Navigating Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is straightforward because the entire facility operates out of a single, modern centralized terminal. Opened in late 2019, this layout replaces older, fragmented concourses with one streamlined building split into three distinct concourses: A, B, and C. Whether you're catching a domestic hopper or returning from an international trip, understanding how the levels and gates connect saves you time and prevents pre-flight panic.
The main terminal spans three primary levels. Level 1 handles arrivals and baggage claim, Level 2 houses the main security checkpoint and departures processing, and Level 3 contains airline ticketing desks. Because security feeds into a unified post-security area, you can easily walk between Concourses A, B, and C once you're past the checkpoint, giving you full access to local New Orleans eateries, retail shops, and live music spots without leaving the secure zone.
Terminal Layout and Floor Levels
Understanding the vertical stack of the MSY terminal helps you move from curbside to your gate without backtracking. Here is how the three levels function:
- Level 1 (Baggage Claim): Passengers arriving at MSY land here to collect checked bags. Ground transportation, including app-based ride shares, taxis, and rental car shuttles, picks up right outside the main doors.
- Level 2 (Departures and Security): This is where you enter if you check in online. You'll pass through the single centralized security checkpoint before branching out toward the boarding gates.
- Level 3 (Ticketing): If you need to check physical bags or print boarding passes with a live agent, head straight to the top level via the curbside drop-off lanes.
Concourse Breakdown and Gate Maps
Once you clear the security checkpoint on Level 2, you enter the central hub. From here, walkways branch off into three specific concourses. Each concourse handles specific airlines and features localized amenities.
Concourse A
Concourse A sits on the western side of the terminal structure. It primarily serves a mix of domestic carriers.
- Gate Range: Features gates designated for specific regional and major airline operations.
- Amenities: You'll find quick-service grab-and-go options, retail kiosks, and easy access to nearby nursing facilities.
Concourse B
Concourse B occupies the central position of the terminal layout and handles heavy traffic from several major domestic airlines.
- Gate Range: Numbered sequentially from B2 through B16 (excluding B13).
- Amenities: This concourse features popular local dining concepts alongside national staples like Starbucks, making it a prime spot to grab a final po'boy or coffee before boarding.
Concourse C
Concourse C is positioned on the eastern side and handles a large share of mainline domestic flights as well as international arrivals.
- Gate Range: Extends down a longer corridor accommodating larger aircraft.
- Amenities: Because it processes international flights, Concourse C connects directly to customs and border processing facilities for arrivals, alongside duty-free shopping and premium airline lounges.
Security Checkpoints and Transit Tips
MSY utilizes a single massive security checkpoint setup on Level 2. While this consolidates lines into one main area, peak travel times during morning banks or festival weekends can cause bottlenecks.
- TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes operate directly within the main checkpoint to speed up screening for enrolled travelers.
- Give yourself at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours for international flights, especially if you need to check bags on Level 3.
- If you're parking, note that the short-term garage is directly adjacent to the terminal, while economy lots require a short shuttle ride. Always check the official MSY Airport Website for real-time parking availability before driving in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid at MSY
Travelers often stumble over a few specific logistical layout traps when visiting New Orleans for the first time:
- Heading to the old terminal: Ride-share drivers and outdated GPS units occasionally route passengers to the old south terminal site. Make sure your destination is set to 1 Terminal Drive in Kenner, Louisiana.
- Confusing ticketing and baggage levels: Dropping passengers off on Level 1 instead of Level 3 forces you to drag luggage up elevators or escalators. Use Level 3 for departures drop-off.
- Forgetting post-security connectivity: Many assume once they walk down Concourse B they are locked into that zone. Because MSY links all concourses post-security, you can explore food options across different fingers before heading to your actual boarding gate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you walk between all concourses at MSY?
Yes. Once you clear the main security checkpoint on Level 2, a continuous walkway connects Concourses A, B, and C. You don't need to re-clear security to visit restaurants or shops in other concourses.
Where is rideshare pickup located?
App-based ride services like Uber and Lyft pick up on the ground level (Level 1) outside the main baggage claim terminal area. Follow the overhead signs toward the designated ground transportation zones.
Are there luggage storage lockers inside MSY?
For security reasons, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport does not offer public lockers or luggage storage inside the terminal. You must check bags with your airline or keep them with you.
Where can I find airline lounges?
MSY features multiple lounges, including the Delta Sky Club, United Club, and The Club MSY. These are positioned past security near the main concourse connectors, accessible via membership programs, day passes, or eligible credit cards.
