Been into and out of MSY about a dozen times the last few months, and once a year before that. I recall, first, that it's actually improved since Katrina. Agree that bathrooms are frequently dirty and food choices are pitiful inside the gates. Good news is that you can plan ahead to eat outside, for whatever it's worth, because security's so easy.

I think it can't qualify as a dump, though, entirely because of convenience to the city; quick security lines; and best of all on-time departures and arrivals. Beats out a ton of other, nicer airports on that score.