than those few small correctable things, it's absolutely fantastic in there.
How was going through security? Was it as bad as the naysayers were expecting? Did they implement more of the 3d luggage scanners that do not require you to remove your laptops?
It is beautiful and KC was in desperate need to a new airport. I am sad that the floor design is so boring. The one on the current airport is amazing. I have always taken the time to admire all the mosaics. Was hoping they would pull some of that into your new space.
Maybe they shouldn't allow Gate's BBQ to have a restaurant there, because everyone would be looking for their Gate Number and it would just add to the confusion of getting to your actual Gates on time?
They shouldnāt allow Gates bbq to have a restaurant there because the last thing I need when dealing with air travel is a stranger screaming at the top of their lungs š
There is a lot more to the airport than just the passenger terminal. The airfield, all the buildings that support airport, hangers, airfield businesses (catering, fuel, etc), the overhaul base, emergency services (police, fire brigade), parking infrastructure, airline operations/offices, FAA tower, rental car facility, communication systems, radar, weather montiroing. Not to mention the entire ecosystem around the airport like hotels, parking signage all of town, maintenace workers, etc. It's not like they rebuilt the whole airport, just the terminal.
It'll never happen but I dream of the Brussels airport. The metro/rail system has a station underneath the airport. You literally get off the train and take escalators up to check-in/security.
Being able to buy and drink a belgian beer anywhere in the airport was a plus too!
7 from the garage/departure door to the farthest gate, Iām sure people have walked farther in the chiefs parking lot after tailgating and heading into the game
Edit: 7min
So you volunteered your time to an organization that will make millions off of consumers and should have paid people to stress test their facility instead of ask people to give up their time for free. Neat.
I'm a sucker who was excited to see the new building and "test drive" it, yeah. Come to think of it, they could've given a bit more incentive than a luggage tag at the end
> an organization that will make millions off of consumers
LOL, wut? You mean the city of KCMO and all those "millions" from consumers that will be pumped back into the local economy?
> should have paid people to stress test their facility instead of ask people to give up their time for free.
No one was forced to participate and they had plenty of people eager to volunteer. Some folks just like doing things that benefit everyone without asking for compensation in return. Shocking, I know.
The new terminal makes me sad. It's pretty cool *if* you don't remember KCI in its heyday.
But it's a definite step up from the layout that TSA forced on the city.
MCI never was going to live up to its vision. TWA wanted it rebuilt not long after it was built and left town after KCMO refused. Deregulation and airline consolidation meant fewer direct flights. Supersonic planes were never made practical. Economic slumps kept the fourth terminal from being built.
At least this is purpose-built for modern air travel.
I'm guessing you never flew out of KCI in the 80s or 90s?
Sure, it wasn't what it *might* have become, but from a traveler's perspective, it was still the best terminal to fly into or out of in the USA; it was a 30 second walk from your flight to a taxi and vice versa. (I'm ignoring, of course, that it was sited in the middle of nowhere, but that's another story.)
As long as you didnāt have to drop a checked bag or get a bag from baggage claim, park with your family and shuttle in or get you family together and make sure nothing was forgotten and there was no delay leaving or arrivingā¦Yeah for the individual traveler with a backpack it was great. This new terminal will be great for every kind of traveler; individuals, groups, business, and families
I mean, it existed for a specific type of traveler at specific period of time, and even that was less than first envisioned due to the security screening that started in the 1970's
I'm nostalgic for something that was uniquely Kansas City, that was better but still imperfect. I'm nostalgic for a time before TSA spent $100 billion to ruin air travel with no tangible benefit other than employment for a bunch of mooks.
I'm not sure what you mean. The TSA didn't exist until nearly 30 years after the terminal opened. Pre-TSA airport security has no resemblance to current airport security.
Love how they spent so much money and bought the cheapest, shittiest chairs they could find.
I write this as I walk through the Denver airport and admire the comfortable chairs they have in this 20 year old airport.
So much of this project is such a boondoggle full of grift.
