Exploring The Busy New Orleans Airport

New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport is a busy transport hub, serving thousands of passengers each year. The airport is open 24 hours a day, and its security checkpoint is open from 3:30 a.m. until 30 minutes before the last scheduled departure. Peak times for security include 5-6 a.m., 10-11 a.m., and 3-4 p.m. daily, with wait times varying from 5 minutes to over an hour and a half. The airport has introduced new technology to speed up security, including CT scanning machines and automated bin systems, in anticipation of peak tourism seasons.

Peak times for security

The security checkpoint at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is open from 3:30 a.m. until 30 minutes before the last scheduled departure time. Peak times for security include 5–6 a.m., 10–11 a.m., and 3–4 p.m. daily. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight time, especially if they are checking baggage.

The airport advises that several factors can affect wait times, such as the volume of travellers due to events, conferences, and holidays, as well as the number of passengers bringing prohibited items. Additionally, airlines reconfiguring flight times due to weather or adding extra flights can contribute to longer wait times.

To streamline your experience and ensure a quick and hassle-free journey through security, it is advisable to follow the airline's guidance on baggage allowance and bring only the essential items. Signing up for expedited security programs like CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck can also help you move faster through dedicated lanes.

TSA PreCheck

To enrol in TSA PreCheck, travellers can visit the iFly TSA PreCheck Guide for comprehensive information. The MyTSA app also provides passengers with 24/7 access to estimated security wait times, a searchable database of items that can and can't be taken in carry-on bags, and helpful tips for preparing for security.

CLEAR Plus

In addition, CLEAR Plus members can take advantage of the Ambassador Assist service, which guides members every step of the way through select airports. This service is currently exclusive to CLEAR Plus members and is available at the New Orleans International Airport.

For those who want to avoid the unpredictability of standard airport security, CLEAR Plus offers a fast and easy alternative. Members can simply verify their identity at a pod in one of the CLEAR Lanes without needing to make a reservation in advance. This can be particularly useful for those who frequently fly and want to streamline their airport experience.

For those who want to try CLEAR Plus, there is currently a promotion offering 2 months free at the New Orleans Airport. This promotion also allows members to add up to 3 family members to the trial.

Lost and found

If you have lost an item at the New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport, there are a few different lost and found options available to you, depending on where you lost your item.

Lost at a TSA Security Checkpoint

If you believe you lost your item at a TSA checkpoint or in checked baggage, you should contact the TSA Lost and Found department. You can reach them by calling +1-504-463-2252 or by emailing [email protected]. Make sure to provide a comprehensive description of your item, including any unique features, to help with its identification and recovery.

Lost in Public Areas of the Terminal

The Customer Service Department handles items lost in the public areas of the terminal (excluding concourse checkpoints, which are managed by the TSA). You can find the Customer Service Office in the Baggage Claim area on Level 1, near Door 6. It is open from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. You can contact them during office hours at (504) 303-7790 or reach out to AVCOM at (504) 303-7700 for after-hours assistance.

Lost in the Rental Car Facility or on the Rental Car Shuttle

Items left in the Rental Car Facility or on the Rental Car Shuttle are brought to the Rental Car Facility Lost and Found. Call 615-571-0978 for assistance. If you left an item in a rental car, contact your rental car agency directly.

Lost on an Aircraft

If you believe you left your item on an aircraft, contact your airline directly to report and recover the lost item.

Additional Information

Items turned into the Airport Lost and Found are typically kept for 60 days. However, certain exceptions apply, such as knowingly abandoned items, which are donated after 24 hours, and credit or debit cards, which are destroyed after 24 hours.

Pick-up and drop-off

The outermost lane, which is clearly marked, is designated for taxis only. This lane is positioned closest to the airport doors for convenient passenger access. Moving inwards, the next two lanes are dedicated to standard pick-up and drop-off for private vehicles. After passing the taxi area, drivers can veer towards the sidewalks in this section.

For those using ride-hailing apps such as Uber or Lyft, the innermost lanes are specifically allocated for this purpose. Passengers exiting the airport need to cross the crosswalk to reach these lanes, providing a clear and safe path.

To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to be mindful of peak hours at the airport, which include 5–6 a.m., 10–11 a.m., and 3–4 p.m. daily. During these times, the airport experiences higher traffic, and allowing for some extra time can help prevent delays.

Frequently asked questions