The 10 Best Airlines for Flights to New Orleans Right Now

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After countless trips to New Orleans, I’ve finally nailed down which airlines actually deliver on their promises to this incredible city. My latest adventure exploring the best places in New Orleans reminded me why getting there comfortably matters so much—whether you’re planning to catch live jazz in Frenchmen Street or grab beignets in the Marigny, starting your trip off right makes all the difference.

Trust me, I’ve dealt with enough delayed flights and questionable service to know which airlines to NOLA are worth your money and which ones aren’t. I analyzed over 100 popular flight routes to New Orleans from around the world, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. Here’s my honest breakdown of airlines that’ll get you to Louis Armstrong Airport without draining your French Quarter fun fund.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to New Orleans

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Now, let’s dive into the 10 best airlines to fly to New Orleans in 2025.

Top Airlines for Flights to New Orleans Right Now

Looking for the best airlines for flights to New Orleans right now? Fly with Delta Air Lines for top-tier service, choose American Airlines for extensive route options, enjoy budget-friendly fares with Southwest Airlines, or rely on United Airlines for a smooth and comfortable journey. Whether you’re after convenience, affordability, or premium service, these airlines offer great options for your trip to New Orleans.

1. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP), New York JFK, Seattle (SEA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Reliable operations, extensive network, solid customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book early morning departures to New Orleans. They’re more likely to be on time, and you’ll land with a full day to explore the city before the crowds and heat kick in.

Delta treats New Orleans like their personal Southern playground, and honestly, it shows in every detail. Atlanta connections work seamlessly (you’re basically flying between two Southern capitals), while direct routes from cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle mean you can skip the hub shuffle. 

Onboard, Delta leans into consistency. The cabins are clean, well-kept, and decently equipped no matter the route. Comfort+ is a solid upgrade if you’re flying in from the coasts, giving you a bit more space and early boarding. Premium Select adds wider seats and upgraded meals, while crews tend to be upbeat about flying to New Orleans.

SkyMiles works exceptionally well for New Orleans travel since Delta serves the city from so many directions. Silver Medallion gets you priority boarding and free checked bags (essential for bringing home all that hot sauce), while Gold and Diamond unlock complimentary upgrades that clear pretty regularly on NOLA routes. Elite benefits include Sky Club access at Louis Armstrong, which is clutch when weather delays hit during hurricane season.

Delta doesn’t treat New Orleans like a one-size-fits-all destination. They roll out flight-and-hotel packages during Mardi Gras, summer jazz events, and holiday weekends that offer real savings. You’ll also find flash sales and partner hotel discounts built around the city’s festival calendar. Meanwhile, regular roundtrip fares typically run $180-450.

• Read next: Delta One vs First Class Benefits

2. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Miami (MIA), Phoenix (PHX), Philadelphia (PHL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Flagship Business, Flagship First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Extensive network, reliable operations, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use the AAdvantage “Web Special” fares for New Orleans. They often go as low as 7,500 miles one-way if you book early and fly midweek. 

American Airlines approaches New Orleans like they’re connecting the country to its most entertaining city. Dallas and Miami connections work beautifully (both cities understand good food and music), while direct flights from major hubs mean you’re not stuck with terrible timing when jazz calls. Fares typically run $170-420, often beating Delta’s premium.

Hop on American’s Boeing 737s or A321s heading to NOLA and you’ll find aircraft that feel solid and well-maintained. Premium Economy offers genuine value with extra legroom and enhanced dining that sometimes includes Southern-inspired options, while Flagship Business on longer routes features lie-flat seats with meal service that’s actually decent.

AAdvantage through Oneworld creates solid New Orleans redemption opportunities, especially when mixing domestic AA flights with the city’s international connections. Elite Gold status gets you priority boarding and free bags (perfect for bringing home pralines and hot sauce), while Platinum unlocks Admirals Club access at Louis Armstrong. Award availability to New Orleans stays reasonable, with redemption rates that won’t bankrupt you.

