BRAA Makes Airline Recommendation; Paducah to Gain 271 One-Stop Global Routes
WEST PADUCAH, KY (July 8, 2025) — The Barkley Regional Airport Authority Board (BRAA) has formally recommended SkyWest Airlines, operating with United, to provide commercial air service at Barkley Regional Airport (PAH) under the Essential Air Service (EAS) contract, beginning December 2025.
The unanimous vote came during a special called meeting on Tuesday, July 8, at the airport terminal and marks a major step forward in improving air connectivity and service quality for the region. The recommendation will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation, which will make the final determination.
“This recommendation is what the Essential Air Service program is all about, ensuring communities like ours have access to air travel that meets the expectations of today’s flying public,” said Barkley Regional Airport Authority Board Chairman Emily Roark. “This option not only restores much-needed connectivity but also provides a product that matches the quality and vision of our modern terminal.”
The proposal includes service to two major hubs, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, with seamless one-stop connections to 271 global destinations through a fully branded codeshare partnership with United Airlines. Flights will be operated using a CRJ-550 aircraft featuring a pressurized cabin with seating for 50 passengers in a dual-class configuration.
“This is a full-service, airline solution that aligns with the standards travelers expect from a facility like ours,” said Airport Executive Director Dennis Rouleau. “From business flyers to leisure travelers, this provides the scale, reliability, and network reach that will allow our airport and community to grow beyond the limitations of the EAS program.”
The board also acknowledged Contour Airlines’ role in maintaining service at Barkley since 2022.
“We are sincerely grateful for Contour’s service and partnership during a transitional time for the airport,” said Rouleau. “They stepped up when it mattered most, and we appreciate their contributions to our region.”
The airport prioritizes rebuilding business travel and considers this selection a critical step toward reconnecting with passengers who previously relied on regional service. Airport leaders also anticipate increased demand for on-site rental car services as more business travelers return to flying from Barkley.
“This opens the door for the region to rejoin the global economy more directly. With one-stop access to destinations like Sydney, Australia, and countless others, we’re not just flying to bigger cities, we’re connecting the region to the world,” said Chair of Barkley Blue Skies Alliance, Mike Stone. “Know the board and the air service development committee spent many months to make an informed choice with the community in mind.”
The Department of Transportation will decide on the EAS selection within the coming months. The new EAS contract will take effect in December 2025 pending federal approval. Travelers planning to book flights for business or leisure after Dec. 1 can expect SkyWest Airlines to begin accepting reservations around September 2025.
“We’re confident this recommendation represents a transformative opportunity,” added Rouleau. “And as we continue to rebuild our passenger base, we believe it brings us closer to a future where we can ultimately operate without the need for EAS support.”
The board expressed its sincere gratitude to Air Service Development Consultant Luke Schmidt and the full Air Service Development Committee, including Paducah Mayor George Bray, McCracken County Judge-Executive Craig Clymer, Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Sandra Wilson, Barkley Blue Skies Alliance Chairman Mike Stone, Paducah Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Alyssa Phares, and the community for their support and commitment to the region’s growth.
Barkley Regional Airport is at 100 Terminal Drive, West Paducah, KY, 42086. For additional information, contact Kat Byars, Marketing Manager and Public Information Officer, at 270-493-6731 or kat@flybarkley.com.
