Complete travel information for your November journey
In November there are typically multiple daily nonstop flights between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), with higher frequencies on weekdays. Major carriers such as United and Southwest usually operate at least 3–6 nonstop roundtrips per day; frequencies can increase around holiday weeks. Check airline schedules and book early for Thanksgiving travel to secure the best times.
The scheduled airborne time for the Houston (IAH) to New Orleans (MSY) route is about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes for nonstop flights, depending on winds and routing. Including taxiing, expect roughly 1.5 hours door-to-door in good conditions. Allow additional time for check-in and security at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
Yes — November (excluding the Thanksgiving week) generally offers lower fares than peak summer months because it is shoulder season with milder demand. Early November often has the best deals, while fares spike around Thanksgiving travel days. Use fare alerts and compare airlines for cheap flights on less traveled days (Tuesdays, Wednesdays).
In November, travelers leaving from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) can use taxis, ride-hailing services (Uber/Lyft), airport shuttles, or the METRO bus link to central Houston. Allow extra time for possible holiday traffic if traveling near Thanksgiving; pre-book a ride or use curbside pickup to reduce delays. Parking at IAH also has economy and hourly options if you drive.
As of November, most U.S. domestic flights no longer require COVID-19 testing or vaccine documentation, but travel policies can change. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) follows TSA and CDC guidance — travelers should confirm current airline and federal requirements before departure. Consider carrying masks and proof of vaccination if you prefer extra protection or if your destination has specific rules.
From George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) you can easily connect to major nearby destinations like Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, Baton Rouge, Mexico City, Cancun, and Atlanta. These cities are common connecting points or alternative origin/destination choices when planning multi-city November itineraries that include New Orleans.
Arrival at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) in November is usually smooth with milder weather and less thunderstorm activity than summer months. Expect efficient baggage claim and multiple ground transportation options including taxis, ride-hail services, shuttles, and rental cars. During holiday weekends, allow extra time for traffic to and from downtown New Orleans and reserve airport transfers in advance.
Yes — MSY has a consolidated rental car facility with major companies and frequent shuttle services to downtown hotels, the French Quarter, and nearby cities such as Baton Rouge and Lafayette. In November you’ll find normal availability, though holiday weekends can reduce inventory; book rentals early for the best rates and vehicle choice.
November typically features the Bayou Classic weekend (college football), veterans’ events, early holiday parades and markets, and local food festivals. These events can increase demand for flights and hotels, especially the weekend before and after Thanksgiving. Book flights and accommodations early if traveling to coincide with major November events.
From Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) you can easily travel to Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Gulfport, Mobile, Houston, Destin, and Biloxi via short highway drives or regional flights. These destinations are commonly combined in multi-city Southern Gulf Coast itineraries, especially in November when driving conditions are favorable.
Yes — Thanksgiving week is a high-demand period for arrivals into MSY, so expect heavier ground traffic and fully booked hotels. Arrive earlier, pre-book airport transfers, and consider flying a day earlier to avoid peak delays. For milder weather days in November, walking tours and outdoor dining are excellent choices in New Orleans.
November in New Orleans includes notable events that can affect travel between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Bayou Classic (college football) often draws large crowds in late November, increasing hotel occupancy and demand for flights. Veterans Day observances and early holiday markets also attract visitors. These events can push up fares and ground transport demand, so plan and book early if your trip overlaps major dates.
The best time to fly IAH to MSY in November is early in the month and midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) when fares tend to be lowest and crowds are smaller. Avoid flying on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after, as these are peak travel days with higher prices and airport congestion. For the smoothest experience, choose early-morning flights to minimize weather and air-traffic delay risks.
For the short hop between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), nonstop direct flights are usually the best choice — they save time, reduce risk of missed connections, and often cost only slightly more. Connecting flights may be considered when chasing the absolute lowest fare or using loyalty award travel, but they introduce additional time and transfer risk. In November especially around holidays, a nonstop protects you from delays at connecting hubs.
Major carriers operating the IAH–MSY route include United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and occasionally Delta or American with connecting options. United often provides multiple daily nonstop flights from its Houston hub with flexible fares and loyalty benefits. Southwest is a strong value choice with two free checked bags and frequent nonstop flights. Spirit offers ultra-low fares but charges for baggage and seat selection. Choose based on your priorities: convenience and schedules (United), value and baggage-friendly policy (Southwest), or lowest base fare (Spirit).
Travelers flying from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) in November should pack layers for mild days and cool nights, allow extra time near Thanksgiving travel days, and pre-book ground transport for event weekends. Weather is generally pleasant but variable — a compact umbrella and a light jacket are recommended. Use TSA PreCheck to expedite security at IAH and consider early-morning flights to avoid traffic delays and maximize on-time performance.
Nonstop flights between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) typically last 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes, with door-to-door travel usually under two hours in smooth conditions. In November, airlines operate several roundtrips daily; expect increased frequencies on weekdays and during pre-Thanksgiving and post-Thanksgiving travel days. For the most accurate schedule check airline timetables and real-time flight trackers prior to departure.
To secure cheap IAH to MSY flights in November, search for midweek departures (Tues–Thurs) and book 3–6 weeks in advance for non-holiday travel. Early November typically has lower demand and better sale fares; avoid the Thanksgiving window when prices spike. Compare legacy carriers (United, Delta) with low-cost airlines (Southwest, Spirit) and use fare-aggregation tools and airline newsletters to catch flash sales. Consider being flexible on your flight times (red-eyes or early mornings) and keeping to carry-on only to avoid baggage fees.