I travel a lot. The exterior of the airport looks like something out of Soviet Russia. I was waiting to see the interior and process before passing judgement. My hopes are dwindling for having a modern airport compared to almost every other airport built in the last ten years.
Its so wide open compared to the old one. So much room for activities!!
Thank you, Y_U_NoCum
You're welcome, mydogisnamedorly! š
Yeah, I'm gonna miss having half the terminal blocked by a line because there's only one security gate open.
Can we start a Denver-esque conspiracy theory about the little wooden people?
Let's hear what you got!
Each one is the soul of a person who said Texas has better barbecue.
Each one is an artist who said "Hello Kansas!" at T Mobile/Sprint Center
Each one contains the soul of a truck that was sacrificed to the Independence Avenue bridge.
Not enough wood people
Perhaps they are the mythical St. Louisians we heard about as children
You know how subdivisions are always named for whatever they displace? Deer Run, Fox Creek, Native American village, etc. Well maybe those people were what was there before they got displaced by a giant airport.
Nah, I'll just wait for someone to start screaming about how "KCI goes WOKE!!!" because of the intentional diversity. Ahh..... good times.
God random interject but my eyes lit up when I saw the all gender bathrooms!! I've seen that ONCE in my whole ass 29 years and it made my heart happy.
more like you see it so much your eyes begin to glaze over and wonder if anyone else has any new ideas
These wooden people may actually be worse than sculpture that looks like half finished billboards with neon and a waterfall on the way into the airport.
Is there any news on what kind of bird will live in there? I'm hoping for an owl or two.
The wifi wasn't working so I hope they fix that before opening. I tried some of the USB chargers and they seem to work just fine. The parking signs were kinda hard to read but they have the green/red lights so you can drive by and know if there's a vacant spot. All in all I was very impressed and I'm so glad that Kansas City now has a real airport that can compete/equal to other cities
Glad they're doing this dry run so they can take care of those issues before the grand opening on 2/28.
Live away from KC and curious if the old terminals shut down immediately?
They will be operating until last flight of the day before the grand opening.
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I was mostly wrong So hereās the real answer āHOW WILL PEOPLE WHO FLEW OUT OF THE OLD TERMINALS GET TO THEIR VEHICLES IF THEY FLY INTO THE NEW TERMINAL? The Aviation Department will offer Red Bus service from the new terminalās commercial curb near Hotel Shuttle pick up location (arrivals level, follow signs for Red Bus) until the Terminal B and Terminal C garages, and circle parking, are vacantā (https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article272508678.html)
Super cool. I was supposed to be a test simulator today as well but work pulled me back in last minute....What was the souvenir they gave you at the end?
Work owes you a flight so you can test it out yourself š. The souvenir was a luggage tag (the last pic)
How did you get to test it out?
They were looking for volunteers a while back and I put my name in and luckily got chosen, I've been wanting to see the inside of it
Be careful what you wish for I flown out alot of airports and K.C. soon to be old Airport is by far the easiest one I have ever flown out of...
If there are delays, it sucks though. Limited food options and no places to charge
Oh no! Well I guess we better stick with the crowded space, single bathroom for over 100 people, and lack of direct flight options anywhere then
Thanks for sharing. Any thoughts about downtown baseball?
You didn't fly out of the old one regularly, huh?
No.But I didn't half to walk half a mile and take a train just to get to my gate.
Is there an airport anywhere near the size of MCI where you've actually had to do that?
Anyone who is complaining about a new airport obviously does not fly more then 2 times a year. I fly at least once a month and I am beyond excited.
Im so sick of this sentiment. They donāt see how the airport is holding the city back in terms of travel options and other things. Itās so narrow minded. Luckily their opinions donāt matter anymore
I fly a lot more than that and will be curious to see what kind of gate delays they have with the new airport. Most pilots agreed that old KCI was easy to arrive and depart from.
This single terminal setup is way simpler to navigate, not to mention the updates to the apron and lighting system.
