MSY, the New Orleans Airport
The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is located in Kenner, Louisiana, United States. It serves as a gateway to the city of New Orleans, which is known for its jazz music, Mardi Gras, and Creole cuisine. The airport has undergone significant changes in recent years, including a new terminal, a new name, and a new airport code. This article will explore the reasons behind the naming of the New Orleans airport as MSY.
History of the New Orleans Airport
The New Orleans airport has a long history, dating back to the 1930s. It has gone through several phases of expansion and renovation, with the most recent being the construction of a new terminal that opened in November 2019. The airport has played an important role in the economic and cultural development of the city, connecting it to other parts of the world and facilitating trade and tourism.
The Original Name of the Airport
The New Orleans airport was originally named Moisant Field, after John Moisant, a pioneering aviator who died in a plane crash in 1910. The airport was renamed in 1946 as the New Orleans International Airport, reflecting its growing importance as a hub for air travel in the region.
The Decision to Rename the Airport
In 2017, the airport’s governing board voted to rename the facility in honor of Louis Armstrong, the legendary jazz musician who was born and raised in New Orleans. The decision was based on a desire to pay tribute to Armstrong’s cultural and artistic legacy, as well as his contributions to the city’s identity and reputation.
The Naming Process of the Airport
The process of renaming the airport involved consultations with various stakeholders, including city officials, community leaders, and members of the public. A committee was formed to oversee the selection of a new name, and several options were considered before the final decision was made.
What Does MSY Stand for?
The airport’s new code, MSY, is derived from its former name, Moisant Field. The "M" and "S" stand for Moisant Stock Yards, which was a livestock market that used to be located near the airport site. The "Y" is a standard letter used to denote airports, and it was added to complete the code.
The Symbolism Behind the MSY Code
The MSY code has several symbolic meanings, reflecting the history and culture of New Orleans. The reference to Moisant Field honors the airport’s pioneering roots and the spirit of innovation that has characterized the city’s development. The reference to the stock yards acknowledges the importance of agriculture and industry in the region’s economy. And the use of the letter "Y" as a suffix represents the airport’s role as a gateway to the world.
The Impact of the Airport’s Name Change
The renaming of the airport has had a significant impact on the city and its residents. It has helped to strengthen the connection between New Orleans and Louis Armstrong, who is widely regarded as one of its most beloved and iconic figures. It has also boosted the airport’s profile and visibility, attracting more visitors and business to the area.
The Reaction of the Public to the New Name
The public reaction to the airport’s new name has been generally positive, with many expressing support for the decision to honor Louis Armstrong. Some have criticized the use of the MSY code, however, arguing that it lacks clarity and may confuse travelers who are unfamiliar with its origin and meaning.
The Importance of the New Orleans Airport
The New Orleans airport is a vital component of the city’s infrastructure and economy. It serves as a hub for several major airlines, connecting New Orleans to destinations across the United States and around the world. It also plays a key role in supporting local businesses and industries, as well as promoting tourism and cultural exchange.
Conclusion: A New Name for a New Era
The renaming of the New Orleans airport as MSY reflects the city’s ongoing transformation and evolution. It honors the legacy of Louis Armstrong and pays tribute to the history and culture of New Orleans. It also marks a new era for the airport, as it continues to expand and modernize to meet the needs of a changing world.
References and Further Reading
- "New Orleans airport to get new name: Louis Armstrong International Airport." NBC News. August 24, 2017.
- "New Orleans’ airport gets new name, code." USA Today. November 6, 2019.
- "New Orleans airport’s new code: MSY." Nola.com. November 6, 2019.
- "New Orleans airport unveils new terminal, marking end of $1.3B construction project." CBS News. November 6, 2019.
