Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport Overview

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (IATA: MSY – ICAO: KMSY) is the primary public international airport serving New Orleans, Louisiana, and the broader Gulf Coast region. In Kenner, approximately 18 kilometres (11 miles) west of downtown New Orleans, MSY is a vital gateway for tourism, business, and cargo operations in the American South. Named after jazz legend Louis Armstrong, the airport reflects the city’s vibrant culture and serves millions of passengers from across the United States, Latin America, and Europe each year.

General Information

  • Location: Kenner, Louisiana (serving New Orleans)
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: MSY
  • ICAO Code: KMSY
  • Elevation: 4 feet (1 metre)
  • Coordinates: 29°59′28″N 090°15′26″W
  • Timezone: UTC−6 (Central Standard Time) / UTC−5 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 18 km (11 miles) west of downtown New Orleans
  • Website: www.flymsy.com
  • Operator: New Orleans Aviation Board
  • Services: Scheduled domestic and international flights, cargo, charter, and general aviation

Airport Details

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 11/29: 3,204 m (10,512 ft) – Asphalt
    • 02/20: 2,134 m (7,000 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for narrow- and wide-body aircraft up to Code E
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 9
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available 24/7 for commercial and private aircraft
  • Aircraft Types: Regional jets, narrow- and wide-body aircraft, private jets
  • Terminals: Single terminal facility with three concourses (A, B, and C)
  • Cargo Facilities: FedEx, UPS, Amazon Air, and DHL operations
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Atlantic Aviation
  • Equipment: GPU, de-icing, lavatory, potable water, hangars
  • Ground Services: Full commercial, private, and cargo support services

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA with CBP coordination
  • Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled and foreign-registered flights
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: Supports aircraft up to Code E
  • Alternate Airports:
    • BTR: Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport
    • LFT: Lafayette Regional Airport

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: U.S. visa, ESTA, or passport as applicable
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration; visa or ESTA if required
  • Transport Options: Taxis, Uber/Lyft, airport shuttles, Jefferson Transit buses, rental cars
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: Hilton New Orleans Airport, Holiday Inn Express Kenner
    • Downtown: The Roosevelt, Hotel Monteleone, Windsor Court Hotel
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); all major cards accepted

Local Attractions

French Quarter

New Orleans’ most famous neighbourhood—home to Bourbon Street, live jazz, Creole cuisine, and historic architecture dating back to the 1700s.

Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral

A vibrant city square with street performers and artists, anchored by the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, one of the oldest in North America.

Garden District

A picturesque area known for antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and the famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.

National WWII Museum

An acclaimed interactive museum featuring exhibits, aircraft, and personal stories—ranked among the top museums in the world.

Mississippi Riverfront & Steamboat Natchez

Take a traditional paddlewheel cruise on the Mississippi River and view the city from its historic lifeline.

Mardi Gras World

Go behind the scenes of New Orleans’ legendary carnival tradition—see parade floats being built and learn the history of Mardi Gras.

Frenchmen Street

An alternative to Bourbon Street, this stretch is known for authentic jazz clubs, local art markets, and a laid-back vibe.

Bayou Swamp Tours

Explore the wetlands outside the city with guided airboat tours through bayous teeming with alligators and birdlife.

Culinary Tours & Creole Cuisine

Try signature dishes like gumbo, crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, and beignets at iconic restaurants such as Commander’s Palace and Café du Monde.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Feb–Apr): Perfect for Mardi Gras and French Quarter Fest
    • Autumn (Oct–Nov): Pleasant weather and fewer tourists
  • Additional Notes:
    • Private jet travellers benefit from quick access to downtown via I-10
    • Signature and Atlantic Aviation offer full-service FBO facilities with executive lounges and customs assistance
    • Airport is busy during major festivals—early coordination is essential for parking and handling
    • New terminal (opened in 2019) provides upgraded amenities and modern architecture

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is more than just a transport hub—it reflects the city’s spirit: soulful, efficient, and welcoming. Whether you’re arriving for business, music, food, or culture, MSY sets the tone for an unforgettable experience.