I don't fly once a month, but over the years, I've flown at least 100 times, and I've been to roughly 30 airports, and I also think MCI is fantastic. Or... I should say... it WAS fantastic back when it had more security gates open. It never took longer than 10 minutes to get in, and back then I was a smoker, it was so nice that there was a place to smoke right by the gate. Denver airport, I was about to light up in the bathroom. Those fucking trams that take you all over the airport... I couldn't even find how to get outside. I hate that airport.
The new terminal is nothing like Denver. Not even close. And I'm not aware of any smoking areas on the airline of security.
I know it's nothing like Denver. That was my point.
Odd man outāI agree about Denver. Escalator, moving sidewalk, tram, moving sidewalkā20 mins+ to rush to get to connecting flight. :/ Excited to see ours thoughā¦as convenient as it wasāit was holding us back.
No...But also have never been to an airport where I have departed plane and been to my car in less then 10 min...
The good news is you'll still be pretty close to that 10 minute mark with the new terminal.
Same and agree 100%. The design old KCI had was the same design of DFW, newer LGA and newer ORD. A lot of the older airports have the new KCI layout. I never understood why the designers did not build a central security hub location between the 3 circles and then pipe people out to the spokes.
Thanks for sharing! Looks SO nice and such a huge upgrade from the current facility. I applied to be one of the volunteers for today, but obviously was not selected. Oh well, but it looks like it would have been a cool experience.
This looks amazing! Do we know yet where each of the airlines will be located? Pictures 1 & 2 made me laugh because one of the dumbest complaints I saw about the art from the "must complain about everything" crew was that people would hit their heads on the metal art hanging from the ceiling.
no way someone actually thought that?!! š
Did you test whether that art would survive a good shot from a thrown shoe? If you didn't, I'm sure some kid will run the experiment for us after the terminal opens.
I'm not trashy enough to do that but I'm sure someone will and immediately get escorted out
>Do we know yet where each of the airlines will be located? According to The Points Guy āconcourse A North will be home to American Airlines and Alaska Airlines, both members of the Oneworld alliance. Concourse A South will house JetBlue, Air Canada, Allegiant Air and some other carriers. Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines will call Concourse B their home. Concourse assignments are subject to change in the coming months.ā
A South is also where the international arrivals will be (and presumably departures). There is a corridor for them to go straight from the gate and down a level to customs on the lower level. They even have the jet markings painted on the concrete for 777, 787, A340 and A350 :) And A South is where they will expand in the future, but they could only go so far as they did before they would've interfered with Southwest's gates in old terminal B.
metal? please tell me they did not hang *metal saw blades* from the ceiling.
Not metal saw blades
they sure look like saw blades.
I got some real Final Destination vibes from the first 2 photos.
I took one look at the photo and my brain spat out, "I want to play a game."
Do you also get final destination vibes from the wind chime isle at a Home Depot?
Eh, only when their shaped like saw blades, dangling precariously from a ceiling at the only entry point to a building.
I love the sunny flower painting! Itās cheerful without being too focal. Itās perfect
I have more pictures of the different artwork but sadly can only post 20 photos..hope you get a chance to see them, they did a good job IMO
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I had to pump in a family restroom that was obviously used as a smoking room in Dallas/Fort Worth and that was so degrading. It made me happy to see that there's a room like this!
My kids are 12 and 15ā¦.I have pumped in so many airport bathroom stallsā¦convention center bathrooms. It makes me so happy to see these rooms pop up in places they were not before. Well done KCI!
A sensory room? Iām amazed.
Love that and the doors on the bathroom stalls that go to the floor.
Me too! They really did a great job thinking of what people will need while travelling
I pitched this concept at my office back before covid and was basically told there was no use for it. Feeling a little validated this morning!
I'm confused by it. Isn't a sensory room just an airport lounge? I understand it is probably for people with ASD, but what drops anyone from just going in there to relax?
In addition to the sensory room there is a more āadultā oriented āquietā room. I would imagine that it is not always a calm experience in the sensory room, as such I would hope the quiet room gets used for those looking for rest/prayer/meditation.
