KU is a ways from the KC airport…near an hour. Not sure if there’s regular shuttle service. Nebraska and Oklahoma would be two similar area schools where you can fly ‘closer’ with low cost after merit.
If he qualifies, the Honors program at KU is well reputed.
It’s a good solid state school like any other -in a great town. It is not geographically diverse vs the southern schools, if that will be a concern.
Good luck