Mineta San Jose International Airport's international terminal expansion unveiled

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- There were big applause Thursday morning at the International terminal of Mineta San Jose International Airport to celebrate its latest expansion.

Airport and San Jose city officials held an official ribbon cutting and welcomed travelers in the new enclosed lobby of the terminal.

The baggage claim area has also grown with another carousel.

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The project which cost $8.2 million was needed to accommodate a surge in international travelers. In the last two years, the airport has experienced significant growth.

The international terminal has grown from three carriers to eight with flights to London, Frankfurt, Beijing, Shanghai, Tokyo, Vancouver, Cabo San Lucas and Guadalajara. Aero Mexico will be the newest international carrier to join San Jose in July.

"We're now up to 8 carriers serving international routes and we're adding another 9th carrier July 1st which will be Aero Mexico," said Judy Ross, with Mineta San Jose International Airport planning.

City officials say the expansion is a good indicator of the healthy economy in the Silicon Valley.

"Instead of taking Uber all the way to San Francisco just take it over here if I have to go anywhere it's just a lot easier to be closer to home instead of going all the way to San Francisco," said San Jose City Councilmember Johnny Khamis.

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The international travelers are a mix of business and leisure travelers. Overall, passengers who spoke to ABC7 News say they are pleased to see the airport has responded to the growing need in San Jose.

"It is great, I love it," said Bright Su, a San Jose resident.