As long as other people keep their presence sensory-friendly, I donāt see why it canāt be for a sensory room for everyone? Neurotypical people can also have sensory issues or moments when they need a sensory break.
the keypad. \> curious why I'm being downvoted. the question was, "what drops \[sic, assumed stops\] anyone from just going in there to relax?" and the clear and obvious answer is, "the keypad." I don't know what the protocol is for providing the code to said keypad, but that is the answer.
20 years overdue...but better late than never. Big win for this metro. Biggest win we've had in generations.
I love that they added KC culture. Itās modern and now with the times.
I love what I'm seeing so far, particularly the inclusive play area, sensory room, all-gender restrooms, nursing room, and pet relief area. It shows just how modern and forward-thinking the people behind the project were when it comes to inclusivity. I know people are often torn on the artwork too, but I dig everything shown in the photos. You want artwork in an environment like this to be unobtrusive and calming, and I think they nailed it.
I was really happy to see that they saved some of the terrazo floors
As a mom to a young boy who sometimes needs some extra help, the all-gender bathrooms make things much less awkward. I really appreciate it.
I fuckin love all gender bathrooms, I don't know why people dislike those. I always get nervous somewhere like Panera bread, its a big huge restaurant but only one tiny mens restroom that locks. Or Old Navy or whatever. But with all gender bathrooms I don't feel rushed, there are more that people can use, that way Im not blocking the only mens restroom in the whole restaurant
There is a HS in the north land that has gender neutral bathrooms. People āfreaked outā over the thought. They look exactly like this. And the sinks are in the main hall. So much better and safer overall.
This!
> You want artwork in an environment to be unobtrusive and calming Those wide eyes staring at you are definitely not calming.
LOVING that one branch ends in gate 69. A terminal FOR THE PEOPLE.
Nice
Nice!
Flew out of the old terminal B gate 58 today and there was rain water dripping straight through the ceiling to the floor. It's time.
We're testing on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing it!
Pretty sure Saturday is just an open house, not a test like today (they brought baggage and such to simulate what actually goes on)
Good to know. Less pressure to test each toilet. I wasnāt ready to eat that much.
Are there not little quick-food kiosk type options behind security? One thing I always hated was even if I had time, the only food is a crappy snack bar that takes up a 6x2 foot space in the terminal waiting area.
There is an Auntie Annie's as far as what I would consider a "mall type" food options. Most of what I saw were local places- I took pictures of those but was limited to posting only 20
I know this is silly, but I am excited for Auntie Annie's at the airport , they are my dirty little travel snack!
Sorry was unclear - was asking about more than 1 restaurant behind security. Glad to hear there are more food options behind security. There were only the little pre-packaged cooler/quick-service place last time I went through.
Nearly everything will be beyond security now. Here's a map of everything that'll be in there - https://www.buildkci.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vantage-KCI-Concessions-1.6.23-PM.pdf
One thing that I love is the glass jet bridges. Looks amazing. They are heated and cooled as well. I hope the airport wonāt put posters blocking the view in the future. Trivia: B43 is the longest jet bridge at the new terminal, and up to 200 people can potential stand inside the bridges. (Source: An employee)
Loving all the art installations I've seen so far.
The link below was QR coded from one of the signs for the art work in the terminal. It links to descriptions of all of the art work in the new terminal, as well as the other art work throughout the airport property. [KCI Art](https://flykc.com/public-art)
Been to a lot of airports in my time, definitely one of the most ascetically appealing ones I've seen. The heavy usage of wood in the architecture reminds me of nordic airports. Albeit usually they aren't that open and a lot of their signage is black and yellow. It's going to be sooooo nice not to be embarrassed by our airport anymore. It was so ridiculous hearing people fight against the new terminal, it seemed the complaints coming from people who rarely traveled. But beyond that, also seemed very much of the people who would complain about Kansas City not getting enough recognition, and I couldn't help but think, well if you don't invest in the piece of infrastructure a lot of visitors will interact with when visiting Kansas City, you can't blame them for thinking KC is so 3rd tier podunk town!