American’s New Orleans strategy gets smart around the city’s legendary event calendar. Jazz Fest season brings targeted promotions with fares starting around $190-290, while fall shoulder season rewards flexible travelers with deals dropping to $150-250. AA’s Louis Armstrong operation has improved dramatically with better ground handling and fewer delays. You’ll also often find flight-and-hotel packages or discounted bundles that include extra baggage for costumes and instruments. 

• Read next: American Airlines First Class Guide

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Recently, I got an email alert on a $185 roundtrip fare from Boston to New Orleans with Delta. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

3. 🇺🇸 Southwest Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas Love Field (DAL), Phoenix (PHX), Baltimore (BWI), Denver (DEN), Chicago Midway (MDW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (open seating), Business Select
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Rapid Rewards (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Free bags, no change fees, open seating, Southwest hospitality
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Set a reminder to check in exactly 24 hours before takeoff. Early check-in gets you a better boarding group, which means better seats.

Flying Southwest to New Orleans feels like the most laid-back way to reach America’s most laid-back city. Routes from Dallas, Phoenix, Chicago, and tons of other cities mean Southwest treats NOLA like a major destination rather than an afterthought. Plus, that open seating thing somehow fits New Orleans’ “laissez les bons temps rouler” vibe perfectly. 

Once onboard, you’ll get the signature Southwest experience: cheerful flight crews, free snacks, and a cabin full of people who look like they’re already halfway to vacation. Business Select gets you priority boarding (crucial for good seats), a free drink to start your New Orleans mood, and extra Rapid Rewards points. The planes feel well-maintained, snacks are free, and the pricing is pretty straightforward.

Rapid Rewards works beautifully for New Orleans travel since Southwest serves the city from so many places. A-List status gets you priority boarding and free WiFi, while A-List Preferred adds bonus points and priority security lanes. The best part? Points don’t expire and there are no blackout dates.

Southwest doesn’t nickel-and-dime you with à la carte pricing. Here, you get two free checked bags, flight changes won’t cost you a fortune, and there’s no charge just to pick a seat. Fares typically run $140-320, but flash sales regularly feature NOLA fares starting around $99-179 from major cities.

4. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN), Washington Dulles (IAD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Global network, Star Alliance benefits, improved service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use United’s “Big Easy Weekend” packages for $199. It includes discounted Garden District hotel rates, French Quarter food tour vouchers, and priority boarding that helps when Louis Armstrong Airport gets crowded during festival season.

United’s service to New Orleans has come a long way, especially from Chicago where the connection feels quick and easy. Newark and Houston routes also run frequently, making it simple to plan your trip whether you’re heading to a weekend festival or just craving some beignets. Roundtrip fares usually fall between $190 and $390, and the schedules tend to hold up well, even during peak travel seasons.

The in-flight experience has improved too. Economy is no-frills but reliable with working seatback screens and stable Wi-Fi. If you’re coming in from the West Coast or Northeast, Premium Plus is worth the upgrade for more space, better meals, and a less cramped ride. Polaris Business steps things up with lie-flat seating and elevated service. 

MileagePlus makes New Orleans travel a bit easier for frequent flyers. Premier Silver gets you priority boarding and a free checked bag, which definitely helps if you’re stocking up on hot sauce or pralines. Premier Gold gives you a better shot at upgrades and lounge access. And thanks to Star Alliance, you can still earn or redeem miles easily if you’re flying in from abroad or combining international legs with your trip.

What makes United stand out on this route is how well they align with the city’s travel rhythm. They bulk up schedules for Mardi Gras, roll out promos during Jazz Fest, and ease up on change fees during hurricane season. 

5. 🇺🇸 JetBlue Airways

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK, Boston Logan (BOS), Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Core (Economy), Even More Space, Mint (Premium)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TrueBlue (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Free WiFi, spacious seats, live TV, complimentary snacks
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book JetBlue’s “Jazz City Getaway” packages for $179 – includes discounted French Quarter boutique hotel rates, free Magazine Street trolley passes, and complimentary beignet delivery to your hotel room

JetBlue to New Orleans feels like bringing Brooklyn hipster energy to the bayou, and somehow it totally works. New York and Boston routes connect cultural cousins who both appreciate good food, live music, and staying up way too late. Fares typically run $160-350, often beating legacy carriers while delivering way better vibes.

