The new U.S. departures area at Trudeau Airport will be open to the public on Wednesday.

Montreal's airport authority, Aeroports de Montreal, offered the media a preview on Monday.

The revamped section of the airport is part of a large scale renovation plan that has spanned nine years.

The new area is more than 18,000 square metres. It has doubled in capacity, and now features 58 traditional check-in counter stations and 48 self-serve check-in kiosks.

"Space and fluidity is going to create a much better experience for passengers," said James Cherry, president and CEO of Aeroports de Montreal.

The pre-boarding security checkpoint has been modified to conform to new U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements.

Lee McClenny, the U.S. Consul General in Montreal, said the changes will afford passengers an improved travel experience.

"They will be able to check in and complete the pre-flight production much more efficiently, more securely and more rapidly in a larger and more user-friendly space," he said.

There is also a new baggage handling system, said to be one of the most advanced in the world. Luggage is photographed and inspected automatically, with technology that allows U.S. Customs officers to easily recall bags for a follow-up inspection if required.

Aeroports de Montreal says approximately 1.5 million passengers are expected to use the new area each year.