Southern Seaplane Airport (BCS)

Southern Seaplane Airport (BCS) is a unique and historic aviation facility located in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, specialized in dual-purpose operations for both conventional land-based aircraft and seaplanes. Established in 1954, it has grown into the largest seaplane operation in the Gulf South region. The facility features a 3,200-foot paved runway (02/20) for traditional landing gear aircraft and a dedicated 5,000-foot water landing area (02W/20W) on a canal system linked to the Mississippi River. Its location on the west bank of the river, directly across from the heart of New Orleans, makes it an indispensable hub for regional transport, industry support, and tourism. The terminal operations at BCS are managed by Southern Seaplane Inc., which serves as the primary Fixed Base Operator (FBO). The facility is designed to handle the specialized needs of seaplane pilots and passengers, offering a stark contrast to the standard commercial terminals found elsewhere. Inside the FBO building, travelers can find a welcoming passenger lounge with views of the bustling canal, pilot planning rooms, and administrative offices. While the airport does not host scheduled commercial airline routes, it is a hive of activity for on-demand charters and spectacular aerial tours that provide visitors with a bird's-eye view of the French Quarter, the Louisiana bayous, and the sprawling Mississippi River delta. Amenities at the Southern Seaplane facility are focused on supporting its niche aviation community. The terminal provides essential services such as full-service fueling for 100LL and Jet-A, aircraft maintenance for both float-equipped and wheeled planes, and a comfortable pilot lounge with Wi-Fi and refreshments. While there are no on-site full-service restaurants, the nearby town of Belle Chasse offers several local dining options, and the world-class culinary scene of New Orleans is just a 15-minute drive away across the Crescent City Connection. The airport also offers extensive hangar storage and ramp parking, making it a preferred base for corporate aircraft and private owners who value the facility's proximity to New Orleans' central business district.