$19 Cheap Flights to New Orleans, LA

Flights to New Orleans at a glance

Traveling to New Orleans is easy—just choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare flight durations and select the option that best fits your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

• Major airport in New Orleans: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• Flights per week: 3,550+ flights arriving at New Orleans airport
• Number of airlines that fly to New Orleans: around 35+ carriers

Popular airport in New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant metropolis ideal for family getaways, outdoor adventures, and city vacations. Visitors flock to this cultural hub for its rich offerings in business, family activities, and outdoor experiences. The city is conveniently accessible via a major airport.

• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Situated in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, this airport provides access to a wide range of domestic and international flights, linking travelers to approximately 225 cities within the U.S. and about 100 destinations worldwide. Passengers can opt for enhanced comfort by upgrading to premium economy, first class, or business class seating, depending on their chosen route and airline. Key carriers operating from this airport include American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines.

Top routes to New Orleans

• New York (JFK/LGA) to New Orleans (MSY), with one-way airfare from around $70
• Chicago (ORD/MDW) to New Orleans (MSY), with one-way fares starting at around $75
• Boston (BOS) to New Orleans (MSY), with one-way flights starting at around $85
• Los Angeles (LAX) to New Orleans (MSY), with one-way airfare from around $90
• Newark (EWR) to New Orleans (MSY), with one-way flights starting at around $75

Cheapest routes to New Orleans

• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to New Orleans (MSY), with affordable one-way prices from around $30
• Dallas (DFW/DAL) to New Orleans (MSY), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Orlando (MCO) to New Orleans (MSY), with budget one-way fares from around $40
• Atlanta (ATL) to New Orleans (MSY), with low one-way fares from around $40
• Miami (MIA) to New Orleans (MSY), with budget one-way fares from around $45

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to New Orleans

• American Airlines: Serving Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), this airline represents about 29% of arrivals in New Orleans. The typical one-way fare hovers around $310, with a premium cabin option that may include first class, depending on the route.
• Delta: Operating at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), Delta accounts for approximately 23% of arrivals in the city. Average one-way fares are around $280, and premium service options may feature both premium economy and first class, subject to the specific route.
• Southwest Airlines: This carrier flies into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and makes up roughly 21% of arrivals to New Orleans. Travelers can expect average one-way fares of about $220.
• United: At Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), United contributes nearly 18% of arrivals to New Orleans. The average one-way ticket costs around $290, and premium service choices may include both premium economy and first class, depending on the flight route.
• Frontier Airlines: Operating flights to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), Frontier Airlines accounts for roughly 3% of arrivals in New Orleans. The average one-way fare is approximately $140, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Best time to fly to New Orleans

The most popular months for travelers to fly to New Orleans are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in New Orleans can reach up to 69.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 83.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $193), roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, October, and May offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $195 to $207, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to New Orleans

Getting some of the best deals on flights to New Orleans is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our New Orleans hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your New Orleans flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in New Orleans

New Orleans welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach New Orleans efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, South Carrollton at Saint Charles Stop, a metro station, is about 8 miles from the airport, providing easy access to the city.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in New Orleans, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in New Orleans is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in New Orleans on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in New Orleans

• Metairie: Metairie is located in the area of New Orleans and offers a vibrant blend of family-friendly activities and urban experiences. Visitors can explore the lush Lafreniere Park, perfect for outdoor adventures, or delve into the rich culture at the historic Tulane University. The Metairie Business District is an excellent spot for shopping and dining, making it ideal for those looking to combine business with leisure. With its array of educational venues and event spaces, Metairie is an exciting destination for travelers seeking a dynamic city experience.
• Kenner: Kenner is located in the area of New Orleans and is known for its family-oriented atmosphere and outdoor options. The Pontchartrain Center serves as a hub for entertainment, hosting various events that cater to diverse interests. Highway Park is a favorite among families for its eco-friendly environment, while Tulane University adds a touch of historic charm to the area. With shopping malls and recreational facilities nearby, Kenner is a great choice for travelers wanting to enjoy both nature and city life.
• Slidell: Slidell is located in the area of New Orleans and entices visitors with its romantic settings and outdoor adventures. Known for its scenic attractions, Fontainebleau State Park offers breathtaking landscapes and activities for nature lovers. The NASA Stennis Space Center provides an educational experience, appealing to those interested in space exploration. Camp Salmen Nature Park is also a perfect spot for family outings, featuring trails and natural beauty. Slidell’s combination of outdoor recreation and charm makes it a captivating destination for travelers.

Tips for short-haul flights to New Orleans

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize your space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning versatile outfits. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to New Orleans

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines provide seat selection even earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

New Orleans Flights

New Orleans Airports

It’s simple to arrive in the Big Easy when you fly into the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Located roughly 15 miles east of downtown New Orleans, this Louisiana airport is just a stone’s throw from all the Crescent City jazz music, Creole cuisine, and antebellum culture. Book cheap flights to New Orleans through this airport for easy access to all the city’s top attractions.

Louis Armstrong International Airport provides a number of amenities to meet your needs while you’re traveling through your terminal. When hunger strikes, grab a sandwich or slice of pizza on the go, or sit down for a meal at one of the restaurants. The airport also features several newsstands and gift shops, so you can pick up snacks and entertainment for your flight or last-minute souvenirs. What’s more, if you’re traveling with a service animal, you’ll find relief stations near baggage claim. Check out more information about Louis Armstrong Int. Airport.

Airport Transportation

Once you’ve booked your flights to New Orleans, take advantage of the various transportation options. Reserve one of the New Orleans car rentals right here to have your own set of wheels waiting upon your arrival, or go the fancy route and book a limousine to arrive in style. The city bus, Airport-Downtown Express, services the airport, but if you’d prefer to avoid public transportation, taxis are available around the clock, too.

New Orleans Activities

Of all the things to do in New Orleans, the French Quarter is among the most popular tourist attractions. Home to historical Jackson Square and the party scene on Bourbon Street, the French Quarter also boasts boutique shops, authentic Creole and Cajun restaurants, and intricate architecture. While you’re in town, listen to the live music streaming through streets and night clubs, and discover why they call it the birthplace of jazz. After dancing and eating your way through the city, rest up at one of the best hotels in New Orleans.

Planning Your Trip

When you’re looking to reserve airfare to New Orleans, consider visiting between September and January. The temperatures, ranging anywhere between the 60s and 80s F, have cooled off from the scorching summer. February through May is when the city comes alive with festivals and celebrations, but this is also when tourists flock to the city, making hotel rooms scarce and sometimes more expensive.

Regardless of when you decide to visit, turn to us here at Expedia.com to score affordable plane tickets to New Orleans, LA. You’ll find all kinds of options to match your travel preferences, such as direct flights, a variety of flight times, and your favorite airlines. When you bundle your vacation package, such as your New Orleans flights and hotels, you can save up to $570. For additional travel perks, sign up for our Expedia Rewards program and earn upgrades. Browse through our airfare and book your travel arrangements today so you can chow down on gumbo and jambalaya in no time.