California Will No Longer Direct Planes in Southern Utah

News of St. George Regional Airport getting its own traffic control tower begs a question. Who is routing the planes currently? The answer is surprising and points out how technology has made working remotely possible even at airports.

$15 Million Granted by Utah Legislature to Build New Tower

The Airport in St. George has grown quickly since it was built in 2013. With the increase in traffic and many different size planes flying in and out, the need for a local tower has been recognized and now approved.

A site location has been decided on using virtual reality where they could check site lines and simulate all times of day. It will be built on a hill which will give a good view of the runways and save on construction costs.

3D virtual reality was created of the airport to choose the site for the new tower. SGU Jen Jensen

The plans are going to bid, construction will begin this summer and should be completed in 2026. Operations Specialist for the Airport Jen Jensen said it will have a positive impact:

“If you've ever been stuck on a commercial plane waiting for clearances from Los Angeles then you'll be happy to hear that once the tower is complete the clearances times will reduce drastically,” said Jensen.

Air Traffic Control for St. George Currently Happening in California

With modern technology, air traffic control for this Southern Utah airport has been handled by Federal Aviation staff in Southern California. It is kind of wild to think someone reading a screen two states away is guiding planes here.

It will be a big benefit to have a local tower at the airport. As more people discover the convenience of the St. George Regional Airport and tourists visiting the area increases, this new tower will guide these flights into the future.