Travelers' Alert: Masks Still Required At Kci Airport

As of November 2021, masks were required by the federal government for anyone on an airport shuttle, in terminals, or on a plane at Kansas City International Airport (KCI). Security agents will ask travelers to briefly lower their masks at security checkpoints. Masks were also required on flights by individual airlines.

Masks required on airport shuttles, in terminals, and on planes

Masks are required by the federal government for anyone on an airport shuttle, in terminals, or on a plane departing from Kansas City International Airport (KCI). Security agents will ask travellers to temporarily lower their masks at security checkpoints for identification purposes. This mandate was implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a significant decrease in air travel, with only 8,000 travellers passing through KCI daily during the pandemic, compared to 30,000 before.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and airport officials recommend that travellers arrive at KCI at least two hours before their scheduled departure to account for potential delays caused by increased traffic and COVID-19 safety measures. It is also advised to familiarise yourself with the new traffic pattern due to the construction of the new terminal. All traffic now utilizes a new traffic pattern, and drivers will encounter roundabouts at Terminal C before reaching Terminal B.

In addition to wearing masks, travellers are advised to utilize online check-in options whenever possible to avoid crowded check-in areas. When checking luggage, consider taking only carry-on items to bypass the check-in counters and baggage claim upon arrival. If checking luggage is necessary, using a skycap service at the curb may be more efficient.

For a smooth travel experience through KCI Airport, it is important to stay updated with the latest guidelines and recommendations provided by the airport and health authorities.

Masks must be lowered at security checkpoints

Masks are required at Kansas City International (KCI) Airport. The federal government mandates that masks must be worn by anyone on an airport shuttle, in terminals, or on a plane. However, security agents will ask travellers to lower their masks at security checkpoints. This is to verify identification and ensure security.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented several measures to enhance security and streamline the screening process. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure to account for the additional time needed for security checks. Masks are just one aspect of the screening process, and it is important to comply with the requests of security agents to ensure a smooth and efficient process for all travellers.

When preparing for security screening, travellers should have their photo ID and boarding pass readily available. They will also be required to remove liquids and large electronics, such as laptops, from their carry-on baggage. Other items, such as shoes, outerwear, and bulky jewellery, must also be removed, and pockets should be emptied. These measures are in place to facilitate the screening process and enable security agents to conduct thorough checks efficiently.

It is important to note that the mask mandate at KCI Airport is subject to change, and travellers are advised to stay updated with the latest requirements before their travel. The TSA is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all passengers, and these measures are implemented with that goal in mind. By following the instructions provided by security agents, travellers can do their part in maintaining a safe and efficient screening process.

Masks required by federal government

Masks are required by the federal government for anyone on an airport shuttle, inside terminals, or on a plane. This mandate was extended through April 18, 2022, and requires everyone inside airports, on passenger aircraft, and on public buses to wear a mask. If a traveller does not have a mask, they can ask an airport employee for one. Security agents will ask travellers to briefly lower their masks at security checkpoints when showing identification.

The Kansas City Aviation Department recommends that travellers arrive at the airport terminals two hours or more before departure, and two and a half hours before international flights. This is due to new roadway patterns to and from the terminals, which include roundabouts, and the federal requirements to wear masks inside terminals, buses, and aircraft.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) predicts that 20 million people will travel by air during the week of Thanksgiving, a 40% increase from 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Kansas City Aviation Department warns that a lot has changed at the airport since the previous year, largely due to the construction of the new terminal.

The TSA also provides recommendations for travellers to ensure a smooth security screening experience. For example, travellers are reminded to have a valid ID and boarding pass ready and to remove liquids and large electronics, such as laptops, from their carry-on baggage. Additionally, travellers are advised to remove their shoes, outerwear, and bulky jewellery, and to empty their pockets before proceeding through security.

Masks required while inside the airport

Masks are required by the federal government for anyone inside Kansas City International Airport (KCI). This includes when you are in any terminal, on an airport shuttle, or on a plane. Security agents will ask you to briefly lower your mask at security checkpoints for identification purposes.

The mask mandate is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a decrease in air travel. In 2020, Kansas City International Airport saw around 8,000 travelers per day, a significant drop from the pre-pandemic number of around 30,000.

The pandemic also led to changes in airport procedures. The check-in and security processes remain similar to pre-pandemic times, but masks are now mandatory in certain areas.

In addition to mask requirements, there are other important guidelines to follow when traveling through KCI. It is recommended that travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure to account for potential crowds and busy check-in areas. Online check-in is advised whenever possible, and only essential luggage should be checked in to avoid the check-in counters and baggage claim.

Furthermore, travelers should be aware of the types of items allowed in carry-on luggage. Liquids, gels, and other non-solid items must be packed in checked bags. Solid foods, such as cakes and other baked goods, are allowed through security checkpoints.

For a smooth travel experience through KCI, it is important to follow the mask mandate and stay updated with the latest guidelines and recommendations provided by the airport and health authorities.

Masks required on flights

As of April 2022, masks are no longer required on planes in the US. This follows a federal judge's ruling that US health agencies do not have the authority to uphold a national transportation mask mandate. However, some airlines and airports may still require passengers to wear masks. It is important to check the requirements of your airline and the airports you will be travelling through before your flight.

Airlines

• Delta: Masks are optional for customers and employees on all US domestic flights. Masks are also optional for international travel unless required by the origin or destination country's laws.
• Alaska Airlines: Masks are optional on flights. Masks continue to be required on flights to and from Canada.
• American Airlines: Masks are no longer required for customers and team members on US domestic flights. Masks may still be required based on local ordinances or international destinations' requirements.
• JetBlue: Masks are optional on flights.
• Southwest: Masks are no longer required on flights or in the airport, but passengers are welcome to wear them if they prefer. Masks may be required in some cities or states.
• United Airlines: Masks are no longer required on domestic flights or at US airports. Masks may still be required on select international flights depending on the arrival country's requirements.

Airports

Some US airports have dropped their mask requirements, including:

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
• Denver International Airport
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport
• Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport
• Los Angeles International Airport
• Newark Liberty International Airport
• Orlando International Airport
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
• San Francisco International Airport
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

However, masks are still required in some airports, including:

• Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway airports
• LaGuardia Airport in New York
• New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport
• Philadelphia International Airport

Frequently asked questions