The Importance of Kansas City International Airport in Kansas City, MO
Kansas City International Airport (KCI) is the principal international airport serving Kansas City and the surrounding metropolitan area in Missouri. It is the busiest airport in the state, with over 20 million passengers traveling through in 2019. KCI is home to several major airlines, including American, Delta, and United, who provide direct connections to over 50 destinations across the US, the Caribbean, and Latin America. KCI handles an incredibly diverse array of travelers from countries all around the world. The airport serves many business and leisure travelers, as well as military personnel, making it a major hub for transport both domestically and internationally. KCI is situated in Clay and Platte counties, about 15 miles from downtown Kansas City. The airport has excellent access to the city thanks to its location and easy access to highways. As one of the most centrally located and easily accessible airports in the country, the airport is an integral part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. Kansas City, MO can be seen here.
KCI is the economic lifeblood of Kansas City and the state of Missouri. The airport generates more than $3 billion in economic activity each year, supporting more than 23,200 jobs and generating more than $724 million in wages for the state. KCI is responsible for more than $6.4 billion in total economic output. The airport contributes significantly to local businesses, with over 7,500 vendors and 15,000 employees providing local goods and services. These include restaurants and cafes, hotels and accommodations, transportation providers, and retail stores. Click here to read about Platte Purchase Park in Kansas City, MO.
The airport also provides many benefits to the surrounding community. The aviation industry has a direct impact on the quality of life, providing jobs and helping to create a vibrant economy. Furthermore, aviation allows people to travel quickly and safely, facilitates the free flow of goods and services, attracts tourists, and fosters business development. The presence of a functioning airport is essential for a thriving local economy. KCI is also an engine for job growth and economic development in the region. As the state’s largest economic engine, the airport continues to be a major employer, with more than 15,000 permanent positions. These jobs range from professional positions to part-time roles, including pilots, air traffic controllers, ramp agents, and customer service agents.
KCI is also responsible for significant economic investment in the state. It is estimated that the airport generates more than $30 million in total business revenue each year, including parking and concessions. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for the safety of personnel and facilities at KCI. This includes conducting multiple checks and inspections of passengers, their baggage, and their cargo at the airport. The airport also has a multi-layered system of security and emergency response measures in place in case of any security threat.
Furthermore, KCI is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for travelers. The airport uses a variety of security measures to protect its facilities, including CCTV cameras, access control systems, and regular patrols by law enforcement officers. The airport also has a 24-hour incident control center, which is responsible for responding to any security incidents. KCI is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact and creating a sustainable airport. The airport has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including investing in energy-efficient lighting, installing solar panels on airport buildings, and utilizing hybrid vehicles in its ground support services.