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New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport MSY Airport Traveler Guide

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MSY Airport Insights & Guide

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Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Hylke Robben
Updated:
Key MSY Airport Topics:

Getting to Know MSY Airport

Welcome to our New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport Online Guide. As the primary airport serving the vibrant city of New Orleans, MSY is known for its unique blend of southern charm and modern amenities. This guide will help you navigate the airport's unique features, whether you're departing, connecting, or arriving. If you're planning to explore other airports around the globe, we recommend you check out our worldwide airport list for more comprehensive insights and information.

WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through the serene and uninterrupted ASMR walk at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY):

Airport News

New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport (MSY) continues to make strides in enhancing its services and reputation. The airport has been recognized as the best airport in North America for the third consecutive year, reflecting its commitment to providing an exceptional passenger experience. Additionally, Breeze Airways has announced new flights, including a new route to Las Vegas and the reinstatement of flights to Los Angeles, offering travelers more options and convenience. (sources: Biz New Orleans, Travel and Tour World)

The airport has four terminals: Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and the Main Terminal. Concourse B has 13 gates and serves Southwest Airlines. Concourse C has 14 gates and serves Delta Air Lines and its partners. Concourse D has 13 gates and serves American Airlines and its partners. The Main Terminal has 30 gates and serves various airlines, including United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Alaska Airlines.

To navigate the airport terminals, follow the signs and directions to your airline's departure gate. If you are unsure which terminal your airline is located in, check the airport's website or ask an airport staff member for assistance. The airport also offers shuttle buses to transport passengers between terminals.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Louis Armstrong Airport has four terminals: Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and the Main Terminal. To get between the terminals, passengers can use the complimentary shuttle bus service provided by the airport. The shuttle buses run every 20 minutes and can be found outside of each terminal. The ride between terminals takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

If you prefer to walk, there are covered walkways that connect the Main Terminal to Concourse B and Concourse C. The walk time between the Main Terminal and Concourse B is approximately 5 minutes, while the walk time between the Main Terminal and Concourse C is approximately 10 minutes. Unfortunately, there is no covered walkway that connects the Main Terminal to Concourse D, so passengers will need to use the shuttle bus service or take a taxi.

Tips from MSY Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MSY-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"If you're at MSY, know that the Main Terminal is your hub for most airlines, but if you're flying Southwest, you'll be at Concourse B. The signage is clear, but if in doubt, ask any staff—they're super helpful." — Jamie T., Metairie, LA, January 2024

"I always use the airport's interactive map on my phone. It helps locate everything from gates to eateries without wandering aimlessly." — Luis R., Kenner, LA, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The Airport-Downtown Express (E-2) bus is a steal at $2. It's a cheap and efficient way to get into the heart of New Orleans without the hassle of parking." — Maria S., New Orleans, LA, February 2024

"If you're using rideshare, head to the second level of the parking garage for pick-ups. It saves time compared to the taxi line." — Charles L., Harahan, LA, April 2024

Parking

"For long trips, I always use the off-airport parking lots. They offer shuttle services and are much cheaper than the airport's long-term parking." — Emily K., River Ridge, LA, June 2024

"The cell phone waiting area is a lifesaver when picking up friends or family. You can park for free and head to the terminal when they call." — Raj P., Kenner, LA, August 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss Dooky Chase's Restaurant for some authentic New Orleans gumbo. It's a great way to start or end your trip with local flavor." — Pierre B., New Orleans, LA, May 2024

"For tech needs, InMotion Entertainment has a good selection of gadgets. I’ve grabbed a few last-minute chargers there more than once." — Aisha M., Metairie, LA, July 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Checking TSA wait times online before heading to the airport can save you a lot of stress. It’s updated regularly and pretty accurate." — Mark D., Jefferson, LA, September 2024

"If traveling with kids, the play areas in Concourses B and D are a godsend. It keeps them entertained during long layovers." — Sarah J., New Orleans, LA, October 2024

iFly Tip: For practical parking solutions, visit our expert guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At the New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas. Curbside parking is not allowed, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. However, there are cell-phone waiting areas available for drivers who are waiting for their passengers to arrive.

When picking up passengers, drivers should proceed to the designated pick-up areas located outside of each terminal. These areas are clearly marked and easily accessible. Drivers should remain in their vehicles until their passengers are ready to be picked up. Once the passengers are in the vehicle, the driver should exit the pick-up area promptly to avoid congestion.

When dropping off passengers, drivers should proceed to the designated drop-off areas located outside of each terminal. These areas are also clearly marked and easily accessible. Drivers should not park or leave their vehicles unattended in the drop-off areas. Once the passengers have exited the vehicle, the driver should exit the drop-off area promptly to avoid congestion.

Overall, it is important for drivers to follow the designated pick-up and drop-off procedures at the New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all passengers and drivers.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're planning to park at New Orleans Airport, you'll find a variety of options available to suit your needs.

The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with both covered and uncovered parking available. The parking garages are located adjacent to the terminal, making it easy to access your vehicle after your flight. There are also surface lots available for those who prefer to park outside.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the terminals, where you can park for free for up to 30 minutes while you wait for your party to arrive.

For those with disabilities, there are designated accessible parking spaces located throughout the parking facilities. If you need assistance getting to or from your vehicle, courtesy shuttles are available to transport you to the terminal.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking lots are available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and can be a great way to save money on parking fees.

