MSY Airport Code: New Orleans travel information that solves the next step
Identify the correct airport, understand why New Orleans uses MSY, check departures, navigate the single terminal, choose parking or transport, and find the exact pickup door before travel day.
Check these official MSY pages before leaving
These buttons open official or primary operational sources. They are labeled as links rather than pretending that static article content is live.
What is the New Orleans airport code?
MSY is the three-letter IATA code for Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The airport serves New Orleans and southeast Louisiana, but the current passenger terminal is physically in Kenner, Louisiana, USA.
Airport live checks & travel tools
Use current local conditions, official live-status links and planning calculators before you travel. Airline gate, terminal and flight times can change; your carrier remains the final source for flight-specific details.
Live flight center
Check the airport's official flight board, then confirm any last-minute gate or timing change with the airline.
Current airport-area weather
Useful for planning your trip to the airport. This is model-based local weather, not an aviation METAR or an airline operational forecast.
Quick official checks
Open the source that matches the decision you are making right now.
When should I reach the airport?
A planning estimate based on flight type and common time buffers. Always increase the buffer for severe weather, major holidays, unusual airport alerts or airline instructions.
Connection-risk checker
This is a planning heuristic, not an airline minimum-connection-time rule. International arrivals that require U.S. entry processing, baggage claim and security can need substantially more time.
Parking cost estimator
Uses the airport-specific rates stored in this article's configuration. Rates can change; verify availability and final pricing on the official parking page before driving in.
Passenger pickup readiness
Landing time is not curb-ready time. Add time for taxiing, deplaning, baggage claim, customs when applicable and walking to the correct pickup zone.
Six MSY details worth knowing before travel day
The code itself is simple; the expensive mistakes happen after the search. These are the practical details that affect where you go, how early you leave and which curb you use.
Why is New Orleans airport abbreviated MSY?
The code is not derived from “New Orleans” or “Louis Armstrong.” The airport’s official history says MSY stands for Moisant Stock Yards, tied to the site and the legacy of early aviator John B. Moisant. The airport was known as Moisant Field before becoming New Orleans International Airport in 1960. In 2001, it was renamed Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport in honor of the New Orleans-born musician.
Moisant Stock Yards
This is the origin of the three-letter identifier that still appears on tickets, baggage tags and airport displays.
New Orleans International
The official airport name changed from Moisant Field to New Orleans International Airport, while the established MSY code remained.
Louis Armstrong name
The airport was renamed to honor Louis Armstrong around the centennial of his birth; the IATA identifier remained MSY.
MSY, KMSY and “New Orleans airport abbreviation” explained
| Identifier | What it is | Where a traveler sees it | What to enter |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSY | IATA / passenger-facing code | Tickets, booking sites, baggage tags, airline apps | Use MSY when searching flights to New Orleans |
| KMSY | ICAO aviation identifier | Flight planning, aviation weather, pilot/ATC systems | Use KMSY for aviation weather or technical aviation data |
What the KMSY Pilot Handbook tells a traveler
The FAA’s five-page MSY Pilot Handbook is written for flight crews, not passengers, but it explains several operational realities behind the code KMSY. The airport has two runways—2/20 and 11/29—and the FAA identifies busy surface areas near the north passenger terminal.
Primary air-carrier runway context
The FAA says Runway 11 is the primary runway and Taxiway G8 is a primary turnoff for airline traffic arriving at the north terminal.
Why a landed aircraft can still wait
The handbook flags limited wingtip clearance near Taxiway G and notes that traffic close to the terminal can contribute to taxi delays. A flight can therefore be “landed” before it reaches the gate.
Do not use this for passenger navigation
Runway/taxiway diagrams are aviation-safety material. Passengers should use the FlyMSY facility map for gates, baggage claim, parking and curb locations.
What the FAA diagram shows
The illustrated pages mark three runway/taxiway hot spots, including the G8 area beside the terminal ramp and a busy Runway 11/29 crossing at Taxiway G6. This is useful context for understanding surface congestion, but the FAA explicitly says the handbook is subject to change and is not a substitute for current NOTAMs or legal pre-flight material.
Build a quick MSY travel plan
Airport-arrival calculator
Uses MSY’s 2-hour domestic / 3-hour international baseline, then adds common airport tasks.
Parking estimate
Uses current published maximum daily rates for simple multi-day planning.
Pickup readiness checker
Helps a driver avoid circling or waiting illegally at the curb.
New Orleans airport terminal and concourse guide
MSY is simpler than many major U.S. hubs: the current passenger operation uses one modern terminal with a centralized security checkpoint and Concourses A, B and C. The terminal opened November 6, 2019. You do not need a train or landside shuttle to move among these concourses after security.
