Originally Posted by
Global_Hi_Flyer
MCI is a small clone of DFW. Except that the DFW concourses and check in area are wider, allowing for a security separation barrier between the secure concourses and the check-in area.
I dislike MCI, especially with the security configuration (it's private security at MCI, operating to TSA standards). I went through there a LOT a couple of years ago when I was commuting from DC-SAT (it was/is a YX hub, and at the time YX was a GREAT choice).
Some areas have concessions inside (I think WN has limited concessions, and US did), but most of the offerings are outside the secure area. Even the airline clubs are outside.
Were the airport to be more heavily trafficed it would be a great candidate for bulldozing a terminal and starting from scratch (ala the new AA terminal at DFW).
It's my understanding that MCI was "built-to-order" for TWA back in the day and was supposed to be TWA's "Airport of Tomorrow". (Modeled after something TWA had started at JFK). Originally it was something of a revolutionary design for an airport. The basic idea was that you could park your car inside the circle (garages are within the last 10 or so years... used to be a simple parking lot) and walk directly to your gate... As a result, it makes a fantastic in/out airport. Sucks if you have to change flights, however.
The DFW airport (opened as DFW in 1973) was actually modeled after MCI (opened in 1972).
As to the original question. There is a simple sandwich/beverage cart inside of the DL gates. (I believe there is a similar cart inside security at each gate area).
There
*USED* to be a nice quiet Crown Room inside the DL gates as well, but that was closed a little over a year ago. (I'd love to see it return, but I'm not holding my breath).