Having flown far more miles than I can imagine, I’d venture to say that at this juncture in my life I’m a bit of an airport aficionado. While I’ve seen (and ran) the ins and outs of many terminals across the globe, the common denominator that exists between the majority of these travel adventures is my point of origin: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, also known as MSY.

After much anticipation from me and probably every traveler from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, three weeks ago New Orleans finally unveiled the brand new terminal at MSY, a $1.3 billion gift to travelers near and far. I guess it’s safe to say that Christmas has come early for the travel community this year, but keep reading. I’ll let you be the judge.

“The Times They are a-changin’”: Upgrades at Louis Armstrong That Are Long Overdue

New Orleans is my hometown and anyone that has ever been here can attest to the fact that there is absolutely nowhere in the world quite like it. The history, food, culture and people are second to none.

Despite the affinity that I have towards my city, I’ve always had a slight sore spot about flying out of MSY. Can anyone else relate? As a matter of fact, there have been moments where I’ve found myself in complete awe in smaller cities and airports that are instantly more aesthetically pleasing than the one in my hometown; a terminal that has been in operation for more than 50 years. Amenities that have seemingly become the norm in airports − such as plush seating areas with charging stations at your fingertips, a decent variety of food and shopping options, not to mention something as simple as a Starbucks that you can find on almost every street corner in New York or Chicago − were simply non-existent at New Orleans airport until a few weeks ago.

Apparently I’m not the only one who was disappointed by the previous offerings at MSY. According to USA Today Travel, back in August 2019 The Points Guy and traffic-analysis firm INRIX ranked Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport as number 7 on their list of “America’s 10 Worst Airports.” That’s not exactly what you would call a badge of honor.

While that may have been bad news then and a bit presumptive considering that airport officials had already announced its opening in the fall of 2019; I’ve got a feeling that, as Bob Dylan put it, “Times they are a-changin’” and if this was the Hunger Games of airports, the odds may now be slightly in our favor.

What’s the Real 4-1-1 (or in this case the 5-0-4) on MSY?

Just like a kid anxiously anticipating the unwrapping of presents under the tree on Christmas morning, I could not wait to experience the new MSY. Once the day arrived that I could fly out of the new terminal (keep in mind that it is not considered a new airport since the old runway is still being utilized); ladies and gentlemen it did not disappoint.

As with any change or new operation, I had heard so many negative things leading up to my departure about long lines, traffic and absolute chaos. So much so that I had no idea what I should expect when navigating through the terminal. How far would the parking garage be from the terminal? Will I be able to arrive at the last minute as usual and still make my flight? Will the security checkpoint be a nightmare? Will I even know where to go? These are all questions that I asked myself in an effort to think through this brand new experience that was actually giving me a bit of anxiety the night before departure.

Is there anyone else who prefers to know what to expect before heading to a new place? I certainly do, and I believe that my fellow travelers can benefit from something that I didn’t have prior to taking off, and that is an insider perspective on the real 4-1-1 (or 5-0-4) on what it’s like to fly out of MSY. As Drake says “you can thank me later,” but in the meantime make sure that your seat belts are securely fastened because here we geaux (pronounced go) on a quick run-down of the new terminal, my restaurant and shopping recommendations, and a glimpse of what to expect this holiday season at MSY.

First Things First: Navigating to the Airport, Drop-Off, Ticketing and Security

Despite significant press stating that things were quite hectic at the airport due to the transition and other structural interstate projects not being completed in time for the airport’s grand opening, I experienced nothing of the sort. If we’re talking directions, and admittedly I’m not the best at it, the easiest and shortest way to navigate to the airport is to exit Loyola Avenue via I-10, which provides you with a straight shot to the new terminal. Since I was running late (per the usual) and didn’t know what to expect, I decided to take an Uber and, seriously, it was a breeze. No crazy traffic, backups or delays. Not to mention the beautiful landscaping leading up to the new terminal. Job well done NOLA!

In hindsight, I was also able to scope out the short-term and long-term parking garages that are conveniently located near the terminal. This should make parking at the airport before flying out a convenient option for travelers. The night before your departing flight I would recommend checking the Fly MSY website for a breakdown of available parking spaces in each garage. This will allow you to be able to anticipate whether driving or using a ride share service is the best choice on the day of travel.

