First Passengers Arrive In New Terminal B

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) -- The final touchups are in place, the stores are stocked, and the first passengers have arrived.

The Sacramento International Airport's $1 billion rejuvenation of Terminal B is ready for business.

Although a flight from Hawaii was scheduled to be the first arrival at the new terminal, Southwest Flight 1919 from Seattle landed about 20 minutes early, claiming the first slot.

"We knew the terminal opened at a certain time but we didn't know we were going to be the first ones," said Southwest pilot Chris Lopez. "We called expecting to get our old gate assignment at the old terminal. They said, 'You guys are number 1.'"

The official grand opening of Terminal B is scheduled for 4:00 a.m. Thursday, with the first departing flights expected to leave at about 6:00 a.m.

>> Airline Assignments: Terminals A & B
>> Sacramento International Airport Parking Map
>> Slideshow: The Artwork Of Terminal B