Despite gaining two points, Kansas City International Airport dropped two spots in 2016’s J.D. Power & Associates consumer airport satisfaction study ranking for medium-sized airports.

KCI ranks 27th out of 34 airports in the range.

While rating “among the best” for overall security checkpoint experience, KCI received "the rest” for terminal facilities, baggage claim and terminal shopping.

Courtesy J.D. Power & Associates

“Some of the lower scores in Kansas City are in the food beverage and retail, which we see at smaller airports,” said J.D. Power & Associates Director of Airport Studies Michael Taylor.

Taylor pointed to consumers giving KCI high scores for ease of access to and from the terminals due to its size but said there is a downside as well.

“Conversely if you’re there for a long time there isn’t a lot to do. So it’s a real yin and yang thing for the airport,” said Taylor.

Indianapolis International Airport took first place in the category.

The airport opened a new, single $1.1 billion terminal in 2008.

Taylor reported high consumer scores for IND’s aesthetic, plentiful restaurant options, and localized flare.

“They have rotating antique race cars on display which are fascinating to look at, and you know you’re in Indianapolis,” said Taylor. “One of the things that KCI can do is bring the local into the airport. Obviously when I think Kansas City I think barbecue, and I’m not too sure if there is really good Kansas City barbecue you can get at the KCI airport but that would be one thing to start with.”

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Brian Abel can be reached at brian.abel@kshb.com.

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