Now that we’ve gotten through navigation, transportation and parking, lets breathe a little because I promise you it just keeps getting better from here!

After I was dropped off at the curbside departures location, I entered the new terminal and absolutely loved what my eyes beheld. My first thoughts were modern, beauty and aestetics because this place had all three combined. The building was very spacious with an open floor plan and tons of natural light shining through the floor-to-ceiling windows. All of the ticketing counters were located to the left of the entrance and, although I didn’t need to venture to this area to print my boarding pass off or check in any bags, the lines looked reasonable.

In order to get to get to the uniform security checkpoint you have to venture to the right and take one of the escalators down one level. Of course if you require special assistance you can also access this area by utilizing one of the elevators.

If I conducted a poll that asked travelers what their least favorite part about airports is, I’m sure that the security screening area would be ranked at the top of their list. Those folks are not alone because it’s typically at the top of mine as well, especially when I’m travelling through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) or O’Hare (ORD). Lets just say that neither of these places are my idea of a good time. Not to worry though, MSY is nothing like these airports.

The security checkpoint area is expansive and is said to be the length of a football field. It was reminiscent of ATL, but with more organization and nicer people. If you’ve flown into MSY before this new era, you may have noticed that previously we had three different security checkpoint areas, depending on what concourse you were flying out of. Now they have consolidated it into one area, which I’m assuming can be both a gift and a curse depending on the day. On this day though (a Thursday), lines were minimal, moving really quickly and I managed to get through with ease. I timed my progress and I was able to make it from the departures curb to my gate in less than 15 minutes. Seriously, for a first-timer, someone should consider giving me an award for that!

The ABC’s of MSY: The Concourse Breakdown

Various pieces of art line the hall of Concourse A @ MSY

Security is usually the biggest delay for travelers and may be the difference-maker between making or missing a flight on any given day. So once I was through the checkpoint area, I was able to breathe a huge sigh of relief as I then began to focus on locating my gate.

There are three concourses available: A, B and C. When exiting the security area, Concourses A and B are immediately to your right and Concourse C is to your left. As far as I can tell, Concourse A was not being utilized for any of the departing or arriving flights that day. There aren’t any restaurants or shops in Concourse A either so don’t bother going in that direction if you’re looking for a bite to eat. Unless your departure gate is there or you’re seeking a quiet place to chill or sleep, you won’t find what you’re looking for in Concourse A. Though I must admit that I enjoyed the artwork that lined the walls there so if you have some extra time before departing it’s certainly worth a stroll. I’m also assuming that they are attracting other airlines to operate out of MSY so it will probably serve as the future home of those new operators.

Now lets move on to the good stuff! Concourse B is comprised of mostly Southwest Airlines flight departures (my personal favorite and the largest operator at MSY) and American Airlines flights as well. In contrast, Concourse C was mostly Delta departures and arrivals, and Spirit Airlines. It should also be noted that there was a Delta Sky Club lounge near Concourse C and handy kiosks for Delta customers. Since I wasn’t flying with this airline, I’ll have to report back later on how comfy the lounge is in comparison to other major cities.

NOLA Flavor: Where to Eat at MSY?

Is there anyone else that only cares about the food options in certain cities? Being a self-proclaimed foodie myself, I want to direct you to all the good eats in the airport. That may sound like an oxymoron considering airport food is typically underwhelming, but this is not your typical city. New Orleans is known for its delicious cuisine and you can expect that the airport wont be much different. While I didn’t spend much time dining there due to my time constraints before my flight, the new airport does boast over 40+ new restaurants and bars, some of which are my personal local favorites.

One thing that can be said about the new MSY is that there isn’t a shortage of local flavors at your fingertips. No matter what concourse you turn to, you’ll find some appealing food options where you can get an authentic taste of New Orleans. For me, I was intrigued by the offerings in and near Concourse B, beginning with the hometown favorite Café Du Monde. Here you can grab an order of three powdered French doughnuts for breakfast, a light snack or even make it your dessert. If you’re a chicory coffee lover, a New Orleans staple, grab a cup of that too and hang out to eat at one of the high tables situated just down from the register. I should warn you though that much like the booming location situated across from St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter, the line was a bit long. But, at least here you don’t have to worry about the pigeons potentially stealing your food while you’re people watching, unless you’re into that sort of thing.