Concourse A
Includes international-capable gates and access to the federal inspection path used for international arrivals. Airline assignments change, so confirm the gate with the operating carrier.
Concourse B
Handles a large share of domestic service. The Club MSY is adjacent to the entrance to Concourse B.
Concourse C
Handles domestic service and selected carriers. Delta Sky Club is near the entrance to C; the United Club is near Gate C5.
Ticketing and check-in
Airline counters, curbside check-in for participating airlines, Military Lounge and the Short Term Garage walkway connection.
Security and concourses
Consolidated TSA checkpoint and access to Concourses A, B and C. A pre-security adult changing table is also near the checkpoint area.
Baggage and ground transport
Baggage claim, Customer Service/Lost & Found, guest-pass kiosk, taxis, ride apps, buses, shuttles and curb pickup zones.
How to check New Orleans airport departures without stale information
Use the airport’s flight-status search for an airport-wide view and the operating airline for check-in, bag-drop, rebooking and boarding decisions. A codeshare ticket may display one airline’s marketing flight number while another airline operates the aircraft.
Before leaving home
Confirm flight number, operating carrier, scheduled departure, terminal address and status. If the app shows a gate, treat it as provisional.
At the airport
Recheck airport screens after security. Gate changes can happen even when a saved boarding pass still shows the earlier gate.
During disruption
Use the airline first for rebooking, standby, baggage and missed-connection help. Airport customer service cannot alter an airline reservation.
MSY security, REAL ID, CLEAR, PreCheck and Touchless ID
The single TSA checkpoint is on Level 2. FlyMSY currently lists it as open from 3:30 a.m. until 30 minutes before the last scheduled departure. Airline counters and bag-drop desks have separate hours, so an open checkpoint does not guarantee that your airline is accepting baggage.
Domestic planning baseline
MSY’s normal guidance is to arrive at least two hours before a domestic departure. Add time for remote Economy parking, rental-car return, checked bags, children or mobility assistance.
International planning baseline
Plan at least three hours before an international departure, then check the airline’s document-verification and bag-drop cutoff.
REAL ID and acceptable identification
Since May 7, 2025, TSA no longer accepts non-REAL-ID-compliant state IDs as normal checkpoint identification. A passport and other TSA-listed credentials are alternatives.
CLEAR
CLEAR enrollment/service is available at the main terminal security level. Availability and lane hours can change, so treat it as an optional identity/queue service rather than a guaranteed time saver.
PreCheck Touchless ID
MSY launched TSA PreCheck Touchless ID in May 2026 for eligible PreCheck members on participating airlines. Travelers opt in with the airline and use the dedicated identity-verification lane when eligible.
TSA Cares
For disabilities, medical conditions and screening assistance, contact TSA Cares at 855-787-2227, preferably at least 72 hours before travel.
MSY parking rates, garage clearances, EV charging and reservation rules
| Option | Published daily maximum | Best use | Critical detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Term Garage | $26/day | Closest covered parking / pickups | 2,190 spaces; Level 4 walkway to Level 3 ticketing; 12’6″ clearance on Level 1, 7’6″ above |
| Long Term Garage | $22/day | Convenient multi-day stays | 2,750 spaces; EV charging Levels 1–2; 13′ clearance on Level 1, 7’4″ above |
| Surface Lot | $20/day | Walkable lower-cost terminal parking | 685 spaces; uncovered; first 30 minutes currently free |
| Economy Garage | $12/day | Lowest official daily maximum | Remote at 900 Airline Dr; credit-card only; 24/7 shuttle; EV charging Level 1 |
| Valet | $36/day | Fast curbside handoff | Airport main parking page lists valet available 6 a.m.–midnight; after-hours vehicle pickup support is available |
Economy shuttle and 15-minute guarantee
Economy shuttles operate 24/7 between the remote garage and the terminal. The airport advertises a 15-minute-or-less ride guarantee from the garage to the terminal, with a qualifying 50% parking voucher if the ride exceeds that limit under program terms.
Check ’N Fly baggage drop
Economy customers on participating domestic flights can use garage baggage check during published hours. American, Delta and United are listed 4 a.m.–4 p.m.; Southwest is listed 4 a.m.–noon. Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure and bring government ID.
Parking reservation QR rule
Official pre-booking uses a QR code for entry and exit. Do not pull a new ticket when entering on a reservation or you can be charged again. Current booking terms require reservations at least 24 hours before arrival.
