Vancouver International Airport celebrated the opening of its expanded domestic terminal, the A-B Connector, this week, featuring new gate capacity, an expedited baggage system, seismic upgrades and a wide range of new dining and shopping options.
The new $213 million expansion is the first major infrastructure project completed as part of YVR’s 10-year gateway strategy announced in 2012.
The A-B Connector will be used primarily by WestJet, Central Mountain Air, Air North, Hawkair, Sunwing and Air Transat, said a release from the airport.
The upgrades and expansion were made to the original areas of YVR’s 1968 terminal. The A-B Connector provides improved passenger navigation and flow, increased gate capacity and holdroom space, new security and safety enhancements and seismic upgrades to ensure a more comfortable and efficient experience. In addition, an expedited baggage system connects bags between international and domestic flights more quickly.
Passengers traveling through the A-B Connector will enjoy an array of street priced food and beverage options at 10 new shops, restaurants and services and will have access to YVR’s largest Plaza Premium pay-per-use lounge.
Architectural features evoke imagery from B.C.’s vineyards and orchards, fishing lodges and the Fraser River and Canyon. The space is anchored by the contemporary art piece, The Rivers Monument, by B.C. First Nations artist Marianne Nicolson.
