So. Much. Space.

That was the No. 1 reaction at the new Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport on Sunday, as thousands streamed in to see it before it fully opens Sept. 23.

Years of planning, design and construction of have transformed the terminal from a vision into around a million square feet of space that people will use, experience and move through. And move they did: They swiveled in the swivel chairs, explored the sunny second-floor terrace and wandered around taking pictures and appreciating how much airier and prettier it is than its predecessor.

The newly constructed Terminal 1 at the San Diego International Airport held an open house on Sunday morning. (Ariana Drehsler / For The San Diego Union-Tribune)

“The space, the color, the vibe. It does feel beachy. The floor,

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