Navigating your way from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to the vibrant French Quarter is the first step in experiencing the unique charm of New Orleans. After a flight, efficient and reliable transportation is key to starting your trip smoothly. While various options exist, the Airport Shuttle service offers a direct and convenient link to the heart of the French Quarter. This guide provides everything you need to know about utilizing the Airport Shuttle for your transportation needs.
Airport Shuttle: Your Direct Connection to the French Quarter
The official ground transportation provider for MSY, the Airport Shuttle, is designed to get you to your French Quarter destination safely and efficiently. Forget the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or waiting in long taxi queues. The shuttle service provides a cost-effective and shared ride option, perfect for individuals and small groups heading to hotels, accommodations, and even cruise terminals within the French Quarter and surrounding areas.
Finding Your Shuttle at MSY
Upon arrival at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, locating your shuttle is straightforward. Simply follow the clearly marked “Ground Transportation” or “Airport Shuttle” signs within the terminal. After collecting your baggage, proceed to the ground level where you’ll find the designated Airport Shuttle pickup area just outside the baggage claim. Keep an eye out for the white vans prominently displaying the yellow “Airport Shuttle” logo on their sides – your ride to the French Quarter awaits!
An Airport Shuttle sign directs passengers at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, ensuring easy navigation for ground transportation.
Destinations Covered: French Quarter and Beyond
The Airport Shuttle service is not limited to just the French Quarter. It offers extensive coverage to key areas including Downtown and Uptown New Orleans hotels, the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, and even the Cruise Ship Terminals. However, for travelers specifically heading to the French Quarter, the shuttle provides a direct and hassle-free route, dropping you off at or near your hotel or desired location within this historic neighborhood. This targeted service makes it an ideal choice when the French Quarter is your final destination.
Returning to MSY from the French Quarter
When it’s time to depart from New Orleans and head back to MSY, the Airport Shuttle offers convenient return services from the French Quarter. Simply look for the Airport Shuttle vans parked directly in front of your hotel or designated departure location approximately 5 to 7 minutes prior to your scheduled pickup time. Punctuality is key, ensuring you reach the airport with ample time for check-in and security procedures.
Essential Information for Your Shuttle Journey
To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience with the Airport Shuttle, here’s some crucial information to keep in mind:
Schedule and Departure Times
Shuttles operate every day of the year, providing consistent and reliable transportation regardless of your travel dates. Vans depart from MSY to the French Quarter and other destinations approximately every 30 minutes, between the hours of 5:55 AM and 10:00 PM. This frequent schedule minimizes wait times and allows for flexible travel planning.
Booking Your Tickets
Purchasing your Airport Shuttle tickets is convenient and can be done in advance or upon arrival. The easiest method is online booking through the official Airport Shuttle New Orleans website. Alternatively, you can purchase tickets in person at the Airport Shuttle Ticket Desk, located on the ground level of the airport, directly across from the baggage claim area. For those preferring phone reservations, you can call 866-596-2699. Payment options are flexible, with VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover accepted, along with cash for in-person purchases at the airport. Remember to collect your luggage before purchasing tickets at the airport desk.
For return reservations from the French Quarter to MSY, it’s recommended to call (504) 522-3500 or (866) 596-2699 at least 24 hours prior to your flight departure to secure your spot.
Costs, Luggage, and Practicalities
The current fare for the Airport Shuttle is $30 one-way or $56 round trip per person, offering a budget-friendly transportation option compared to private taxis or ride-sharing services. Each passenger is allowed three average-sized bags free of charge. However, oversized or additional luggage may incur extra fees, and it’s important to note that vehicles are not equipped to handle oversized equipment or very large items.
A white Airport Shuttle van with yellow lettering stands ready to transport passengers from the airport to various destinations in New Orleans.
While child car seats or booster seats are not provided, travelers are welcome to bring and use their own if desired. While gratuity for the driver is not included in the fare, it is customary to tip for good service. It’s also important to be aware that shuttle tickets are non-refundable, so plan your travel accordingly.
Group Travel and Accessibility
For larger groups traveling together to the French Quarter, the Airport Shuttle offers special arrangements and potentially lower fares. For detailed information and group bookings, visit the Airport Shuttle New Orleans Conventions and Groups page.
Wheelchair accessible vehicles are available for passengers with mobility needs. However, these require advance booking, ideally one week prior to arrival. To arrange for an accessible vehicle, please call 866-596-2699 or visit www.airportshuttleneworleans.com.
Start Your French Quarter Adventure with Ease
Choosing the Airport Shuttle for your transportation from MSY to the French Quarter is a smart decision for a comfortable, reliable, and cost-effective journey. Avoid the stress of navigating unfamiliar transport systems and begin your New Orleans experience the moment you arrive. With direct service to the French Quarter and convenient booking options, the Airport Shuttle is your ideal partner for seamless airport transfers.
