New Orleans Airport Begins $27.1M Runway Rehabilitation Project

Eight-month closure of Runway 2/20 for full-depth pavement reconstruction and lighting upgrades

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport has begun a $27.1 million runway rehabilitation project funded primarily by the Federal Aviation Administration. The project will close the airport's north-south Runway 2/20 for approximately eight months starting in March 2026 to allow for full-depth pavement reconstruction, lighting upgrades, and other infrastructure improvements.

Why it matters

This major infrastructure investment at one of the region's most critical transportation hubs will enhance long-term safety and operational reliability at the airport. While the temporary runway closure may lead to increased aircraft noise for nearby residents, the project is essential to sustaining airfield capacity and supporting future passenger growth at MSY.

The details

The rehabilitation project includes full-depth reconstruction of two center panels along the entire 7,001-foot length of Runway 2/20, replacement of in-pavement centerline lighting and associated electrical components, resealing of pavement joints, new runway markings, removal of abandoned airfield pavement, and replacement of the medium-intensity approach lighting system serving the east-west Runway 11/29. During construction, all arriving and departing aircraft will operate from the airport's east-west runway.

  • The project begins in March 2026 and is expected to conclude by December 2026.
  • Runway 2/20 will be closed for approximately eight months during construction.

The players

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport

A major airport serving the New Orleans metropolitan area and one of the region's most critical transportation hubs.

New Orleans Aviation Board

The governing body that oversees operations at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The U.S. government agency that provided the majority of funding for this runway rehabilitation project through its Airport Improvement Program.

Hon. Michael Bagneris

Chair of the New Orleans Aviation Board.

Kevin Dolliole

Director of aviation at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

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What they’re saying

“This project reflects our commitment to maintaining world-class infrastructure at Louis Armstrong Airport, and our strong relationship with the FAA. These essential improvements will enhance safety and reliability for passengers, airlines, and our aviation partners.”

— Hon. Michael Bagneris, Chair, New Orleans Aviation Board (neworleanscitybusiness.com)

“Runway 2-20 is a critical piece of infrastructure at MSY, and this rehabilitation project ensures it remains safe and operational for years to come. We are grateful to the FAA for the critical funding they provided. This investment strengthens the foundation of our airfield and supports the continued growth of our airport.”

— Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (neworleanscitybusiness.com)

What’s next

The project is expected to conclude by December 2026, at which point normal arrival and departure patterns will resume at the airport.

The takeaway

This major infrastructure investment at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport demonstrates the airport's commitment to maintaining world-class facilities and enhancing safety and reliability for passengers, airlines, and the region's aviation industry. The temporary runway closure may lead to increased noise for nearby residents, but the long-term benefits of this project will support the airport's continued growth and serve as a critical transportation asset for the New Orleans metropolitan area.