How to Get from Kansas City Airport to Westport

The most popular and convenient door-to-door option for most travelers. Both Uber and Lyft operate extensively at MCI, offering a balance of cost, speed, and convenience.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Collect Luggage: After landing, proceed to baggage claim.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi: Use the airport's free “KCI WiFi” to open your Uber/Lyft app.
3. Request Ride: Set your destination to your Westport hotel or address.
4. Go to Pick-up: Head to the Commercial Vehicle Lane on the lower level of your terminal. Follow the signs for “Rideshare” or “App-Based Ride”.
5. Meet Your Driver: Confirm the car’s license plate and model before getting in.

Cost Breakdown & Car Types:

Service Level	Estimated Cost to Westport	Best For
UberX / Lyft Standard	$35 - $50	1-3 passengers with standard luggage.
Uber Comfort / Lyft Preferred	$45 - $60	More legroom, newer cars, top-rated drivers.
UberXL / Lyft XL	$55 - $75	Groups of up to 6 or extra luggage space.

Pro Tip: Prices use dynamic surge pricing. Check both apps for the best rate. Wait times are typically under 5 minutes.

For a guaranteed, fixed-rate ride without needing an app, taxis are a reliable, though more expensive, choice. Private car services offer a premium experience.

Official Airport Taxis:

Taxis are available at designated stands on the lower level of each terminal. They operate on a flat-rate zone system from MCI. The fare to Westport (Zone 2) is a fixed rate, set by the city.

• Estimated Flat Fare: $55 - $70 (excluding tolls or gratuity).
• Travel Time: 30-45 minutes.
• Payment: Cash and major credit cards are accepted.

Private Car / Sedan Services:

For business travelers or special occasions, pre-booked private cars offer comfort and certainty. Companies like Kansas City Black Car or national services provide meet-and-greet options.

• Estimated Cost: $85 - $120+ one-way.
• Booking: Mandatory advance reservation online or by phone.
• Advantage: Driver meets you at baggage claim with a name sign.

A cost-effective compromise between public transit and private rides. Shared shuttles make multiple stops, so your travel time depends on the number of passengers.

Major Shuttle Providers at MCI:

• SuperShuttle / ExecuCar: A long-standing shared-van service. Book at the counter in the terminal or online.
• KCI Express: A local shuttle service offering shared and private rides.

What to Expect:

1. Purchase Ticket: At the ground transportation counter in baggage claim or online in advance.
2. Wait for Dispatch: You may wait 15-30 minutes for a van to fill.
3. Multiple Stops: The van will drop off other passengers at different hotels. Westport is usually among the later stops if you're coming from the airport.
4. Travel Time: Can range from 50 to 80 minutes door-to-door.

Estimated Cost: $25 - $40 per person one-way. Often cheaper for round-trip bookings.

The most budget-friendly option, ideal for solo travelers with light luggage and plenty of time. Kansas City's public bus system connects the airport to the city.

The Route: Plan for a Transfer

There is no single bus to Westport. The journey requires two buses:

1. Route 229 (KCI Express): Takes you from MCI Terminal B to 10th & Main St downtown. Runs every 30-60 minutes. Fare: $1.50.
2. Transfer Downtown: From 10th & Main, walk a few blocks to a stop for either the Main Max or the Troost Max bus line heading south.
3. To Westport: Take the southbound MAX bus to the stop near Westport Rd & Main St (approx. 15-20 minute ride).

Total Estimated Time: 90 to 110 minutes. Total Fare: $3.00 (requires two $1.50 fares).

Key Considerations: Check the KCATA website for current schedules. Service frequency drops significantly in evenings and on Sundays. Not practical with heavy luggage.

This table summarizes all options to help you make a quick decision based on your priority: speed, cost, or convenience.

Transport Method	Avg. Travel Time	Avg. Cost (One-Way)	# of Transfers / Stops	Best Suited For
Rideshare (UberX/Lyft)	30-45 min	$35 - $50	Direct	Best Overall for balance of speed & cost.
Taxi	30-45 min	$55 - $70	Direct	Reliable, no-app option; fixed fare.
Shared Shuttle	50-80 min	$25 - $40	Multiple shared stops	Budget-conscious travelers who don't mind a longer ride.
Public Bus (KCATA)	90-110 min	$3.00	1 transfer required	Cheapest Option for solo, light-pack travelers with time.
Private Car	30-45 min	$85 - $120+	Direct	Business travel, groups, or luxury service.

Timing is Everything

Rush Hour (Weekdays 7-9 AM & 4-6 PM): I-29 and Southwest Trafficway into the city can be heavily congested. Double the estimated travel time for any vehicle option. Consider taking the shuttle or bus to avoid paying for a rideshare stuck in traffic.

Luggage Considerations

If you have large skis, oversize musical instruments, or excessive baggage, rideshares (UberXL) or private vans are your only viable options. Shuttle vans and taxis have limited space. Buses have standard luggage racks.

Booking Strategy

For shuttles and private cars, book online in advance for the best rate and guaranteed availability, especially during major city events like the NFL Draft or Big 12 Tournament. For rideshares, you can book on arrival.

Late-Night Arrivals

If your flight lands after 11 PM, your options shrink dramatically. The public bus may not run. Shuttle service may be unavailable. Your only sure bets are taxi, rideshare, or a pre-booked private car. Request your rideshare while waiting at baggage claim.

Weather Impact

In winter, snow and ice can cause significant delays on all routes. Allow extra time and expect surge pricing on rideshares. Shuttles may be delayed or canceled.