KCI expecting nearly 13 percent surge in holiday travel

Airlines are expecting a nearly 13 percent surge in passenger traffic at Kansas City International Airport during the holiday season.

The Kansas City Aviation Department on Friday said it is projecting that more than 715,000 passengers will arrive and depart through KCI’s two terminals between now and Jan. 5. On peak days, about 37,000 travelers will use KCI, the department said.

The busiest days during the holiday stretch are expected to be Dec. 22 and Dec. 23, while the lightest travel is expected on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Travelers are advised to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure, or two hours for international travel. Those meeting flights can use the new cellphone waiting lot near the Federal Aviation Administration air traffic control tower in the middle of the KCI complex.

Passengers should also check flykci.com for flight status.

KCI has more than 23,000 parking spaces in the garage, circle and economy lots. Economy parking costs $7.50 a day, and a coupon for a free day in those lots can be downloaded at flykci.com.

With harsh winter weather expected in many parts of the country, the Aviation Department said most U.S. airlines are waiving change fees for travel this weekend.

This story was originally published December 16, 2016 at 11:42 AM with the headline "KCI expecting nearly 13 percent surge in holiday travel."