Passenger Rail Line Needs Airport Stop Between New Orleans and Baton Rouge

Advocates argue a direct connection to the airport is crucial for successful service.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 12:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Building a successful passenger rail corridor between New Orleans and Baton Rouge faces several challenges, including navigating the complex freight rail network in the region. One key issue raised is the need for the rail line to include a stop at the New Orleans airport, which would provide an important connection for travelers. Advocates suggest an alternative route along the old L&A rail corridor could allow for an airport station while avoiding interference from freight trains.

Why it matters

Connecting the New Orleans-Baton Rouge passenger rail line directly to the airport is seen as crucial for the service's success and ridership. The airport stop would provide an essential link for travelers, but coordinating with the multiple freight rail operators in the area presents a significant hurdle.

The details

The Louisiana Association of Railroad Passengers has long advocated for passenger rail service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. One of the biggest challenges is traversing the freight rail corridor in Jefferson Parish, which would require coordination with six Class 1 railroads and the New Orleans Public Belt. Even if that alliance can be formed, the track rights would pass far from the airport. An alternative route along the old L&A rail corridor on the riverside of Airline Drive could allow for a station near the old airport terminal and avoid freight rail interference.

  • Amtrak's Mardi Gras service between New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama has been operating twice daily since an undisclosed date.
  • The Louisiana Association of Railroad Passengers has been advocating for passenger rail service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge since 1980.

The players

Louisiana Association of Railroad Passengers

A nonprofit organization that has been advocating for improved passenger rail service in Louisiana, including a line between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, since 1980.

CSX

One of the Class 1 freight railroads that would need to cooperate for a successful New Orleans-Baton Rouge passenger rail line.

Norfolk Southern

One of the Class 1 freight railroads that would need to cooperate for a successful New Orleans-Baton Rouge passenger rail line.

New Orleans Public Belt

A railroad that would need to be involved in coordinating the New Orleans-Baton Rouge passenger rail line.

CPKC

The railroad that the passenger rail line could merge onto to progress from Kenner Junction to Baton Rouge.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Future studies will need to consider alternative routes, such as the old L&A rail corridor, that could allow for a train station near the New Orleans airport while avoiding interference from freight rail operations.

The takeaway

Connecting the New Orleans-Baton Rouge passenger rail line directly to the airport is seen as crucial for the service's success, but the complex freight rail network in the region presents significant coordination challenges that will need to be overcome.