New Orleans Airport Introduces Emotional Support ... Gators?
Alligators are on the loose at New Orleans International Airport (MSY). But don't worry, these alligators are part of a new partnership between the airport and the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans. According to USA Today, passengers who find themselves pre-security will have the opportunity to experience the new gators first-hand.
New Orleans/Louis Armstrong International Airport sees more than 12 million passengers annually and offers flights throughout North America and Europe. The airport, which has seen a substantial amount of growth in recent years thanks to the return of tourism to the area, has been working to improve the passenger experience. While a brand new $1 billion terminal will certainly improve the experience when it opens, the new emotional support alligators will have to suffice for now.
The Audubon Nature Institute, located in New Orleans, offers passengers the chance to pet and even hold baby alligators at the airport. Passengers looking to calm their nerves during the busy holiday travel season can make their way to baggage belt number 6 on Fridays in the afternoon from 1:30 - 3:30pm. While therapy dogs are far more common than therapy gators, New Orleans International Airport appears to have made the decision to embrace its Mississippi Delta roots with the new reptiles.
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