Winnipeg's new airport terminal opens

Travellers flying to and from Winnipeg on Sunday are coming into a brand-new airport building, which has officially opened.

Officials and politicians cut the ribbon at the $585-million Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport terminal shortly after 11 a.m. CT.

"I can tell just by the buzz in the crowd, this place will make for a new Winnipeg front door," Barry Rempel, president of the Winnipeg Airports Authority, told the audience of more than 100 people before the ribbon was cut in the arrivals area.

More than a dozen flights had already come in and out of the new terminal on Sunday morning. Passengers were treated to chocolate-covered cherries, orange juice and coffee as part of the grand opening.

The Winnipeg Airports Authority says the new terminal, considered to be one of the greenest in North America, features 32 check-in kiosks, new restaurants and services.

The terminal was originally slated to open in November 2010, but construction issues delayed the opening date.The buildingis now almost complete, but some retail outlets are not yet up and running.

Despite the delay, passengers told CBC News they are impressed with the bright, open and modern feel of the glass and steel building.