Louisiana Airports

Louisiana airports are generally the portal into the state for most visitors traveling from outside of the southern United States. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is the main airport in New Orleans and one of the busiest. It is located roughly ten miles to the west of the city and handles a large majority of domestic flights. The airport in New Orleans is the gateway to an incredibly diverse and vibrant city that still shows signs of recovery from the ravages of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The historic French Quarter was miraculously spared from any major destruction and is thriving alongside the rest of the city today.

Visitors flying into Louisiana airports can easily get to their final destinations several different ways. For international visitors, Louisiana airport shuttles might be the best way to reach a hotel or friend or family's home. A shuttle ride is available right outside the airport in New Orleans, as well as conveniently located at all other airports. Most shuttles have a limit of three bags per passenger and offer one-way and round-trip tickets. Reservations are recommended, but not always necessary.

The shuttles at the Baton Rouge Airport can get extremely busy and advance reservations for taxis and shuttles are advised. Baton Rouge Airport shuttles and taxis are located right outside of the baggage claim area. Five major companies offer car rentals onsite with advanced reservations. Rental transportation can be a great way to travel in Baton Rouge, just keep in mind that many Baton Rouge hotels charge a fee for parking. Traveler's have access to a huge number of amenities and services inside the airport. A large business center, curbside check-in, a food court, gift shops, and a reading room are all available. There are a number of restaurants in the airport as well, from casual to fine dining.

Of the twelve Louisiana airports, eight are located in the southern region in New Orleans, Houma, Morgan City, Lafayette, Opelousas, and the Baton Rouge Airport. Lake Charles and Eunice also have airports. The airport in New Orleans offers easy access to The Union Passenger Terminal, which is home to the Greyhound bus service. Visitors will find direct bus service to Baton Rouge—a two hour trip—Atlanta, and Memphis. There is a long list of facilities for travelers at the airport in New Orleans, including services and facilities for the disabled, some airline lounges, baggage storage, a post office, and Wi-Fi access.

Visitors will find landing at most Louisiana airports to be fairly hassle free. One festival of note is Mardi Gras, and when Mardi Gras approaches, the state seems to run a little wild. As with any major events, visitors should head in prepared for longer wait times, stricter regulations, and tight security measures. Once out of the airport, the same hectic vine is felt throughout major cities across the state. If you're traveling anytime approaching or during this festival, book flights well in advance and make sure Louisiana hotels are also booked well in advance or you'll be right out of luck.