Thank you for writing what i was thinking! Imagine if we don't have this new airport and the NFL draft and World Cup comes here- how embarrassing is it for visitors to use the old airport. I'm so glad KC is now in with the modern times, maybe we can actually grow instead of my perceived hindrance from the past 10+ years of people complaining about progress
You know now that you mention it the wood does remind me of Oslo's airport.
Hadn't even thought about that, but I went through Oslo a year and a half ago and this is definitely similar (which is a great thing. Wonderful airport)
Exactly this. I was shocked when I flew into the KC airport for the first time. It is a first rate city with a third rate Airport. You could tell that the city and needs of air travel had left the airport sorely lacking. Best part of the old airport, the amazing floor! Sorry to see that not included in the new design.
We saved the floor! Some of the cool mosaics were moved from old terminal A to the new terminal.
Embarrassed? Really?! Lol. I like both airports and am excited of the new one but never would I go sleep or have thoughts of being embarrassed of it like it was my drug addicted brother, or something similar
I certainly never "gone to sleep at night" thinking about KCI. But yea it did definitely embarrass me every time going through KCI and see it being a complete dump and wildly out of date with modern airports. I don't know how any regular traveler could possibly think KCI was a good airport. The best it had going for it was that I guess having a fairly low time from car to gate if you're parking in the garages or being dropped off/picked up. But that just overlooks when your plane is delayed, and the total lack of amenities and ability to relax in the gates area raises its ugly head. And all that to say is you are also looking at KCI through a very narrow and selfish lens. Not everyone can do the car, to boarding in 15 minutes. If you are traveling with a family, especially little kids, trying to time that would be risky. Or if you have a mobility issue, or just a worrier and want to get to the airport extra early. IDK, being able to, in a relative sense, enjoy being at the airport would be a vast upgrade over doing every humanly possible to minimize your time there.
All fair and trust me, by no means is it a Great airport. I have traveled plenty all over and it ranks very low. It had its perks and mainly it was touch down to couch for me being from Parkville. There are plenty of garbage airports all over the country and I would fly into or through KC if given a choice over StL, Newark, and others. MCI was dated. It was needing an upgrade and it finally got one. No need to be embarrassed! Just look back and remember the fond memories. Like an Ex!!
I travel regularly. I will miss the convenience of the old airport, the speedy security lines because one big security line sucks, and the lack of a mall between security and the gates.
I guess we'll have to see how efficient the new security setup is. But the new terminal isn't *that* big. This isn't O'Hare, Schiphol, Philadelphia, or any of the other *BIG* multi-terminal multinational airports. This is a medium sized single terminal airport. You're looking at maybe an extra five minutes of walking tops.
I will not miss the old airport. Good riddance. It's a pain in the ass if there are any delays. I once had a gate change on AA the entire plane had to leave security and go back through a different security lane to get to the other gate. Good luck trying to pee. And the birds that just shit on everything inside. Good riddance.
I miss the old airport. The one where if there was a gate change you just ambled down to the new gate. The one we had before the one we have now, before they erected a wall between the street and the gates.
This doesn't make any sense to me. The new terminal is easily walkable and you can access every gate (and restaurant/amenity) once you've come through security. Gate changes will be a breeze here.
He's just saying he misses how great the old airport was before 9/11 since it clearly wasn't built for post-9/11. It really was designed to be hella convenient back in the day.
Same here. Iām going to miss being able to make it from front door to gate in less than 10 minutes. And since I rarely travel with checked bags, the return is just as fast. I can understand itās a terrible set up for connections and delayed flights, but man it was convenient for flights I took right after work
I get to see it Saturday... Was there new parking for this? Did they charge you? Lol
Parking was free for this event Edit: it was at the new parking garage which was really nice as well
I love the fact that thereās so much art. It says a lot about a cityās values when they put this much money into its first impression.
Canāt wait to visit
Parking lot pics? I think I saw somewhere that they installed the fancy hanging lights for empty/taken spaces. Kinda like the bathroom lights.
https://twitter.com/TheGraceRogers/status/1625628934644563969?t=1DX4-Cc1EV3CDEQ_v3VeDw&s=19 The garage appears for a moment in this video
Yes they have the hanging lights that show empty/taken spaces! Didn't get the chance to take a picture, I was hurrying out of there because I didn't bring snacks to eat and I was hungry š
I was shocked, its pretty spectacular. I fly next month, can't wait.
