17 MAY 2012: The new $1.4 billion international terminal at the world's busiest airport has opened in Atlanta. The sleek launching pad for millions of passengers is designed to help Atlanta grab a growing share of the lucrative market for global travellers.

The 1.2-million-square-foot terminal opened yesterday after years of planning.

The building's wavy lines, expansive windows and eye-catching artwork offer a stark contrast to the boxy design of the rest of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Airport managers are already expecting an increase in international travellers over the next decade, and they hope the terminal will convince airlines to route even more of their overseas flights through the city.