Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is averaging 80 departures a day, nearly half the average number of daily flights pre-Katrina.

CNN: Mardi Gras to fatten New Orleans tourism

There were also crowds at New Orleans' Louis Armstrong International Airport, which the city plans to keep open through 6 p.m.

CNN: Mandatory evacuations to begin Sunday morning in New Orleans

The first contingent of 100 military police officers arrived at Louis Armstrong International Airport late Thursday -- combat-ready for immediate deployment in New Orleans.

CNN: Military due to move in to New Orleans