Utah Sens. Orrin Hatch and Bob Bennett, both R-Utah, along with Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, said in prepared statements they were pleased with the FAA's decision.

"St. George city has been waiting for a new airport for over a decade," Matheson said. "I am confident that the new airport will play a vital economic development role in the region, and St. George residents and area visitors will see the benefits first-hand."

McArthur, who held a small version of a SkyWest 50-passenger Bombardier aircraft during the news conference, said he was thrilled to see the project move forward.

"When the pioneers first settled here, a lot of people thought it wasn't a desirable place to be," he said. "Well, that's changed. Now we're very desirable. With the support of the city and its residents, I have a lot of faith that we'll be able to do this in a timely manner. It's positive for our community and for our largest carrier, SkyWest."

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