Nearest major airport to New Orleans, Louisiana: The closest major airport to New Orleans, Louisiana is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY / KMSY). This airport is 14 miles from the center of New Orleans, LA. If you're looking for international or domestic flights to MSY, check the airlines that fly to MSY. Search for direct flights from your hometown and find hotels near New Orleans, LA, or scroll down for more international airports or domestic airports.