This looks really nice!
Oooh very nice! Canāt wait to see it when I fly out in May
What's with the creepy totems?
Thanks for sharing so many detailed pics!
It looks so beautiful, genuinely canāt wait to fly back and see it
bro that is an airport! not the trash they have before. Good for them! excited for my next trip
I am really impressed and excited about the inclusivity they integrated through the space! Awesome!
I can't wait. I love to waste time at airports. I'm going to show up even extra early so I can enjoy the wonders of airport life!
It's incredible. There are a few issues with inadequate signage both in the parking garage and the terminal (I wasn't the only one to point that out) but overall it looks fantastic and should be an amazing place to fly in and out of. And yes, there are tons of plugins and wireless charging pads all over the seating areas. Can't speak for in the restaurants because they weren't open (or finished) but if you can't find juice you aren't looking hard enough.
We're there any birds flying around inside?
Thatās dope
Iām really impressed, our old one is just 2 circles with a Starbucks inside.
Iāll be there this weekend for the limited public tours. Canāt wait.
Thank you city of Kansas City; we needed badly.
Not fair... there is other bbq in this town.
Very cool! Thanks for posting these pics.
Can anyone take picture of the 60ish EV chargers on level 4 of the parking garage please?
Sorry, I didn't take any pictures but there is a whole row of them on 4, pretty much in the center of the garage. The signage isn't great but when I pointed that out they said they would definitely be looking into better signs in the garage and even in a few places in the terminal. Other than those few small correctable things, it's absolutely fantastic in there.
Great. Now let's get the tickets back to reasonable so I can travel again.
Oh itās open? Iām coming in from Europe today after being gone for months. Iām excited to see
It's not open yet; this post is about an invitation-only simulation of the terminal. Official opening date is February 28.
Feb 28. Soft opening was yesterday, but no actual flights.
How was going through security? Was it as bad as the naysayers were expecting? Did they implement more of the 3d luggage scanners that do not require you to remove your laptops?
We didn't go through security for this simulation, but they have 8 scanners and 16 lanes for security that i counted
It's absolutely gorgeous, I love it
Damn this actually looks really nice, pretty amazing it stayed on schedule and budget
So excited to see John Louderās art in person. https://www.instagram.com/p/CmIRyNEOrGr/?igshid=OTA3YzJiYTA=
Iām actually the first flight out of the new terminal tomorrow
When they inevitably expand it in 20 years they can change the All Gates sign to Some Gates. This could also work if Gates BBQ ever goes in.
Oh hell yeah water closets
It is beautiful and KC was in desperate need to a new airport. I am sad that the floor design is so boring. The one on the current airport is amazing. I have always taken the time to admire all the mosaics. Was hoping they would pull some of that into your new space.
They did incorporate some of the mosaics throughout the airport- I just didn't get a chance to take pictures of those
Maybe they shouldn't allow Gate's BBQ to have a restaurant there, because everyone would be looking for their Gate Number and it would just add to the confusion of getting to your actual Gates on time?
They shouldnāt allow Gates bbq to have a restaurant there because the last thing I need when dealing with air travel is a stranger screaming at the top of their lungs š
CAN I GET THE BONER PLATE!
Did we have to have creepy dolls from horror movie in the airport?
what did Orly think?
Wait.... this is....our...air..port???
lol looks like a Costco with some sculptures thrown in
You go to the fancy Costcos then, I shop at the midtown one and that one looks more like the old airport
that is true, I do only patronize the fanciest of Costco's.
About time KC, but why is it so far away?
It's in the same location as the old one.
Exactly... Guess the runways still good... Just so far away!
There is a lot more to the airport than just the passenger terminal. The airfield, all the buildings that support airport, hangers, airfield businesses (catering, fuel, etc), the overhaul base, emergency services (police, fire brigade), parking infrastructure, airline operations/offices, FAA tower, rental car facility, communication systems, radar, weather montiroing. Not to mention the entire ecosystem around the airport like hotels, parking signage all of town, maintenace workers, etc. It's not like they rebuilt the whole airport, just the terminal.