MSY taxi, rideshare, bus and rental-car pickup locations
Ground transportation is on Level 1 Baggage Claim, but each mode uses a different door, curb or zone. Match the service below before walking outside.
| Mode | Where to go | Current detail | Use when |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lyft | Exit Doors 7–9, cross to middle curb | Fast Match may issue a four-digit code; follow the app/ambassador queue | App fare works for your party |
| UberX | Exit Doors 9–11, cross to middle curb | UberX can use a six-digit PIN queue; other Uber products meet on middle curb at the app-assigned zone | You want app pickup after baggage claim |
| Taxi | Door 7, dedicated arrivals taxi zone | $36 to CBD/French Quarter west of Elysian Fields for up to 2 people; 3+ passengers $15 each; cards accepted | A fixed published fare beats surge pricing |
| JET E1 / RTA 202 | Door 2, Zones B4/B5 | JET E1: $1.50 within Jefferson Parish or $2 into New Orleans; RTA 202: $1.25 | Schedule works and luggage is manageable |
| Economy / Rental shuttles | Door 9, far curb near Long Term Garage | 24/7 service to south-campus facilities | Parking in Economy or collecting a rental car |
| Hotel / off-airport parking shuttle | Ground Transportation Center, Doors 1–5 | Only wait after confirming your provider actually runs a shuttle | Your hotel/lot confirms pickup |
Rental Car Center: build real transfer time
The center is at 600 Rental Boulevard, Kenner. The 24/7 shuttle typically departs about every five minutes, and FlyMSY lists approximately 15–20 minutes for the terminal-to-rental-facility ride. That time is before rental counter, vehicle pickup or return processing.
Do not accept curbside solicitors
FlyMSY warns against unbadged transportation or baggage solicitors. Ride-app trips should exist in your app, and the vehicle plate, make/model and driver photo should match before boarding.
Passenger pickup, drop-off and exact Level 1 doors
International flights, customs and connecting at MSY
MSY is an international airport with federal inspection facilities. International-arrival processing can add significant time before a traveler reaches Level 1, especially when baggage delivery and Customs are included.
Follow the international arrivals route
Passengers arriving from a location without U.S. preclearance follow the secured corridor into federal inspection rather than walking directly into the public concourse.
Complete passport and Customs processing
Carry required travel documents and follow CBP instructions. If you are connecting onward, confirm with the airline whether checked baggage must be collected and rechecked after inspection.
Meet a driver or greeter after Customs
FlyMSY’s Guest Pass rules specifically say international-arrival meetings should occur at the exit of U.S. Customs on Level 1 near Door 1.
Wheelchair, hidden-disability, adult-changing and pet-relief help
Wheelchair assistance
Arrange wheelchair and flight-related mobility assistance with the operating airline in advance. The airport’s Guest Pass program does not provide airline wheelchair attendants.
Hidden Disabilities program
Free sunflower lanyards or bracelets are available at the Customer Service Desk by Baggage Claim on Level 1. They signal that a traveler may need extra understanding; they do not provide TSA priority.
TSA Cares
Travelers with disabilities, medical conditions or other special circumstances can contact TSA Cares at 855-787-2227, preferably 72 hours before travel.
Adult changing tables
Available in family/companion care restrooms pre-security on Level 2 to the right of the checkpoint and post-security near Shake Shack.
Pet relief
Post-security relief is near Shake Shack. Outside, exit Level 1 Door 5 and go right toward the area between the Short Term Garage and terminal.
TTY / relay
Use Louisiana Relay Service by dialing 711 and request Airport Communications at 504-303-7700.
What stays available at MSY late at night?
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is open 24 hours daily, including holidays, but the building being open is not the same as every passenger service being open.
Wi-Fi, nursing, lounges, water, charging and visitor access
Free Wi-Fi
Connect to #MSY-FI. The airport lists a free unlimited tier up to 5 Mbps plus paid Boingo options.
Charging
Power is available pre- and post-security. FlyMSY says about 50% of gate-hold seating includes outlets, and many restaurant seats also have power.
Water refill
There are 11 bottle-filling stations after security. Carry an empty reusable bottle through the checkpoint and refill airside.
Mother’s Rooms
One post-security Mother’s Room is provided on each concourse with seating, a changing table and electrical outlets.
Lounges
The Club MSY is by Concourse B, Delta Sky Club by Concourse C and United Club at Gate C5. Confirm same-day access and hours with the operator.
Military Lounge
The airport’s current projects page describes a pre-security Level 3 lounge for eligible active-duty military travelers and families, generally staffed daily 8 a.m.–8 p.m.; verify current access before relying on it.
Cash-to-card kiosk
Ready Credit kiosks on Level 3 convert cash to a prepaid Mastercard. FlyMSY currently lists a $6 card fee and $1,000 limit.
