Terminal Guide – Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport (MSY)
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) operates with a single, modern terminal, designed to simplify passenger flow while offering a high-quality travel experience. Opened in November 2019, this terminal replaced the older facility and positioned MSY among the most modern airports in the United States, with improved capacity, better services, and a strong focus on passenger comfort.
History & Development
MSY originally opened in 1946 and served New Orleans for decades through multiple expansions. However, due to increasing passenger demand and the need for modernization, a completely new terminal was built and inaugurated in 2019. This new facility significantly improved efficiency, security processes, and overall passenger experience.
Even though MSY has only one terminal, it is quite large—arrive early if your gate is in Concourse D, which is the furthest.
Terminal Layout & Structure
The airport terminal is organized across three main levels:
- Level 1: Arrivals, baggage claim, ground transportation
- Level 2: Ticketing, check-in counters, security checkpoints
- Level 3: Departures, gates, restaurants, and shops
After security, passengers can access three concourses: A, B, C (and D extension). Each concourse is connected by a central corridor with moving walkways.
Walking distances can reach 10–15 minutes—use moving walkways and check your gate early.
Concourses Overview
Concourse A: Mainly used by low-cost and domestic carriers. Compact and easy to navigate. Concourse B: The largest concourse, with the widest range of restaurants and shops. Concourse C: Hosts major airlines and lounges such as Delta and United. Concourse D: Extension used for additional gates, often quieter but further away.
If you want better food options, head toward Concourse B even if your gate is elsewhere.
Facilities & Services
MSY offers a wide range of facilities, including free Wi-Fi, ATMs, currency exchange, charging stations, water refill points, and business services. Luggage storage is also available within the terminal.
Families benefit from nursing rooms, play areas, and spacious seating zones. Passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) have access to elevators, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Charging stations near gates can be busy—look for seating areas near restaurants for better availability.
Security & Baggage Control
Security checkpoints are centralized on Level 2 and generally efficient, although wait times may increase during peak hours. Baggage claim is located on Level 1, with clearly marked carousels.
Early morning departures (5–8 AM) are the busiest—arrive earlier to avoid queues.
Check-in & Boarding
Check-in counters are located on Level 2, with both staffed desks and self-service kiosks. Boarding typically begins 30–45 minutes before departure.
Use online check-in and mobile boarding passes to save time.
Lost & Found
Lost items in public areas are handled by the airport’s Customer Service Office. Items lost at security must be reported to TSA, while airline-related items should be handled directly by the airline.
Always double-check your seat area before leaving the aircraft—most items are lost onboard.