Posted on January 7th, 2024
New Orleans Lakefront Airport (KNEW) is a historic public airport in Orleans Parish, Louisiana, just five miles northeast of downtown New Orleans. Situated on a manufactured peninsula extending into Lake Pontchartrain, the airport is classified as a general aviation reliever airport under the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). Known for its rich history and stunning architecture, Lakefront Airport serves private and general aviation traffic and military and corporate operations.
Lakefront Airport was initially constructed in the early 20th century as Shushan Airport, named after Abraham Shushan, a close ally of Louisiana Governor Huey P. Long. Gov. Long commissioned the airport, which Weiss, Dreyfous, and Seiferth, the same architects behind the Louisiana State Capitol building. Opened in 1934, it was the first combined land and seaplane terminal in the United States, symbolizing cutting-edge aviation at the time.
During World War II, the U.S. Air Force utilized the airport for military operations, further cementing its significance in American aviation history. In the post-war era, with the opening of Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport in 1946, Lakefront Airport transitioned primarily to general aviation. It later served as a Cold War bomb shelter, showcasing its versatility during critical historical moments.
Over the years, the airport sustained significant damage from hurricanes, notably Katrina and Isaac, but it has undergone extensive renovations to restore its original Art Deco beauty and functionality.
Lakefront Airport is a masterpiece of Art Deco design, renowned for its opulent marble walls, terrazzo floors, intricate mosaics, and WPA-era plaster details. The extensive renovations brought the terminal back to its former glory, with painstaking recreations of the original decorative elements. These efforts have transformed the airport into a functional aviation hub and one of New Orleans’s sought-after venues for events and weddings.
Highlights of the restoration include:
The airport’s renovation has earned it a spot in documentaries and showcases, celebrating its role as a functional and cultural landmark.
New Orleans Lakefront Airport features one primary runway accommodating multiple aircraft types, including general aviation, corporate and business jets, and military aircraft. Its proximity to downtown New Orleans makes it a preferred choice for business and leisure travelers seeking quick access to the city.
Chartering a private jet to Lakefront Airport is an ideal choice for those traveling to New Orleans. Flying privately to KNEW offers several advantages:
Whether visiting for business, Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or a private getaway, JetOptions Private Jets ensures your journey is smooth and tailored to your needs.
Beyond aviation, Lakefront Airport has cemented its role as a key community space in New Orleans. Its event spaces and stunning architecture make it a top choice for weddings, galas, and corporate functions. The airport is a reminder of the city’s history, blending functionality with cultural heritage.
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