(WEST PADUCAH, Ky.) — Travelers in Western Kentucky will soon have direct access to two of the nation’s busiest airports when United Airlines begins daily service from Barkley Regional Airport next year.
Starting February 24, 2026, SkyWest Airlines will operate flights under the United banner connecting Paducah to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The service marks a significant upgrade for the regional airport, which has secured the routes through the federal Essential Air Service program.
The new flights will provide 14 weekly round trips between Paducah and the two United hub cities, opening connections to hundreds of destinations worldwide for local travelers who previously faced long drives to reach major airports.
“Why drive more than two hours to another airport when you can now access the same global network right here in Paducah?” said Dennis Rouleau, executive director of Barkley Regional Airport.
Upgraded Aircraft and Amenities
The service will operate on CRJ550 regional jets, a notable improvement over the smaller aircraft typically used in Essential Air Service markets. The 50-seat planes feature three cabin classes — First, Economy Plus, and Economy — and allow passengers to bring carry-on luggage aboard rather than gate-checking it.
“This dual-hub service connects travelers to over 270 connections worldwide while providing the convenience and reliability our region deserves,” Rouleau said Monday.
The schedule is designed to accommodate both business and leisure travelers. An early morning departure to Chicago, leaving at 5 a.m., allows connections to the first wave of flights out of O’Hare. A midday flight to Houston departs at 2:12 p.m., with the return arriving at 11:41 p.m., making same-day round trips possible.
United passengers will have access to baggage transfers, frequent flyer benefits, and the airline’s mobile app for managing travel.
Community Support Key to Success
Rouleau credited local officials and business leaders for helping secure the service, including Paducah Mayor George Bray, McCracken County Judge Executive Craig Clymer, and Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Sandra Wilson.
The airport plans to launch a “Barkley Pledge Program” encouraging area residents to use the local airport rather than driving to Nashville, St. Louis, or other regional hubs.
Flight reservations are now available through United.com and other booking platforms. The first arriving flight from Chicago is scheduled to land at noon on February 24, 2026.
Barkley Regional Airport is located at 100 Terminal Drive in West Paducah. More information is available at flybarkley.com.
