MCI opened in 1972, replacing the downtown Mid-Continent Field which often flooded from the Missouri River. The airport is arranged in three semi-circular terminals very similar to Dallas/Ft. Worth DFW. Let me say first off that of all airports I have ever visited, MCI is the most puzzling. This controversial design makes the airport OK for O & D traffic, but very poor as a hub due to long walks and no moving sidewalks between the terminals. This isn´t much of an issue as MCI is no longer a hub carrier for any airline with the demise of TWA and Vanguard. The oddest thing about MCI, which is derided by many passengers is that security is shared between 2-4 gates, instead of a departures area. This means that once inside a gate, there are no bathrooms or concessions and you must reclear security if you exit. This also means connecting passengers will have to go through security screening upon reaching their next flight. However, I understand this has changed on some gates except on some Southwest gates. At one time or another, MCI has been a hub for TWA, Vanguard, and Eastern, all since deceased. Now, Southwest controls the market. The only saving grace for passengers is that it is fairly quiet and boasts overcapacity.