LAX Celebrates Grand Opening Of New Tom Bradley International Terminal

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Travelers Wednesday got their first look at the new Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) at LAX.

The 150,000-square foot, $1.9 billion Antonio R. Villaraigosa Pavilion became fully operational at midnight and features the best LA has to offer in dining, shopping and relaxation.

The new terminal has free Wi-Fi and 18 new gates, nine of which are capable of accommodating new wide-body A3-80 aircrafts.

The TBIT, designed by Curtis Fentress, features a curved vaulted ceiling that appears to put travelers "inside the curl" of a giant wave in addition to other design elements that evoke Southern California culture and geography.

More than 60 restaurants and luxury retail shops, including Fred Segal, Coach, Kitson, Border Grill, Umami Burger, 800 Degrees and Larder at Tavern, will call LAX home when they open in the coming weeks, airport official said.

"The duty-free shops are open now," spokeswoman Katherine Alvarado said.

Full service spa treatments tailor-made for travelers on the go, tips on how to stay relaxed while at the airport. more electrical outlets and a children's area are another way the new TBIT will make flying more enjoyable.

"There's so much downtime. The more the place is like a mall with a lot of choices to sit, eat, things to read, entertainment, the happier the travelers are," flyer Dean Matcheck said.

The international terminal remodel is part of a $4.1 billion Capital Improvement Project at LAX.

An official unveiling ceremony will take place at noon Wednesday.