The opening date for the new north terminal for Louis Armstrong International Airport, scheduled for next month, will be pushed back to Fall of 2019, the city of New Orleans and airport officials announced Thursday. Originally planned to open as part of New Orleans' tricentennial celebration, this is now the fourth delay for the project.
"This is a once in a lifetime investment that will benefit our city, region, state and all of our people. I accept the responsibility of making sure that when our new airport opens, it is at 100 percent readiness,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell in a press release. "The fact is: it is not ready, and there is more work to be done to get us there. I fully support the additional time needed and look forward to opening our new, completely operational facility at its peak on Day One.”
"This is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in this region’s history. We want to make sure that we get it right. The additional time is going to allow us to deliver a world-class airport and ensure a safe and seamless transition so that our passengers have the best possible experience,” said Kevin C. Dolliole, Director of Aviation.
Airport officials say the delay will not impact flights to and fromthe current facility.
Plans for the new terminal were announced by then-Mayor Mitch Landrieu in April 2013 and construction began in January of 2016.
Photo: TheNewMSY.com