About Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport

Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport (MKC) is Kansas City's close-in airfield, set on a sharp bend of the Missouri River just across from downtown. It has no regular scheduled passenger flights. Today it serves general aviation, corporate jets, air taxi operators and flight training, while airline passengers use Kansas City International Airport (MCI).

A Kansas City Airport with Deep Airline History

The field was dedicated in 1927 by Charles Lindbergh as Kansas City Municipal Airport. In the early decades of commercial flying it was a major airline centre and the headquarters base of Trans World Airlines (TWA). Scheduled airline service later moved to Kansas City International, and the downtown field shifted to business and private aviation.

Location Near Downtown Kansas City

The airport's big advantage is proximity. It sits on the north side of the Missouri River, a short drive from the downtown business district, with good highway access. For private and charter flyers, this makes it far more convenient than the main airport further north.

Facilities for Pilots at Wheeler Downtown Airport

The Kansas City Aviation Department runs the Charles E. McGee General Aviation Terminal, along with self-service fuel and short-term tie-down parking for visiting aircraft. Private operators on the field offer further services for business aircraft. There are two runways.

Aviation Museums at the Kansas City Downtown Airport

Aviation fans can visit the National Airline History Museum, which keeps historic airliners at the field, and the TWA Museum, which is housed at the airport and tells the story of the airline that once called Kansas City home.

Flying to Kansas City on a Scheduled Airline

If you are travelling on a commercial airline, search for flights to Kansas City International Airport (MCI) instead. From there, downtown Kansas City is reached by car, taxi or rideshare.

Tips for Visiting Kansas City's Downtown Airport

If you plan to visit a museum, check opening days in advance, as hours can be limited. Charter passengers should confirm which operator and terminal they are using before arriving.

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