The airlines that fly out of Kansas City International Airport reached a deal Wednesday on the price of the new, single terminal estimated to open in early 2023.
Councilwoman Jolie Justus, who is running for mayor, announced the deal on Twitter, but details on the deal won't be revealed until Thursday morning's airport committee meeting.
Great news! Just received confirmation that airlines have an agreement regarding #NewKCI. Airline reps will be at Airport Committee hearing tomorrow morning to discuss.
— Jolie Justus (@joliejustus) February 6, 2019
Southwest Airlines is KCI’s largest carrier, followed by American Airlines and Delta. Southwest has represented the group in previous discussions with the council and a representative from Southwest is expected to testify to the airport committee.
Smaller carriers, like Allegiant and Spirit, balked at the $1.6 billion price tag late last year. Eventually, the group of airlines asked the council and Mayor Sly James for a second opinion on the building's cost. The airlines will ultimately bear the cost.
The city council has held off on approving a development agreement until the airlines coalesced around the cost.
Lisa Rodriguez is a reporter and the afternoon newscaster for KCUR 89.3. Follow her on Twitter @larodrig.
