Q: What is Friends of New Orleans Lakefront Airport (FONOLA)?

Friends of New Orleans Lakefront Airport, commonly known as FONOLA, is a US-registered charitable 501(c)(3) organization based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The organization was formed in 2009 with a clear and passionate mission: to restore and beautify the public areas of the historic New Orleans Lakefront Airport and to perpetuate its historic significance for future generations. FONOLA brings together volunteers, historians, architects, and art preservation specialists who share a deep commitment to protecting one of the most architecturally significant aviation facilities in the United States. The organization works closely with airport authorities, government agencies, and private donors to fund and execute restoration projects. Since its founding, FONOLA has focused primarily on the preservation of irreplaceable artistic works within the terminal building, including the extraordinary murals painted by Xavier Gonzalez in 1938. These murals represent a critical piece of New Orleans cultural heritage and American aviation history. The organization operates entirely on charitable donations and volunteer support, making every contribution directly impactful in preserving this Art Deco treasure for the people of New Orleans and visitors from around the world.

Question 1

What is Friends of New Orleans Lakefront Airport (FONOLA)?

Accepted Answer

Friends of New Orleans Lakefront Airport

A 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to restoring and beautifying the historic New Orleans Lakefront Airport.

P.O. Box 24717
New Orleans, LA 70184-4717

Site Navigation

Resources

FONOLA brings together volunteers, historians, architects, and art preservation specialists who share a deep commitment to protecting one of the most architecturally significant aviation facilities in the United States. The organization works closely with airport authorities, government agencies, and private donors to fund and execute restoration projects.

Since its founding, FONOLA has focused primarily on the preservation of irreplaceable artistic works within the terminal building, including the extraordinary murals painted by Xavier Gonzalez in 1938. These murals represent a critical piece of New Orleans cultural heritage and American aviation history.

The organization operates entirely on charitable donations and volunteer support, making every contribution directly impactful in preserving this Art Deco treasure for the people of New Orleans and visitors from around the world.

Question 2

Why is New Orleans Lakefront Airport historically significant?

Accepted Answer

New Orleans Lakefront Airport holds a unique place in American aviation and architectural history as one of only five surviving Art Deco air terminals in the entire United States. Built in the 1930s during the golden age of aviation, it stands as the oldest and largest of these remarkable structures, representing the optimism and artistic ambition of the era.

The terminal building features extraordinary architectural elements that make it a true masterpiece of Art Deco design. Visitors can admire intricate bas-relief sculptures that adorn the building's exterior and interior spaces, exquisite terrazzo flooring with geometric patterns characteristic of the period, and historic murals that depict themes of flight, exploration, and the spirit of New Orleans.

The airport played a significant role during World War II when it served military functions, and it has continued to serve the greater New Orleans area as a general aviation facility. Its survival through decades of use, hurricanes, and changing aviation needs makes it a resilient symbol of the city's cultural heritage.

Beyond its architectural merit, the airport represents an important chapter in the story of American infrastructure development. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) and other New Deal programs contributed to its construction, connecting it to the broader narrative of how the United States invested in public works during the Great Depression.

Question 3

What murals are inside New Orleans Lakefront Airport?

Accepted Answer

The New Orleans Lakefront Airport terminal houses eight original wall murals created by the renowned artist Xavier Gonzalez in 1938. These murals are considered among the finest examples of WPA-era public art in the southern United States and depict themes related to aviation, commerce, and the cultural life of New Orleans.

Seven of the eight original murals require professional restoration after being covered and exposed to varying conditions over the decades. The murals were at one point hidden behind false walls during renovations, and their rediscovery during the recent terminal restoration generated tremendous excitement among art historians and preservationists.

Xavier Gonzalez was a highly respected artist who contributed to numerous public art projects across the United States during the 1930s and 1940s. His work at the Lakefront Airport is considered one of his most important commissions, showcasing his mastery of large-scale narrative painting and his ability to capture the spirit of an era.

The restoration of these murals is FONOLA's top priority project. Professional conservators have assessed the murals and determined that restoration is feasible, but the work requires significant funding and specialized expertise. Each mural demands individual attention and careful treatment to preserve the original artistry while ensuring long-term stability.

Question 4

How can I visit New Orleans Lakefront Airport?

Accepted Answer

New Orleans Lakefront Airport is open to the public and welcomes visitors who wish to experience its remarkable Art Deco architecture and historic atmosphere. The airport is located on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain in New Orleans, Louisiana, making it easily accessible from downtown New Orleans and surrounding areas.

Visitors can explore the terminal building's public areas, where they can view the architectural details including the terrazzo floors, bas-relief sculptures, and portions of the historic murals. The building itself serves as a living museum of 1930s design and craftsmanship, and simply walking through its corridors provides a powerful connection to the golden age of aviation.

The airport continues to function as an active general aviation facility, so visitors should be mindful of operational areas while exploring the public spaces. Guided tours may be available through FONOLA or local historical organizations, providing deeper insight into the building's history and the ongoing restoration efforts.

Photography enthusiasts will find the terminal especially rewarding, as the Art Deco details, natural lighting, and grand proportions create stunning visual opportunities. The lakefront setting also offers beautiful views and a pleasant environment for a day trip that combines architectural appreciation with the natural beauty of Lake Pontchartrain.

Question 5

How can I support the restoration efforts at Lakefront Airport?

Accepted Answer

Supporting FONOLA's restoration mission can take several forms, and every contribution makes a meaningful difference in preserving this irreplaceable piece of American heritage. Financial donations are the most direct way to support the organization's work, and as a registered 501(c)(3) charity, all contributions to FONOLA are tax-deductible.

Donations can be made to support the overall mission or directed toward specific projects such as the mural restoration initiative. Checks payable to "Friends Of New Orleans Lakefront Airport" may be mailed to the organization's address at P.O. Box 24717, New Orleans, LA 70184-4717.

Beyond financial support, volunteers play a crucial role in FONOLA's operations. The organization welcomes individuals with skills in fundraising, event planning, public relations, historical research, and community outreach. Even those without specialized skills can contribute valuable time and energy to help advance the organization's goals.

Spreading awareness about the airport's historical significance and FONOLA's mission is another powerful form of support. Sharing information with friends, family, and social media networks helps build the community of people who care about preserving this architectural treasure. Every visitor who discovers the airport's beauty becomes a potential advocate for its preservation.

Friends of New Orleans
Lakefront Airport

Our Mission

Frequently Asked Questions

Friends of New OrleansLakefront Airport

Our Mission

Frequently Asked Questions

Friends of New Orleans
Lakefront Airport