Adult changing tables
Family/companion care restrooms provide adult changing tables pre-security on Level 2 to the right of screening and post-security near Shake Shack.
No luggage lockers
The airport FAQ states that baggage-storage lockers are not available, so do not plan an airport locker stop before visiting the city.
See inside the modern MSY terminal before your trip
This airport-provided video is useful for understanding the scale and design of the newer passenger terminal. Use the current facility map for exact gate, restroom, dining and ground-transport locations because the video is not a live navigation feed.
Current MSY projects that can affect passenger timing
Construction does not automatically mean a gate or runway is closed. Use these projects to understand where extra buffer may be sensible, then rely on your airline and airport notices for actual operational impact.
Express Shuttle Connector Road
Phase 1 is under construction with a current airport timeline of June 2025–October 2026. The dedicated route is intended to remove Economy/Rental shuttles from public-street traffic and improve reliability between the south campus and terminal.
Security checkpoint improvements
Construction started in July 2026 and is scheduled through June 2027. The work changes doors and exit-lane systems, so follow current wayfinding rather than saved terminal screenshots.
Runway 2/20 rehabilitation
The airport lists full-depth runway-center reconstruction and lighting/marking work through December 2026. Passengers should not infer a delay from the project alone; check live flight status and the operating airline.
Who to contact for a lost item at MSY
The correct lost-and-found office depends on where the item was left. Sending every report to the airport can delay recovery.
| Where it was lost | Contact | Useful detail |
|---|---|---|
| Public terminal area | MSY Lost & Found 504-303-7790 | Level 1 Baggage Claim near Door 6; office Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; items kept 60 days |
| After airport Lost & Found hours | Airport Communications 504-303-7700 | Use for after-hours assistance, not airline baggage claims |
| TSA checkpoint | TSA Lost & Found 504-463-2252 | Checkpoint property is handled by TSA, not airport Lost & Found |
| Aircraft, gate or airline-exclusive area | Operating airline | Give flight number, date, seat and item description |
| Rental Car Facility / shuttle | Rental facility Lost & Found 615-571-0978 | If left inside a rented vehicle, contact the rental company directly |
MSY travel-day checklist
- Verify the booking says MSY.
- Confirm the operating airline and flight number.
- Check departure status before leaving.
- Use 1 Terminal Drive, Kenner for terminal navigation.
- Review airline bag-drop cutoff.
- Add Economy/rental shuttle time when applicable.
- Carry acceptable TSA identification.
- Keep medicine and documents in cabin baggage.
- Screenshot the boarding pass as backup.
- Check weather and transportation alerts.
- Request wheelchair assistance in advance.
- Send pickup driver the Level 1 door after baggage claim.
New Orleans airport location, address and map
Passenger terminal
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
1 Terminal Drive
Kenner, LA 70062
United States
General airport information: 504-303-7500
Driving from downtown New Orleans
The airport directs downtown drivers to I-10 West and Exit 221A toward N.O. Airport. Follow airport signs for Departures, Arrivals and the selected parking facility.
Do not navigate to the old terminal address when dropping off a passenger at the current terminal.
Frequently asked questions about New Orleans airport code
What is the New Orleans airport code?
What does MSY stand for?
What is the ICAO code for New Orleans airport?
Is MSY an international airport?
Is New Orleans airport actually in New Orleans?
How many terminals does MSY have?
Where can I check MSY departures?
Where is the MSY airport map?
How early should I arrive at MSY?
What time does security open at New Orleans airport?
Where does Uber or Lyft pick up at MSY?
How much is a taxi from MSY to the French Quarter?
What is the cheapest official parking at MSY?
Where do Economy and rental-car shuttles pick up?
Does MSY have public transportation to New Orleans?
Can non-ticketed visitors go through security at MSY?
Are there luggage lockers at MSY?
Where is MSY Lost and Found?
Does MSY have nursing rooms and pet relief areas?
Does MSY have CLEAR or TSA PreCheck Touchless ID?
Which doors should I use for Uber or Lyft at MSY?
How long is the MSY rental-car shuttle?
What should I know before reserving MSY parking online?
What does the FAA KMSY Pilot Handbook tell passengers?
Is MSY open 24 hours?
Official sources and update policy
Changing operational details are checked against the airport, FAA, TSA and local transit sources. Static explanations come first; official links follow them so the reader can understand the action before leaving the page.
New Orleans Aviation Board / FlyMSY
Airport name, history, terminal, parking, security, amenities, accessibility, transportation, construction and Lost & Found.
FAA and TSA
KMSY aviation identifier/procedure context and federal screening/identification guidance.