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Tips for TSA wait times at New Orleans International Airport

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    Quick insights

    • There are several factors that can affect security wait times at New Orleans International Airport (MSY).
    • Local events like the New Orleans Jazz Festival and Mardi Gras can lead to longer wait times at the airport.
    • TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR Plus are programs that can help reduce security wait times at the airport.

    New Orleans International Airport, officially known as Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, is the primary commercial airport in the state of Louisiana. It is approximately 11 miles west of downtown New Orleans and offers a number of domestic and international flights.

    Security screening wait times at MSY can vary based on several factors. Read on to learn more about what to expect when going through security checkpoints at MSY.

    TSA wait times at MSY

    The airport has one terminal with three concourses: Concourse A, B and C. There is one security checkpoint for all three concourses. It is located on Level 2 of the terminal and open roughly from 3:30 a.m. until 30 minutes before the last scheduled departure flight.

    Security wait times at MSY can vary depending on the time of day and year as well as TSA staffing levels. Common peak travel times at many airports include:

    • Holidays
    • Spring break
    • Early mornings and early evenings
    • Fridays
    • Weekends

    In addition, local events—like the New Orleans Jazz Festival and Mardi Gras—may bring more travelers to the city and can affect wait times at the airport.

    When to arrive at MSY

    The Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) generally recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This allows ample time for security screening and may also help prevent issues that can happen when security wait times fluctuate.

    Checking wait times at MSY

    Travelers can check wait time averages via the MyTSA app. This mobile app by the TSA provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, as well as helpful tips for navigating security screening. However, wait times in the app are averages based on historical data and may not reflect real-time conditions.

    There also are third party websites that use historical data and real time traveler updates to provide information about wait times.

    Way to help reduce wait times at MSY

    MSY participates in a few programs that may help to expedite security processes and reduce wait times. They include:

    TSA PreCheck

    TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) run by the TSA. TSA PreCheck status can help streamline your airport experience by allowing you to access designated security screening lanes. You must enroll in the program, pay a fee and be approved before you can use designated TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport.

    CLEAR Plus

    CLEAR is a private security company that offers a membership called CLEAR Plus. CLEAR Plus uses biometric data to help expedite the identity verification part of the security screening process. Once verified, travelers can proceed to luggage screening lanes.

    CLEAR Plus can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck, but they are separate programs.

    What to do at MSY airport

    New Orleans is a vibrant city with a lot to do. It’s airport also carries this spirit. The airport features live music performances and art installations allowing passengers to enjoy local jazz music or admire local art while waiting for their flight.

    The airport also offers a variety of amenities and activities, including:

    • Dining: There are a wide range of dining options, from fast food chains to sit-down restaurants. You can enjoy local New Orleans cuisine, grab a quick sandwich or sit down for a full meal.
    • Shopping: Shop for travel essentials, souvenirs, books and more at one of the many shops at MSY.
    • Relaxation: There are airport lounges at MSY that provide complimentary snacks and beverages, private bathrooms and comfortable places to relax or work. Guests may need to purchase a day pass or have a membership to access the lounges.
    • Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to browse the internet, check your emails or stream your favorite shows while waiting for your flight.

    In summary

    Passengers arriving at MSY during peak travel times may experience longer than average wait times when getting though TSA security screening. Several factors play into how long TSA wait times can be at MSY but having CLEAR Plus and/or TSA PreCheck may help provide an expedited experience.

    If you want to check wait times prior to your arrival at the airport, you can download the My TSA app to review general wait time estimates based on historical data.  

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