Southern Seaplane Airport (BCS)

Southern Seaplane Airport (BCS) is a unique dual-purpose aviation facility located in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, serving both conventional aircraft and seaplanes. Situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River, directly across from downtown New Orleans, it is recognized as the largest seaplane operation in the Gulf South, with a history dating back to 1954. The airport features a 3,200-foot paved runway (2/20) for land-based aircraft and a dedicated 5,000-foot seaplane landing area (2W/20W). It primarily supports general aviation, private charters, and aerial tour services, rather than scheduled commercial passenger flights.

Operational procedures at BCS are tailored for general aviation and seaplane operations. There is no air traffic control tower, and pilots operate under visual flight rules (VFR), communicating on common frequencies. Consequently, there are no TSA security checkpoints, baggage handling systems, or traditional boarding gates. Passengers and pilots access their aircraft directly via the Fixed Base Operator (FBO), Southern Seaplane Inc., which provides streamlined services. The airport's strategic location near the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base also means it occasionally handles military traffic, requiring pilots to be vigilant of varied airspace users.

Amenities at Southern Seaplane Airport are focused on supporting its specialized aviation activities. The FBO offers essential services such as aircraft fueling, maintenance, and pilot lounge facilities. Southern Seaplane Inc. provides 24-hour on-demand air charter services and popular aerial tours over the Mississippi Delta, offering a unique perspective of the New Orleans area. While there are no on-site restaurants or extensive retail shops within the terminal, the town of Belle Chasse offers limited commercial amenities, and downtown New Orleans is just a 10-minute drive away, providing a vast array of dining, accommodation, and entertainment options. It is advisable to contact the FBO in advance for any specific service needs.