New Orleans airport reports near‑2019 passenger levels, new routes and master-plan wrap-up

Kevin Doleo, director of aviation, gave a biannual update to the St. Charles Parish Council on April 7, reporting passenger traffic, new air service and progress on a facility master plan.

Doleo said the airport served about 13.2 million passengers in 2024, roughly 97% of its 2019 total. He said passenger volumes are up 3.6% year over year and highlighted new nonstop routes, including Alaska Airlines service to Portland and VELO Airlines service to New Haven, Connecticut. British Airways service to London has increased frequencies during peak periods and several carriers are expanding or adjusting schedules.

Doleo also detailed nonairline developments: valet parking and a parking-reservation system sell specific facilities in advance, and a 15-minute economy-shuttle guarantee has rarely been invoked. He noted concessions revenue is 34% higher than in 2019 despite slightly lower passenger volumes.

The airport is finalizing a master plan that shows a need for additional gate and terminal capacity over the next 15 years; Doleo said staff are finalizing a capital program and financing plan, with a public hearing expected in short order and a plan completion targeted by summer.

No council actions were required; the presentation was provided as an informational update.