Navigating Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) can be a challenge, especially during peak travel periods like holidays and weekends when passenger traffic surges. Long TSA security lines can add unexpected delays to your journey, making it crucial to plan. The average TSA wait time at Louis Armstrong Airport (MSY) hovers around 7 minutes; it can vary significantly depending on the time and day. To make your travel smoother, staying informed about current security wait times is key.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know regarding Louis Armstrong Airport TSA wait times, tips on the best times to fly, so you can breeze through security and travel comfortably.
Louis Armstrong Airport TSA Wait Times Hourly Schedule
TSA wait times at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport can vary widely depending on the time of day. Check the average wait times below to help you pick the best time to arrive.
| Time Range (AM/PM) | Average Wait Time |
|---|---|
| 2 am – 3 am | 0.0 minutes |
| 3 am – 4 am | 5.7 minutes |
| 4 am – 5 am | 13.4 minutes |
| 5 am – 6 am | 19.1 minutes |
| 6 am – 7 am | 27.4 minutes |
| 7 am – 8 am | 14.2 minutes |
| 8 am – 9 am | 5.1 minutes |
| 9 am – 10 am | 26.4 minutes |
| 10 am – 11 am | 6.1 minutes |
| 11 pm – 12 am | 32.1 minutes |
| 11 am – 12 pm | 17.4 minutes |
| 12 pm – 1 pm | 19.6 minutes |
| 1 pm – 2 pm | 12.6 minutes |
| 2 pm – 3 pm | 4.5 minutes |
| 3 pm – 4 pm | 26.1 minutes |
| 4 pm – 5 pm | 36.1 minutes |
| 5 pm – 6 pm | 7.1 minutes |
| 6 pm – 7 pm | 36.1 minutes |
| 7 pm – 8 pm | 24.8 minutes |
| 8 pm – 9 pm | 10.4 minutes |
| 9 pm – 10 pm | 0.0 minutes |
| 10 pm – 11 pm | 19.1 minutes |
MSY Security Checkpoints: Operating Hours & Locations
Each security checkpoint is reachable from any concourse or gate. Listed below are the types of screenings and their operating hours for every checkpoint.
| Checkpoint Location | Screening Type | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Terminal Main | Standard Screening | 24 Hours |
| Domestic Terminal North | Standard Screening, Priority Screening | 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM |
| Domestic Terminal Lower North | Standard Screening, CLEAR+ Standard | 3:30 AM to 11:00 PM |
| Domestic Terminal South | TSA PreCheck, CLEAR+ w/ PreCheck | 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM |
| International Terminal Departures | Standard Screening, TSA PreCheck | 4:30 AM to 12:00 AM |
TSA PreCheck at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that speeds up the security process at participating airports. Eligible passengers can access a faster screening lane where certain security requirements are relaxed. With TSA PreCheck, you don’t have to remove your shoes, belt, or light jacket, and you can keep your laptop and 3-1-1 liquids inside your carry-on bag, which can save you time and make your travel experience more comfortable.
Where is TSA PreCheck Available at MSY Airport?
MSY has one main terminal that houses three concourses: B, C, and D. The security checkpoint for all concourses is located centrally in the terminal on Level 2. This means that TSA PreCheck lanes are also available here, and you will use the same screening area regardless of whether your departure gate is in Concourse B, C, or D.
Note: Currently, Concourses B, C, and D are closed for certain operations at MSY. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about TSA PreCheck availability, security procedures, and terminal access, please visit the official MSY Airport website.
Quick Tips to Avoid Long Lines at MSY Airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) offers a few convenient programs that can help travelers breeze through security faster:
- TSA PreCheck: TSA PreCheck is a government-run Trusted Traveler Program that allows approved passengers to use expedited security lanes. With PreCheck, you’ll typically experience shorter lines and a simplified screening process, with no need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets. Enrollment requires an application, background check, and a fee, but once approved, your trips through security can be much quicker.
- CLEAR Plus: CLEAR Plus is a subscription service provided by a private company, using biometric identification, like fingerprint or iris scans, to confirm your identity quickly at the airport. Once verified, members move directly to the physical screening area, skipping the standard ID check line.
You can use CLEAR Plus on its own or combine it with TSA PreCheck for an even faster airport experience. While these services work separately, together they can significantly reduce the time you spend in security lines at MSY Airport.
Commonly Asked Questions
The average TSA wait time at MSY Airport is 7 minutes. To check the current wait time, visit flymsy.com.
It’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight, especially during peak travel times or busy seasons.
Yes. MSY offers TSA PreCheck lanes, which allow eligible passengers to go through expedited screening without removing shoes, belts, laptops, or light jackets.
Yes, CLEAR Plus is available at MSY. It allows members to verify their identity using biometrics, then skip the ID check and head straight to the security screening area.
Yes. You can use the MyTSA mobile app to view estimated wait times based on historical data. While not real-time, it helps you get a sense of how busy security might be.
Wait times can vary due to flight volume, TSA staffing, weather delays, and unforeseen operational issues. Arriving early and using programs like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR can help reduce delays.