Many people drive to Kansas City. However, depending on where you're coming from, that can add hours or even days of traveling time. If you prefer to fly, Kansas City International Airport (MCI) is the closest airport to the downtown core. This airport is 20 minutes from downtown and services hundreds of flights daily. Since Kansas City is located in the center of the country, many flights departing from major cities have layovers at Therefore, you. You shouldn't have too much trouble finding a flight option. The city's central location also means no inbound or outbound flight within the continental US should be longer than three hours. If you want to travel to Kansas City on a chartered plane, your closest airport option is Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport. It's a small airport typically used for privately owned aircraft and is a short five-minute drive from the city center.