Inclusive Play Area for KCI Airport New Terminal Unveiled

The Kansas City Aviation Department has partnered with Variety KC to develop an inclusive play area for children that will make the New Terminal at Kansas City International Airport one of the most inclusive and accessible airport terminals in the U.S. The New Terminal is slated to open in spring 2023.

At a news conference Jan. 28, City of Kansas City, Missouri leaders and Variety KC unveiled plans for the Variety KC Inclusive Family Play Zone. On hand to reveal the innovative design were Councilwoman Heather Hall, KCMO City Manager Brian Platt, Director of Aviation Pat Klein, Variety KC’s Inclusion Revolution lead sponsor, Hy-Vee representatives, and Variety KC families and kids.

Variety KC Play Zone features will include a simulated aircraft and air traffic control tower, sensory boards, inclusive exercise videos, and a Kansas City skyline mural featuring inclusive partners. This inclusive area will allow kids to play with other kids and to learn about the air travel experience.

Millions of annual residents and visitors will arrive and depart from the New Terminal at KCI, immediately seeing and understanding the priority of the “#inclusionrevolution” in KC. Variety KC is beginning its fundraising efforts to support the play area to help make it inclusive for ALL Travelers. Opportunities for corporate sponsorships are open. A $50,000 pledge (paid over two years at $25,000) will receive a plaque at the play area site.

Also at the event, City Manager Brian Platt displayed the importance of access by taking on the “Variety Day in a Wheelchair Challenge."