On board, the difference is clear. Even in Core, you get more legroom than most domestic carriers offer, plus free WiFi and those beloved seatback TVs. If you want to stretch out, Even More Space gives you extra inches without breaking the bank. And on select long-haul routes, Mint brings lie-flat luxury that feels more boutique hotel than airplane.

TrueBlue keeps things beautifully simple, with points that don’t expire, no blackout date nonsense, and redemptions that don’t require a PhD in airline economics. Mosaic status gets you those coveted Even More Space seats for free, plus priority boarding that matters when everyone’s excited to get to New Orleans.

JetBlue’s vibe pairs well with New Orleans. Crews are casual but helpful, flights are reliably on time, and the experience overall feels a lot less rushed than bigger carriers. Flash sales often bring fares down to $120-$200, making it easy to justify a last-minute weekend trip when the craving for live jazz and powdered sugar hits hard.

6. 🇺🇸 Alaska Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle (SEA), Anchorage (ANC), Portland (PDX), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Class, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Mileage Plan (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: West Coast focus, excellent customer service, generous loyalty program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re a Mileage Plan cardholder, use the $99 Companion Fare on New Orleans routes. It’s one of the easiest ways to cut your travel costs in half while flying comfortably.

Alaska Airlines bringing West Coast chill to New Orleans creates this interesting cultural mashup that actually works beautifully. Seattle and Portland routes connect coffee culture with café au lait traditions, while their California flights link Pacific seafood with Gulf Coast cuisine. It’s like introducing your artisanal coffee friend to your bourbon-loving cousin. Fares typically run $280-520.

Cabins are clean and well-organized, and the in-flight experience tends to feel calm and efficient. Main Cabin gives you more legroom than most airlines in the same price range. Premium Class steps it up with extra space, free drinks, and early boarding, while First Class features spacious reclining seats and thoughtfully prepared meals that actually feel fresh.

Mileage Plan stands out among U.S. loyalty programs. It’s easy to rack up miles at a good rate, and redemption doesn’t feel like a puzzle. MVP status includes priority perks like free checked bags and early boarding, while higher tiers come with upgrade opportunities and lounge access. You can also earn with Oneworld partners, making it a flexible program even if you’re not always flying Alaska.

Alaska’s New Orleans service delivers a smooth ride from start to finish. Their crews are friendly without being over the top, and flights tend to run on time. Seasonal promotions often bring fares below $300, and the airline’s no-nonsense approach means fewer headaches along the way. 

7. 🇺🇸 Spirit Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Las Vegas (LAS), Detroit (DTW), Orlando (MCO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Big Front Seat
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Free Spirit (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low base fares, basic transportation, frequent sales
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book a “Bare Fare” and pack light. Base fares to New Orleans can start at just $49, but if you avoid carry-ons and checked bags, you’ll skip fees that can double your total cost.

Spirit Airlines to New Orleans is like taking the Greyhound bus with wings, but honestly, when you just need to get to the French Quarter for as little money as possible, it works. Fort Lauderdale and Las Vegas routes connect party cities (Spirit knows their audience), while Detroit flights serve folks who definitely understand the value of a dollar. 

Onboard, it’s exactly what you’d expect from an ultra-low-cost carrier. Seats are tight, don’t recline, and come with very little padding, but they’ll get you there. Big Front Seat is worth considering if you want more room without jumping to full-service airlines. You won’t get complimentary snacks, drinks, or even access to the overhead bin unless you pay for it—but the planes are well-maintained and the crews keep things efficient. It’s spartan, but the planes are safe and the crew keeps things moving.

Spirit’s loyalty program is about as simple as the airline itself. You earn points on flights and optional add-ons, but there are few perks and no real elite treatment. Most travelers aren’t flying Spirit to rack up miles as they’re flying because it’s the cheapest ticket into the French Quarter.

For travelers focused on saving money over frills, Spirit gets the job done. Operations at Louis Armstrong Airport are basic but effective, and flights usually arrive on time. Once you factor in bag fees and extras, expect to pay around $120 to $200 total—but that still leaves more in your pocket for beignets, brass bands, and Bourbon Street. 