Get details about MSY parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

MSY offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

  • Car rental: Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. The rental car facility is located adjacent to the main terminal building, and shuttle buses are available to transport passengers to and from the facility.
  • Taxi services: Taxi services are available at the airport, with a designated taxi stand located outside of the baggage claim area on the first level of the terminal. Fares are metered and vary based on destination and time of day.
  • Shared ride services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are permitted to pick up passengers at the airport. Pickup areas are located on the second level of the airport's parking garage. However, it is important to note that these services are subject to certain restrictions, such as surge pricing during peak travel times.
  • Airport shuttles: Airport shuttles are available to transport passengers to and from select hotels in the area. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area on the first level of the terminal. Fares vary based on destination and can be arranged through the hotel or shuttle service provider.
  • Public transportation: Public transportation options include the Airport-Downtown Express (E-2) bus, which provides service between the airport and downtown New Orleans. The bus stop is located on the second level of the airport's parking garage. Fares are $2.00 per person each way.

iFly Tip: Ensure you have the right documents when requesting a gate pass by reading our gate pass information page.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay near the airport? Our guide provides an overview of the best hotels located within a short distance from the airport. These options range from luxury accommodations to budget-friendly choices, all offering remarkable amenities. Some even provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport for a hassle-free commute. Featured hotels include the Hilton, Pao and Pui, Home2 Suites By Hilton, and the Holiday Inn. Discover the best options for your needs and budget by exploring our list of Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport Hotels.

Dining & Shopping at Armstrong Airport

Get ready to indulge in the culinary delights of New Orleans at the Louis Armstrong Airport. With a wide range of options available, you can enjoy everything from Southern soul food to classic New Orleans desserts. Some of the popular restaurants include Dooky Chase Restaurant, Lucky Dogs, and Copeland's Gourmet Kitchen. And if you're looking to shop, the airport has you covered with stores like Hudson News, InMotion Entertainment, and Perlis Clothing. These are just a few of the many options available to you.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check your options here.

Passenger Services

MSY Airport offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as smooth as possible.

For those needing to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport. If you have lost an item during your travels, the airport's lost and found is located in the baggage claim area of the main terminal.

Traveling with children? There are designated children's play areas located in Concourse B and Concourse D. For those with special needs, the airport offers a range of services including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and TTY phones.

Banking services are available at several locations throughout the airport, including ATMs and currency exchange. If you require medical assistance, there is a medical clinic located in the main terminal.

Flight Status Info

When traveling by air, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At the airport, there are several ways to check your flight's status.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight's status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide up-to-date information on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another convenient way to stay informed about your flight is by downloading your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that allow you to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Louis Armstrong Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Find out what goes into the pre-flight checks with our cockpit preparation guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Armstrong Airport (MSY) is located in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features a Main Terminal, which includes Concourse B, Concourse C, and Concourse D.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the MSY Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Armstrong Airport handles approximately 15,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 200 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MSY are Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Charlotte, and Chicago.
  • Hub Status: Armstrong Airport is a hub for Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines.

Airport History

New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport, formerly known as New Orleans International Airport, has a rich history dating back to the early 1940s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1940: The airport was built as a military airfield during World War II.
  • 1946: The airport was converted into a commercial airport and named Moisant Field after John Bevins Moisant, a pioneer aviator.
  • 1961: The airport was renamed New Orleans International Airport.
  • 1981: A new terminal building was constructed to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.
  • 2001: The airport was renamed Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport in honor of the famous jazz musician who was born in New Orleans.
  • 2005: The airport was severely damaged by Hurricane Katrina and had to be closed for several months. It reopened in November 2005 with limited service.
  • 2013: A new $300 million terminal project was announced to replace the existing terminal and improve the airport's facilities.
  • 2019: The new terminal building was completed and opened to the public, featuring modern amenities and state-of-the-art technology.

Today, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is a major hub for domestic and international travel, serving millions of passengers each year.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about New Orleans Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: MSY
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 504-303-7500
  • Email: Not Available
  • Mailing Address: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, 1 Terminal Drive, Kenner, LA 70062, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport Q&A

The airport consists of Concourse B serving Southwest Airlines, Concourse C for Delta Air Lines and partners, Concourse D for American Airlines and partners, and the Main Terminal for various airlines including United, JetBlue, and Alaska.
Passengers can use complimentary shuttle buses running every 20 minutes or opt for covered walkways between the Main Terminal and Concourses B and C. There is no covered walkway to Concourse D; use the shuttle or a taxi.
Transportation options include the Airport-Downtown Express (E-2) bus for $2, rideshare services with pickups on the second level of the parking garage, and taxis available outside baggage claim.
The airport offers short-term and long-term parking in covered and uncovered areas. Long-term parking is located in garages adjacent to the terminal, and surface lots are available for short trips. Off-airport parking with shuttle service is also an economical option.
Yes, Dooky Chase Restaurant is recommended for New Orleans-style gumbo, and Lucky Dogs is a popular choice for a quick hot dog snack.
Check TSA wait times on the airport’s website before arriving and use the children’s play areas in Concourses B and D for long layovers.
Pick-up and drop-off areas are located outside each terminal. Curbside parking is not allowed, and drivers must remain in their vehicles until passengers are ready.
Services include free WiFi, lost and found, children's play areas, accessible facilities, and banking services. A medical clinic is also located in the main terminal.
Nearby hotels include the Hilton, Home2 Suites By Hilton, and the Holiday Inn, many of which offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport.
Flight status can be checked via in-airport displays, airline mobile apps, or the flight departures page on ifly.com for real-time updates.