Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport

Louis Armstrong International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the world of jazz and Creole culture. Named after the legendary trumpeter, this air harbour immerses guests in the unique atmosphere of New Orleans from the very first minute. The modern terminal, opened quite recently, combines advanced technology with Southern hospitality, promising travellers a comfortable start to their adventure in Louisiana.

One of the main features of the airport is its musical soul: live jazz performances regularly take place here, greeting tourists with familiar melodies right in the waiting areas. It is the only airport in the world where a musical programme is an integral part of the service, creating a festive mood even before stepping out into the city.

The culinary component of the terminal also deserves attention. Travellers can taste famous New Orleans dishes without leaving the building: from hot beignets at Café du Monde to spicy gumbo and seafood at local restaurants. The new North Terminal, opened in 2019, is distinguished by spacious halls, an abundance of natural light, and thoughtful navigation, making the wait for a flight as pleasant as possible.

If you need to contact representatives of Louis Armstrong Airport, please use the following contact information. We recommend checking the validity of the data on the official website before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find the latest information on flights, services, and regulations on the airport's official portal — www.flymsy.com.
• Help Desk Phone: For immediate information and enquiries, you can call: +1 504-303-7500.
• Airport Address: 1 Terminal Dr, Kenner, LA 70062, USA. The airport is located in a suburb serving New Orleans.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the special contact forms on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on popular social networks, such as Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter), under the username @flyMSY.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, please contact the airport's Lost and Found service. If the loss occurred on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main help desk number.

You can get to Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) from the centre of New Orleans in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget and time. The airport is located approximately 18 kilometres west of the city's business centre, and the journey usually takes from 30 to 50 minutes.

Public Transport: The most economical option is the Airport Express bus (Route E2), operated by the RTA. The fare is only about $1.50. Buses run from early morning until late evening with intervals of approximately 30-40 minutes. The route passes through the city centre, making it convenient for many tourists. The bus ride will take about 50-60 minutes, making it an excellent choice for travellers who are not in a rush and have light luggage.

Taxi and Ridesharing: For greater comfort and speed, you can use a taxi. A trip from the French Quarter or the Central Business District (CBD) to the airport has a fixed cost — about $36 for two passengers (a fee is charged for each additional passenger). Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also widely available in New Orleans and often offer competitive prices, which, however, may vary depending on demand. The travel time by car will be 25-40 minutes excluding traffic jams.

Car Rental and Parking: If you are travelling by rental car, the airport is easily accessible via I-10 West. Follow the signs to the airport (MSY). The airport has several parking options: short-term, long-term, and economy, located slightly further from the terminal. Prices vary depending on the type of parking. This option is ideal for those planning to explore the city surroundings and value independence in moving around the USA.

Shuttles and Transfers: Group shuttles are a good compromise between price and convenience. They offer transport from the hotel to the airport at a price of about $24 per person. This may be more profitable than a taxi if you are travelling alone, but less convenient as the shuttle stops for other passengers. It is recommended to book a seat on the shuttle in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans (MSY) is distinguished by a modern and well-thought-out structure. Since 2019, a single terminal has been operating here, serving all domestic and international flights. This solution has significantly simplified logistics for travellers and made the stay at the airport as comfortable as possible.

The terminal layout is intuitive. It consists of three main levels:

• Level 3: Check-in Zone. The counters of all airlines are located here. This is where you arrive by taxi or shuttle for departure.
• Level 2: Security Checkpoint and Departures. After check-in, you go down to the second level, where the unified centralised security control point is located. After passing through it, passengers enter the secure zone with shops, restaurants, and access to all gates.
• Level 1: Arrivals Zone. Baggage claim belts and exits to ground transport are located here.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between terminals. All boarding gates are grouped into three piers — Concourse A, B, and C, which are connected by a spacious central hall after the security zone. You can easily walk from one end of the terminal to the other without leaving the sterile zone. Navigation is very simple thanks to clear signage.

Check-in and security screening usually do not take much time, but it is worth being prudent. On normal days, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. It is important to remember that during major events, such as Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest, the airport can be heavily congested, so it is better to arrive with extra time.

The history of Louis Armstrong International Airport began long before it received its famous name. The airport was opened for commercial flights in 1946 and originally bore the name Moisant Field. This name was given in honour of John Moisant, an aviation pioneer who died tragically in 1910 during an air show near the site where the airport was later built.

From the very beginning, the airport played an important role in the transport system of the city of New Orleans and the entire southern USA. In 2001, in honour of the 100th anniversary of the birth of the great jazz musician, the airport was officially renamed Louis Armstrong International Airport. This step highlighted the inseparable link of the air harbour with the unique cultural identity of the city, which is considered the cradle of jazz.

One of the most significant events in the airport's recent history was its complete transformation. In November 2019, a completely new, modern terminal worth over a billion dollars was opened. This massive project replaced the outdated complex of buildings and brought passenger service to a fundamentally new level. The new terminal features thoughtful logistics, a bright and spacious design, as well as many restaurants and shops representing local culture and cuisine.