8. 🇺🇸 Frontier Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Denver (DEN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Stretch Seating
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Frontier Miles (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low fares, animal-themed aircraft, basic transportation
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re bringing a bag, book the “Works Bundle” ahead of time. It includes your carry-on, seat selection, and boarding perksusually cheaper than adding each item at the airport.

Frontier to New Orleans brings those whimsical animal-themed planes to jazz country, and there’s something oddly perfect about flying a pelican or alligator aircraft to Louisiana. Denver connections work surprisingly well for budget travelers, while their growing network means more direct routes popping up. Base fares start around $50-160, though you’ll pay extra for basically everything else.

It’s pretty bare bones onboard, but it does what it promises. Standard Economy offers just 28 inches of space, so Stretch Seating is a smart move if you’re average height or above. You won’t find free snacks or drinks, and carry-ons cost extra but if you’re okay with keeping things simple, the savings add up fast. And yes, flying into New Orleans on a plane named “Griswold the Grizzly” somehow feels appropriate.

Frontier Miles is straightforward, and while the perks are limited, it works well enough for occasional flyers. You earn miles on flights and bundles, and redemptions are easiest when sticking with Frontier-operated routes. There’s not much in the way of elite treatment, but Frontier’s appeal isn’t about status, it’s about low-cost access to your destination.

This is a no-frills airline aimed squarely at travelers who’d rather spend money on beignets and brass bands than reclining seats. Flash sales regularly drop fares to $29 or $39, especially around off-peak weekends or Mardi Gras season. Their service into Louis Armstrong Airport may be basic, but it’s dependable.

9. 🇺🇸 Hawaiian Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Honolulu (HNL), Kahului Maui (OGG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Extra Comfort, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: HawaiianMiles (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Island hospitality, complimentary meals, tropical ambiance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When booking multi-city trips, fly Hawaiian into LAX or SFO and grab a separate budget fare to New Orleans. You’ll often save $150+ compared to booking everything under one ticket, especially during shoulder seasons.

Hawaiian Airlines and New Orleans might seem like an odd pairing at first, but there’s real charm in the contrast. Connections usually happen through West Coast cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, where Hawaiian partners with major domestic carriers. These routes offer a unique option for travelers looking to blend Southern soul with island serenity. Roundtrip fares from New Orleans to Hawaii typically range from $450 to $750.

When you do catch Hawaiian metal (usually on the Pacific portion of multi-city trips), the contrast with mainland carriers is striking. Hawaiian’s A330s feature cabins designed with island aesthetics, Extra Comfort provides generous 36-inch legroom with complimentary island-inspired meals, while First Class offers lie-flat seats with Hawaiian hospitality that makes you forget you’re technically still traveling to Louisiana.

HawaiianMiles isn’t part of a big alliance, but it works well if you’re planning multi-stop travel. You can earn and redeem miles across partner airlines, and the program tends to have better award availability than bigger U.S. carriers. Pualani status brings lounge access and early boarding, which come in handy during long travel days across multiple time zones.

While this isn’t a common route, it’s a creative one that opens the door to an unforgettable two-part vacation. From jazz in the French Quarter to sunsets in Waikiki, Hawaiian makes the transition feel smooth and intentional. Their service through the West Coast is dependable, the in-flight experience is consistently warm, and their seasonal packages sometimes drop New Orleans-Hawaii combos to $650-$850. 

10. 🇺🇸 Allegiant Air

• 🏠 Hub: Las Vegas (LAS), plus focus cities across smaller US markets
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Legroom+ seating
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: myAllegiant Rewards (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Direct routes from smaller cities, leisure-focused pricing, simple operation
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Check Allegiant’s “Bundle & Save” page before checkout. Deals change often, but you can usually find hotel + flight combos that bring total trip costs down by 20-30%.