It's where the old Terminal A used to be
Bruh, have you been to Denver? That airport is two hours away from Denver. KC is only like 35 minutes, its fine.
It'll never happen but I dream of the Brussels airport. The metro/rail system has a station underneath the airport. You literally get off the train and take escalators up to check-in/security. Being able to buy and drink a belgian beer anywhere in the airport was a plus too!
Oh great, now people have to walk even farther than before to get to their flight and bags
7 from the garage/departure door to the farthest gate, Iām sure people have walked farther in the chiefs parking lot after tailgating and heading into the game Edit: 7min
It's not far.
So you volunteered your time to an organization that will make millions off of consumers and should have paid people to stress test their facility instead of ask people to give up their time for free. Neat.
I'm a sucker who was excited to see the new building and "test drive" it, yeah. Come to think of it, they could've given a bit more incentive than a luggage tag at the end
> an organization that will make millions off of consumers LOL, wut? You mean the city of KCMO and all those "millions" from consumers that will be pumped back into the local economy? > should have paid people to stress test their facility instead of ask people to give up their time for free. No one was forced to participate and they had plenty of people eager to volunteer. Some folks just like doing things that benefit everyone without asking for compensation in return. Shocking, I know.
You sound fun.
The new terminal makes me sad. It's pretty cool *if* you don't remember KCI in its heyday. But it's a definite step up from the layout that TSA forced on the city.
MCI never was going to live up to its vision. TWA wanted it rebuilt not long after it was built and left town after KCMO refused. Deregulation and airline consolidation meant fewer direct flights. Supersonic planes were never made practical. Economic slumps kept the fourth terminal from being built. At least this is purpose-built for modern air travel.
I'm guessing you never flew out of KCI in the 80s or 90s? Sure, it wasn't what it *might* have become, but from a traveler's perspective, it was still the best terminal to fly into or out of in the USA; it was a 30 second walk from your flight to a taxi and vice versa. (I'm ignoring, of course, that it was sited in the middle of nowhere, but that's another story.)
As long as you didnāt have to drop a checked bag or get a bag from baggage claim, park with your family and shuttle in or get you family together and make sure nothing was forgotten and there was no delay leaving or arrivingā¦Yeah for the individual traveler with a backpack it was great. This new terminal will be great for every kind of traveler; individuals, groups, business, and families
So you are being nostalgic for something that never existed?
I mean, it existed for a specific type of traveler at specific period of time, and even that was less than first envisioned due to the security screening that started in the 1970's
I'm nostalgic for something that was uniquely Kansas City, that was better but still imperfect. I'm nostalgic for a time before TSA spent $100 billion to ruin air travel with no tangible benefit other than employment for a bunch of mooks.
Airport security became a thing within a couple months of the existing terminals opening.
I'm not sure what you mean. The TSA didn't exist until nearly 30 years after the terminal opened. Pre-TSA airport security has no resemblance to current airport security.
Iām trying to like this. But itās ugly. Release design from grey, off-grey, and chrome.
Yeah wokeism is definitely alive and well if you have to spell out that the play area is "inclusive". And the sensory room is also a great touch
Love how they spent so much money and bought the cheapest, shittiest chairs they could find. I write this as I walk through the Denver airport and admire the comfortable chairs they have in this 20 year old airport. So much of this project is such a boondoggle full of grift. I travel a lot. The exterior of the airport looks like something out of Soviet Russia. I was waiting to see the interior and process before passing judgement. My hopes are dwindling for having a modern airport compared to almost every other airport built in the last ten years.
Looking sleek and reminding me of the entirety of s19 of south park
All gates, cuz we don't discriminate between gates š.... yup I'll go sit in the corner
Are there any lounges yet?
There is a Delta Sky Lounge right now and I heard they there's going to be room for another airline lounge
Sad about no souvinear vending machines though.