Originally Posted by
BearX220
They had airport security in 1972, too. MCI's layout didn't make much sense then or now, especially as it was conceived as a potential transfer hub (the MC standing for Mid Continent). The designers prioritized minimal steps from dropoff curb to aircraft, but cost themselves a fortune in requiring multiple security checkpoints. Dumb then, dumb now.
MCI had a phased opening, passengers started flying as early as 1969. Its design dates from the mid-late 1960s. VP Spiro Agnew hosted the official opening in the summer of 1972.
Airport screening of all passengers started in late 1972 to early 1973.
Citation
President Nixon ordered all airports into compliance in December 1972. The proximate cause was hijackings. Before then security personnel (FAA) were performing traditional police work in airports, what we today might call profiling. There were no security checkpoints.
MCI was the last major airport built under the old paradigm.