How to Get to New Orleans. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airport & Airlines

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the main airport, located about 11 miles west of downtown. It is a modern and efficient airport handling domestic and international flights.

Airlines

Southwest Airlines is the largest carrier at MSY.
Other major airlines: Delta, American, United, Spirit, Frontier, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines.
International flights from Air Canada (Toronto) and British Airways (London Heathrow).

Flight Routes & Prices

MSY has extensive domestic connections, serving major U.S. Hubs. Most international travelers connect through a major U.S. Hub like Atlanta or Dallas.

Price Fluctuations

High Season (Spring, Fall): Demand is highest, expect higher prices. Book well in advance.
Low Season (Summer): Demand is lower, generally meaning cheaper flights despite the heat.
Shoulder Season (Winter): Prices are moderate, but higher around holidays.

Airport Facilities

MSY has a single terminal building with three concourses. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, diverse dining, retail shops, and lounges.

Airport Shuttle

The official shared-ride service costs $24 one-way or $44 round-trip, serving major hotel areas. Book online or at the ground transportation desk.

Taxis & Rideshare

Taxis offer a flat rate of $36 to the CBD/French Quarter. Uber/Lyft pick up from the parking garage, with fares ranging from $35-$50.

Airport Transfers to City

Convenient Options

Airport Shuttle: Shared-ride vans, $24 one-way/$44 round-trip to major hotel areas.
Taxi: Flat rate $36 to CBD/French Quarter for up to two passengers ($15 per person for three or more).
Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Designated pick-up on second floor of parking garage, fares $35-$50.
Public Bus (JeT E2 Airport Express): Connects MSY to downtown for $1.50, suitable for light luggage.

Rental Cars & Booking

Rental Cars: Consolidated Rental Car Center is accessible via shuttle from the terminal.
Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended.
Using services like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight deals can save money.
Popular routes include Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.

Airport Facilities Summary

Terminals & Navigation

MSY has a single, easy-to-navigate terminal with three concourses (A, B, C).

Amenities

Free Wi-Fi, diverse dining, retail shops, lounges (Delta Sky Club, United Club), nursing rooms, and pet relief areas.

Ground Transportation Desk

Located on the first floor for shuttle, taxi, and limousine information and assistance.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Amtrak operates services to and from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOU), a major hub for several routes.

Amtrak Routes

City of New Orleans: Daily service between Chicago and New Orleans, including Memphis.
Sunset Limited: Three times a week service between New Orleans and Los Angeles (service west of San Antonio suspended).
Crescent: Daily service between New Orleans and New York City, with stops in Atlanta and Washington D.C.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Long-distance buses offer a budget-friendly way to reach New Orleans. Bus travel is typically the most economical land transport option, though it can take longer than other methods.

Bus Companies

Greyhound: Operates services to and from New Orleans from various U.S. Cities.
Megabus: Offers limited intercity bus services to some major cities. Check their website for routes.
Book tickets in advance, especially for sleeper cars or during peak seasons.

Self-Driving Considerations

Major highways like Interstate 10 (I-10) run east-west through the city. I-55 connects to Memphis, and I-59 connects to Birmingham.

Driving Information

A valid driver's license is generally sufficient; an International Driving Permit is recommended for non-English licenses.
New Orleans roads are notoriously bumpy with many potholes; drive defensively and slowly.
Parking can be expensive and limited, especially in the French Quarter; read signs carefully.

Road Conditions & Safety

Poor road conditions are common, with widespread potholes and uneven surfaces due to soft soil and frequent rain. Traffic can be congested during peak hours.

Safety Precautions

Drive slowly and stay alert for sudden dips or bumps in the road.
Plan extra travel time during congested periods, especially on major arteries like I-10.
Be cautious of smash-and-grab thefts from parked cars; always lock doors and keep valuables out of sight.

Driving Laws & Minimum Age

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply; drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are needed for all occupants.
A right turn on red after stopping is generally permitted unless otherwise marked.

Minimum age for renting a car is typically 21.
Surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.
Always be aware of your surroundings when driving.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise Port & Services

The Port of New Orleans is a major cruise homeport in the U.S., with two main terminals: Erato Street Terminal and Julia Street Terminal.

Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International operate cruises.
These cruises typically go to the Caribbean and Mexico.
Standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures apply to international cruise passengers.

Ferry & River Transportation

The Algiers Ferry connects the foot of Canal Street to Algiers Point across the Mississippi River. This ferry is pedestrian and bicycle friendly.

River Transit Options

Algiers Ferry fare is $2.00 (cash only, exact change preferred).
Steamboat Natchez/Creole Queen offer daily sightseeing cruises on the Mississippi River.
These steamboat cruises are mainly for tourism, offering a relaxing way to experience the river.

Connections to Land Transport

Cruise terminals are close to the Central Business District and French Quarter. Taxis, rideshares, and the New Orleans Streetcar (Riverfront Line) are available.

Immigration Procedures

Procedures are similar to airport arrivals. U.S. Citizens and permanent residents often have expedited processing. Foreign nationals will undergo inspection.

Riverfront Streetcar

The streetcar offers a charming way to explore the riverfront area and connect to other parts of the city.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-free exit from New Orleans.

Timing Recommendations

Air Travel: Arrive at MSY at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours before international flights.
Allow extra time during peak travel periods like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest.
Train/Bus: Arrive at Union Passenger Terminal or bus station at least 30-60 minutes before departure.

Airport/Station Facilities

MSY offers many facilities for departing travelers, including check-in kiosks, baggage drop areas, and security options.

Departing Amenities

TSA PreCheck and Clear lanes are available for eligible travelers to speed up security.
Various food and beverage options are present, along with retail shops for last-minute needs.
Lounges provide a comfortable waiting area before your flight.

Exit Fees or Taxes

No Specific Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are imposed on travelers departing the U.S.

Included in Ticket Price

Any applicable fees are already included in airline ticket prices.

Check Airline Policy

Confirm your flight status or train/bus schedule before heading to the airport/station.

Departure Checklist

Allow ample time for check-in and security, especially during peak travel periods or if checking luggage.

How to Get to New Orleans