The Kansas City International Airport is an all-civilian airport that was built in 1954 - 1956. It represented the combination of two smaller airports that had been partially destroyed in a 1951 flood. It is considered a mid-sized airport, and primarily serves as a hub and transit point for Southwest Airlines and Midwest Connection.
The airport was built in an unincorporated area off a highway . . .right across from a tourist attraction commemorating the death of Buck Barrow, brother of the infamous Bonnie & Clyde robbery duo. From an RV court and camping area, a three runway air complex grew. The airport now serves more than 500 flights daily.
The airport has expanded continually since it was founded. The most recent renovations were completed in 2004. While the new renovation improved the look and weather sealing of the airport, they neglected to address a basic issue for most travelers. Bathrooms were neglected. Not neglected in the sense that they are not up to date . . . .they are just in the wrong place. Travelers with children will want to be sure everybody goes to the bathroom before going through security as there are limited facilities available after the checkpoints.
Kansas City International Airport is served by just one Kansas City Transit route, 129x. This bus runs 18 times a day from 6 am to 6 pm. Outside of those hours driving or taking a cab are the best options although some private bus services are available.
Voters have consistently defeated measures to add light rail service to the area. Airport and regional authorities are lobbying for link rail connections into downtown, but so far nothing has come of it. Additional activity will take place around this issue in 2009, so travelers should be watchful for pamphleteers and advertisements on the subject.
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