Mayor Helena Moreno and the New Orleans Aviation Board, along with parish presidents from the Greater New Orleans Region, Greater New Orleans, Inc., and New Orleans & Co., announced on March 20 details of the new Master Plan for Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The plan outlines a strategic vision for long-term growth at the airport.
The Master Plan is significant because it aims to ensure that the airport can meet future demand while maintaining a high-quality experience for travelers. It was developed over two years with input from airlines, regional leaders, economic development and hospitality partners, and members of the public.
“MSY continues to perform at a high level, serving nearly 12.5 million passengers and earning national recognition for excellence,” said Mayor Helena Moreno. “The Master Plan will guide the next phase, keeping our airport efficient, modern, and ready for New Orleans’ continued growth.”
Honorable Michael Bagneris, Chair of the New Orleans Aviation Board, said: “We are taking a proactive approach to growth by planning ahead rather than reacting to it. This Master Plan reflects strong collaboration across our region and ensures that our Airport remains competitive, efficient and ready to support future generations of travelers and businesses.”
Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation MSY, added: “With this Master Plan, we are positioning ourselves to ensure the Airport is ready with the necessary space as our region continues to grow the economy and attract new businesses and visitors. We’re not only improving the travel experience for millions of visitors but also creating jobs and positioning our region as a leader in innovative transportation infrastructure.”
The plan includes redevelopment of the South Campus with demolition of older terminal sections to allow for aeronautical uses such as aircraft maintenance operations, air cargo expansion, hangar development, and other aviation-related activities. The airport has submitted its Master Plan to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for final acceptance.
Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng said: “We are so proud that the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is located in Jefferson Parish and recognize the economic impact it brings to our residents, businesses, and the entire region. The MSY Master Plan represents important investments that will strengthen both our infrastructure and our economy. Jefferson Parish is committed to working alongside airport leadership…to support the airport’s continued growth.”
Current capital improvement projects include an $84.5 million Express Shuttle Connector Road project; expansion of checked baggage screening systems; rehabilitation of a runway costing $27.1 million; and construction soon beginning on 400 additional parking spaces near the terminal.
St. Charles Parish President Matthew Jewell said: “This new terminal will not only enhance travel but also strengthen logistics, workforce mobility, and our ability to attract and retain major companies. This is a win for the entire Southeast Louisiana region.”
The airport has received several awards including induction into Airports Council International World Roll of Excellence after five consecutive years ranking as Best Airport in North America in its size category by ACI World’s survey program; being ranked number one Large Airport in North America by J.D. Power in 2021; and receiving Best Customer Experience Programs award from ACI-North America in 2025.
Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans Inc., said: “Regions that compete and win economically are ones that invest in connectivity…This is how Greater New Orleans builds a more competitive regional economy…” Walt Leger III from New Orleans & Company added: “Modern economies compete on connectivity…Expanding our airport strengthens New Orleans’ role as a global city…and ultimately helps us become an even better place to live, work, learn and visit.”
