Search

1st Lake Blog

Let’s Fly Away: International Flights from Louis Armstrong Airport

Louis Armstrong Airport is truly undergoing a renaissance. In addition to a new, upcoming terminal and new restaurants on-site (planned vendors for the terminal expansion include Pizza Domenica, Mondo, Mopho, and Emeril’s Table), MSY is also adding new international flights to its roster. Keep reading to plan your dream international vacation — we’ve got the scoop on where to go and what to pack so you always feel at home.

Where to Go from Louis Armstrong Airport

London — British Airways announced its exciting new nonstop from New Orleans to London last year… and now flights are finally available starting March 27. The global culture and ancient history of this premiere city is just a direct flight away; there’s truly no reason not to take advantage of this amazing new offering from Louis Armstrong Airport!

Panama — Some call Panama the gateway to the Americas, but it’s also a destination in and of itself. Whether you choose to stay in Panama or use the direct flight on Copa Airlines to venture into other nearby Central and South American countries like Costa Rica or Colombia, your flight will be quick and easy — it’s only 3 1/2 hours long!

Frankfurt — Frankfurt is one of the largest, busiest airports in the world that offers easy access to other countries in Europe and Asia. You may choose the direct flight to Frankfurt as your connection to nearly anywhere else in the world, or you might decide to stay and explore Germany. Frankfurt is a truly European-style destination with historic landmarks, botanical gardens, museums, performing arts venues, and so much more; it’s also just a train ride away from Germany’s capital, Berlin.

Cancun — Your beach getaway just got a lot more exotic with direct flights available seasonally to Cancun. Revel in the surf and the sun on a flight that clocks in at under 2 hours!

Punta Cana — This gem of the Dominican Republic is another must-do beach destination available seasonally. You’ll be treated to incredible resorts, beautiful ocean views, and the laid-back style of the Caribbean.

Toronto — Spend your vacay on the shores of Lake Ontario with a flight to Toronto. This cosmopolitan city is a prominent location for films, music, and the performing arts. Get a view of it all from the city’s famous CN Tower.

What to Pack for an Overseas Flight

Of course, you’ll want to prepare for weather and desired activities (are you envisioning a fancy night out? A heart-pumping hike? Pack accordingly!) wherever you’re headed, but there are a few things you can bring with you to stay relaxed and feel at home on a long flight. You’ll arrive feeling refreshed, not frazzled.

  • Noise-canceling headphones — Crying baby? What crying baby?
  • USB battery pack — A backup battery means you can Netflix binge without worrying about draining your phone!
  • Lightweight scarf, jacket, or blanket — Planes get chilly, after all.
  • Travel pillow — Pick one up at the airport if you forget to bring your own. The last thing you want when you land is a sore neck!
  • Address of where you’re staying — This sounds obvious, but have the address written down or committed to memory. Customs agents may ask when you land, and you’ll certainly want to direct your cab driver to the correct place.
  • Care pack — Pack a quart-size, clear plastic zip bag with items like moisturizer, eye drops, Tylenol, Alka-Seltzer, chapstick, and Emergen-C. Sometimes, long flights are just plain uncomfortable, but these items can help!