The airport has also witnessed dramatic events. During Hurricane Katrina in 2005, despite some damage, it remained one of the few functioning infrastructure facilities in the region. Evacuation of the population was carried out through it, and it served as a centre for rescue operations and the delivery of humanitarian aid, demonstrating its critical importance in emergency situations.

Today, Louis Armstrong Airport is not just a transport hub, but a modern complex reflecting the spirit and resilience of New Orleans. Its history — from a modest airfield to an ultra-modern terminal — is a symbol of development and the city's constant striving for a better future.

Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans offers passengers modern and thoughtful service, making the wait for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the spacious terminal, you will find a wide selection of establishments for every taste: from cafes with quick snacks to restaurants where you can experience authentic Louisiana cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops with souvenirs, travel goods, and, of course, a Duty Free zone offering perfumes, confectionery, and other goods at attractive prices.

To ensure passengers always stay connected, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport territory. Also, many charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets are located throughout the terminal. For those who value increased comfort, lounges and VIP areas are available where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, have a snack, and use additional services.

All necessary financial services are available at the airport: you will easily find ATMs and currency exchange points. A first aid station is provided for urgent health issues. Travellers can be assured that basic needs will be met right in the terminal building.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, specially equipped restrooms, and an escort service available upon prior request. Families with children will appreciate the presence of mother and child rooms, where you can feed and change a baby in silence and comfort.

For business people who need to work on the road, the airport has business centres and meeting rooms. If you have a long layover or a very early flight, there are several hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which provide free transfers for their guests, which is very convenient for tourists travelling across the USA.

New Orleans International Airport (MSY) rightfully prides itself on its gastronomic capabilities, which reflect the city's rich culinary culture. Here, travellers can find everything: from a quick bite on the run to a full dinner at a restaurant by a famous chef. The vast majority of establishments are located in the main secure zone after passing security control, allowing for a comfortable meal while waiting for a flight.

For those who want to taste the flavour of Louisiana without leaving the terminal, the airport offers unique options. Be sure to pay attention to Emeril's Table by chef Emeril Lagasse, serving Creole delicacies. Another iconic place is Leah's Kitchen, named after the legendary Leah Chase, where you can try Southern classics. If you are looking for something modern, check out MoPho, offering a fusion of Vietnamese and Creole cuisine. These establishments are ideal for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

If time is limited, there are plenty of options for a quick snack at your service. The airport features popular chains such as Shake Shack and Chick-fil-A, as well as coffee shops including Starbucks and local establishments like PJ's Coffee. You can grab sandwiches, salads, pastries, and, of course, excellent coffee there. This is a wonderful choice for breakfast or a light lunch.

Regarding special dietary needs, many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Travellers looking for Halal options are advised to check the menu or ask the staff directly at individual outlets for availability. The price range is quite wide: from budget offers in fast-food outlets (about 10-15 dollars per dish) to medium and high checks in signature restaurants (from 30 dollars and above). Most restaurants and cafes operate from early morning until late evening to serve passengers of all flights.

To ensure your journey through New Orleans Airport goes smoothly, make use of these tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international ones. During major festivals, such as Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest, allow extra time as passenger traffic increases significantly.

To save time, check in for your flight online and save your boarding pass on your phone. Security control at Louis Armstrong Airport is standard for the USA. To speed up the process, prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance, and remove laptops and large electronics from your hand luggage. If you have TSA PreCheck status, you will be able to pass screening through a simplified procedure.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, whilst an aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up freely. Since the airport is located west of the city of New Orleans, when departing to the east, seats on the left side (A, B, C) may reveal a view of Lake Pontchartrain, but this depends heavily on the takeoff route.

When packing hand luggage, remember the rule for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in one transparent bag. This also applies to gastronomic souvenirs, for example, famous Louisiana sauces. Sharp objects and other prohibited items should be checked in with your luggage.

Passengers with transfers are in luck: MSY airport has one modern terminal, making transit very convenient. All boarding gates are in one building, and you will not have to go through security screening again when transferring from a domestic flight to another domestic flight. Simply check the departure board and head to your gate, exploring local cafes and shops along the way.

When arriving from abroad, you will first pass passport control, and then customs. Have your passport and completed customs declaration (if required) ready. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid fines and delays. The process usually proceeds quickly and is well-organised.

To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle — after security, you can fill it at special stations. You can also book parking online in advance with a discount or compare the cost of taxis and ridesharing services with the city bus Airport Express (Route E2), which is the most budget-friendly way to get to the city centre.

In case of a flight delay, first check the information in your airline's mobile app. The airport offers free Wi-Fi, many restaurants, and comfortable waiting areas. For long delays, do not hesitate to contact an airline representative to enquire about the possibility of providing vouchers for food or drinks.