If you head deeper into Concourse B you will find an array of food options including Dook’s Burgers, City Greens, Mo Pho, Bar Sazerac and Emeril’s Table. And for those with a sweet tooth that Café du Monde just won't cure there’s also a gelato place, Angelo Brocato, serving up flavors like Salted Caramel, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Baci (Hazelnut Chocolate). Yum! It’s not my favorite gelato place in the city (Piccola Gelateria is – if you visit please tell Ria that Domonique sent you), but I’ve heard a lot of great things about it.

Another recommendation I have for you that leads right down to Concourse C is Leah's Kitchen, a nod to the late and great New Orleans Chef Leah Chase. Not only is she heralded for her delicious Creole cooking, but was also influential during the Civil Rights movement when she fed Freedom Riders, Presidents and civil rights activists including Martin Luther King Jr. Her legacy lives on in her restaurants inside and outside of MSY. If you find yourself in the airport, you definitely don’t want to miss tasting an important part of world history and enjoying the beautiful ambiance as well.

Do you know anyone that no matter where they travel in the world, they look for fast food options to eat? Kind of like being in Shanghai for the first time and only eating at McDonald’s the entire trip? Well, if you fall into that category or just simply love the American fast food options, don’t fret. You’ll find a Chick-fil-A, Chili’s, Auntie Anne’s, Panda Express and a Shake Shack between and within Concourses B and C. At least one of those options should soothe that fast food craving in no time.

A Little Bit of This and A Little Bit of That: My Recommendations on How to Spend Your Time @ MSY

If you want my overall foodie recommendations, I’d say head towards Concourse C to enjoy lunch or dinner at Leah’s Kitchen, an opportunity that you do not want to pass up. Afterwards, grab an adult beverage (if you’re over 21) at Cure that sits in Concourse C. This is one of my favorite local spots to grab a drink with friends, that’s somewhat off the beaten path. Their cocktail concoctions will certainly leave a lasting impression on you! Finally, to end your MSY eating experience head on over to Café Du Monde for an order of beignets near Concourse B. Most people enjoy a nice cup of joe with these French doughnuts, so Café Du Monde also serves up chicory coffee to accompany them. While I’m personally not a big fan of it, there is a Starbucks located right next door to this famous New Orleans essential just in case you’re looking for traditional coffee options. As a matter of fact, there are actually 3 Starbucks locations in the airport, one in each concourse. We went from having none to three, so needless to say I’m impressed.

Last but not least, if you’re looking for some shopping options, we definitely have room for improvement in this area. I was underwhelmed and expected to see some bigger name brand stores, but since we just opened I believe that this leaves some room for growth. However, I loved seeing homegrown shops throughout the airport such as NOLA Couture and Fleurty Girl. Swing by these shops to pick up unique gifts, souvenirs and novelty items made in New Orleans.

The Final Verdict on MSY

Overall I was impressed by the new terminal. While it is very modern, there were still traces of the city’s culture, food and spirit wherever you turned. From the selection of jazz music playing in the distance, to the paintings of second lines, to photos of Hurricane Katrina survivors, somehow in a city that is rooted in history, this airport managed to capture a snapshot of its essence.

As the holiday season is in full swing, everyone’s certainly making their list and checking it twice. For some of us the holidays mean that we’re traveling home through various airports to spend time with family and friends. For others who may be transplanted temporarily or permanently, you may be busy organizing your Friendsgiving plans where you’ll play games, drink and dance the night away. But for some, the holidays may mean spending time in smaller circles, with a significant other or even by yourself. Regardless of where you find yourself this holiday season I hope that you experience love, joy and peace, and if you happen to make it to the new terminal at MSY, I hope that your experience will be as pleasant as the one I had during my first flight here. Laissez les bon temps rouler! In other words, let the good times roll!

What’s your most and least favorite airport? Have you experienced the new terminal at MSY or will your travels bring you here in the near future? Let me know below in the comments?

As always, thank you for reading and Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours! :-)

-Dr. Dom

Welcome to The Big Easy: A travelers Look at The New Terminal @ louis armstrong international airport