Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
New Orleans airport director outlines runway, parking and master-plan projects
Summary
Kevin D'Oleo, director of aviation, briefed the council on passenger catchment, recent air-service gains, concessions growth and major capital projects including a keel-section runway reconstruction, express shuttle connector road, baggage-system upgrades and an FAA master-plan review.
Kevin D'Oleo, director of aviation for Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, told the Saint Charles Parish Council on April 20 that the airport continues to expand air service and is undertaking several major projects to improve capacity and reliability.
D'Oleo said the airport draws passengers from a wide footprint — roughly as far east as Mobile and west toward Lake Charles — and noted carriers added new flights during 2025 and early 2026 despite a soft demand year nationally. He said concessions revenue and customer-service metrics have improved since the new terminal opened.
On capital projects, D'Oleo described a runway "keel" reconstruction — replacement of the center panels that take the most stress — that is due to be completed by the end of the year and is tracking ahead of schedule. He also highlighted an express shuttle connector road to move shuttle traffic off public roadways and eventually connect a future south-side passenger terminal expected with proposed regional rail links.
"We're replacing what's called the keel section, of the runway... it's due to be completed by the end of this year," D'Oleo said. He also discussed upgrades to the airport's baggage-inspection system and ongoing master-plan work that has been submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration for review.
The director noted parking improvements, including a reservation feature and a valet option intended to help local leisure travelers; the council also heard the airport has been recognized by Airports Council International (ACI) North America with multiple awards.
The airport presentation was delivered as part of the council's reports and did not require council action. D'Oleo took questions from councilmembers about project timing and impacts.