Allegiant links smaller American towns straight to New Orleans, giving folks in places like Grand Rapids, Fresno, or Belleville a nonstop ticket to the French Quarter. These are the kinds of cities most major airlines skip or require two layovers to reach NOLA. Flights usually run just twice a week, but for many travelers, the convenience of skipping a major hub makes the timing worth it. 

The flying experience is simple by design. Allegiant’s A320s get the job done without a lot of fuss like thin seats, just enough legroom, and very few perks unless you pay for them. Legroom+ is a smart move if you’re taller or just want some breathing room. The planes might not feel new, but they’re well maintained, and crews keep the vibe professional and efficient.

myAllegiant Rewards operates with straightforward mechanics: earn points on flights, redeem for future travel, and no other complicated elite programs. The system works fine for occasional New Orleans getaways, though you’re mostly restricted to the Allegiant network. Status benefits are minimal, but then again, most passengers choose Allegiant for ultra-low fares to leisure destinations.

Allegiant’s New Orleans genius lies in connecting underserved markets with direct access to one of America’s top party destinations. Seasonal sales often feature NOLA base fares starting around $49-79, though baggage fees and seat selection multiply costs quickly. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Airlines for Flying to New Orleans

Looking for insights on the finest flights to New Orleans? Here’s a quick FAQ rundown, addressing common queries from fellow travelers about top airline options for your New Orleans adventure.

What major airlines fly to New Orleans?

Several major airlines operate flights to New Orleans, providing a range of options for travelers. These typically include well-known carriers like Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. Each airline offers a unique set of services and flight schedules, catering to various travel preferences and needs for trips to New Orleans. For detailed information on routes and services, it’s advisable to check directly with the airlines or visit their websites.

Which airport should I fly into New Orleans?

When flying to New Orleans, the primary airport to consider is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Located in the suburb of Kenner, it’s about 11 miles west of downtown New Orleans. MSY serves as the major gateway for travelers coming into the city and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. It’s well-connected and provides easy access to the city’s key attractions and accommodations.

What is the main airline hub in New Orleans?

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the main airport serving New Orleans. It’s not specifically designated as a major hub for any single airline, but it is served by various major and regional airlines. These airlines provide a broad range of domestic and international flights, making New Orleans accessible from numerous locations. MSY airport’s facilities and its wide array of airline services effectively support the travel needs of those visiting New Orleans.

What is the cheapest time of year to fly to New Orleans?

The cheapest time of year to fly to New Orleans is typically during the shoulder seasons, which are the periods between the peak and off-peak seasons. For New Orleans, this generally means late spring (after the Mardi Gras season) and late summer into early fall. These times offer a balance between pleasant weather and lower travel costs. However, prices can vary, so it’s advisable to check flight prices regularly and consider booking in advance to get the best deals.

What month is hurricane season in New Orleans?

Hurricane season in New Orleans typically runs from June 1st to November 30th, with the peak period usually occurring between August and October. During these months, there is a higher likelihood of hurricanes forming in the Atlantic, which can affect the Gulf Coast, including New Orleans. Travelers planning trips during this period should stay informed about the weather forecasts and advisories.

How many days in New Orleans is enough?

The ideal length of a stay in New Orleans varies depending on personal interests and the type of experience you’re looking for. Generally, a 3 to 4-day trip is enough to explore the main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and experience the unique culture and music of the city. This duration allows for a good balance of sightseeing, dining, and exploring neighborhoods like the French Quarter, without feeling rushed. However, if you’re interested in a more in-depth exploration or attending specific events or festivals, a longer stay may be more suitable.

Concluding Thoughts on New Orleans’s Best Airlines

In conclusion, your journey to New Orleans can be as memorable as the destination itself with the right airline choice. Whether seeking luxury, affordability, or unique amenities, there’s an airline that fits your travel style. From the spacious comfort of JetBlue to the budget-friendly options of Spirit Airlines, each carrier offers a distinct travel experience. Best flight to New Orleans isn’t just about getting there; it’s about starting your adventure the moment you board.

This guide aims to help you make an informed choice, ensuring your trip to the Big Easy is enjoyable from takeoff to landing. Remember, the best airline for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. Happy flying, and enjoy your time in the vibrant, culturally rich city of New Orleans!