Exhibit 15.1

   October 18, 2001



   McMoRan Exploration Co.
   1615 Poydras St.
   New Orleans, LA 70112

   Gentlemen:

   We  are aware that McMoRan Exploration Co. has incorporated by
   reference  in  its  Registration Statements  (File  Nos.  333-
   67485,  333-67963, 333-95195 and 333-57484) its Form 10-Q  for
   the  quarter ended September 30, 2001, which includes  our  report
   dated  October 18, 2001 covering the unaudited interim financial
   information  contained therein.  Pursuant to Regulation  C  of
   the  Securities  Act  of 1933 (the Act), this  report  is  not
   considered  a part of the registration statements prepared  or
   certified  by  our firm or a report prepared or  certified  by
   our firm within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of the Act.

   Very truly yours,


   /s/Arthur Andersen LLP