Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is preparing for a major expansion, with plans for a second terminal and more gates announced in July 2025. This move comes as the airport faces growing passenger numbers and increased airline service, making it the most significant development since The North Terminal opened in 2019.
Airport officials confirmed that the second terminal project is now in advanced planning and design. While a formal construction start date has not been set, the New Orleans Aviation Board (NOAB) and city leaders have stated that site selection, environmental reviews, and early design work are already underway. The expansion will likely use land next to the current North Terminal, taking advantage of space made available by removing older buildings and moving airfield infrastructure.
The North Terminal, which opened in November 2019, has three concourses and 35 gates. It was built to handle more travelers, but recent growth has pushed the airport to its limits. In 2025, airlines like Breeze Airways added new nonstop flights to cities such as Myrtle Beach, Savannah, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles. More routes are expected in 2026, putting even more pressure on the airport’s current gates.
The planned second terminal is expected to add at least 15 to 20 new gates, which could bring the total number of gates at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to 50 or more. This increase will help the airport serve both domestic and international flights, with updated customs and security areas to make travel smoother for everyone.
Supporting projects are also in progress to prepare for the expansion. These include adding about 380 new parking spaces, building a North-South Connector Road to improve shuttle service, and creating new offices for the NOAB. One key project, moving the Airfield Lighting Vault, will clear the way for new terminal construction.
Erin Burns, Director of Communications for the NOAB, said, “We’re working to position us as a modern, global gateway.” She also highlighted the teamwork involved in updating both the airport’s look and its infrastructure. The NOAB is leading the expansion with help from the City of New Orleans, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, and federal agencies.
Gresham Smith, the architectural firm behind the North Terminal, is leading the design for the new terminal as well. AECOM Hunt, which managed the North Terminal’s construction, is now acting as a consultant and program manager for the new projects. These partnerships aim to keep the airport’s design modern and efficient while reflecting the unique culture of New Orleans.
For travelers, the expansion promises a better experience. More gates mean less crowding, more flight options, and better on-time performance. The airport plans to keep its focus on local culture, food, and art, which has helped it earn a reputation for being both efficient and welcoming.
The economic impact of the expansion will be significant. Hundreds of construction jobs will be created, along with long-term positions in aviation, hospitality, and related fields. The airport’s improved capacity is expected to boost tourism and business travel, supporting the local and regional economy.
Important
Environmental and community concerns are also being addressed. The new North-South Connector Road and other projects are designed to reduce traffic jams and cut emissions by making shuttle service more efficient. The airport is holding public surveys and workshops to get input from the community on design and branding decisions, ensuring that local voices are heard.
The step-by-step process for the expansion includes several key stages:
- Site Preparation and Enabling Projects
- Move the airfield lighting vault and tear down old buildings.
- Finish environmental studies and get the needed permits.
- Design and Stakeholder Engagement
- Hold design workshops with airlines, federal agencies, and community members.
- Create architectural plans and get airlines to commit to using the new gates.
- Funding and Approvals
- Secure money from federal grants, airport revenue bonds, and airline agreements.
- Get final approvals from the NOAB, City Council, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- Construction
- Start building the new terminal, parking lots, and roads in phases.
- Work with airlines and airport tenants to plan the move into new spaces.
- Commissioning and Opening
- Test all systems and train staff.
- Open the new gates and facilities in stages, aiming for full operation in the late 2020s.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport Expansion Timeline
Key milestones in the airport’s major expansion project
The history of Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport shows how much it has changed over the years. The original terminal, built in 1959, was replaced by the $1.3 billion North Terminal in 2019. The old terminal is now closed, and there is ongoing debate about whether to tear it down or use it for something else. The opening of the North Terminal was a turning point, making the airport one of the most modern and efficient in the United States 🇺🇸.
Looking ahead, the second terminal is expected to break ground within the next 12 to 24 months. The airport will likely open the new gates in phases, starting in the late 2020s. Once finished, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport will be able to handle many more passengers and flights, supporting the city’s growth as a tourist and business destination. The expansion will also include the latest airport technology, sustainability features, and passenger comforts to keep MSY competitive.
Airport officials stress that the expansion is about more than just adding space. They want to keep the airport’s unique New Orleans feel while making sure it can handle future growth. Airlines support the project because it will let them offer more routes and use larger planes. Community members appreciate the focus on local culture and better travel options, though some feel nostalgic about the old terminal. Experts in airport design point to MSY as a model for blending local culture with world-class facilities.
It’s important to note that, as of July 27, 2025, there is no final construction date for the second terminal. However, planning is moving quickly, and public statements from airport leaders show that the project is a top priority. All data and plans could change based on funding, government approvals, and airline market conditions.
For those seeking more information, the official website for Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport provides updates on the expansion and other projects. The site also offers contact details for press inquiries and public feedback. You can visit flymsy.com for the latest news and resources.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the major expansion at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is set to shape the future of air travel in New Orleans for years to come. The addition of a second terminal and more gates will help the airport keep up with rising demand, support the local economy, and maintain its reputation as a modern, passenger-friendly gateway to the United States 🇺🇸.
In summary, the next two to five years will bring big changes to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. With all stakeholders involved and careful planning underway, the airport is ready to meet the needs of travelers, airlines, and the community. The major expansion, including the second terminal and increased gate capacity, will ensure that MSY remains a leader among U.S. airports and a proud symbol of New Orleans’ growth and resilience.
Learn Today
Second Terminal → An additional passenger terminal to increase airport capacity and services.
NOAB → New Orleans Aviation Board, the airport authority overseeing expansion and operations.
North Terminal → The existing terminal opened in 2019 with 35 gates and three concourses.
Airfield Lighting Vault → A facility housing lighting equipment essential for airfield runway operations.
FAA → Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. agency regulating civil aviation and airport approvals.
This Article in a Nutshell
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport announced a major expansion featuring a second terminal to handle rising passengers. The project adds up to 20 gates, improves infrastructure with new roads and parking, and emphasizes local culture. Construction will start soon, boosting travel options and economic growth in New Orleans.
— By VisaVerge.com
