SkyWest Bringing New United Service from Paducah to Chicago and Houston Starting February 2026
WEST PADUCAH, KY (October 27, 2025) — Barkley Regional Airport (PAH) is proud to announce that United Airlines, operated by SkyWest Airlines, will launch new daily service from Paducah to both Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) beginning Tuesday, February 24, 2026, with the first arrival from Chicago scheduled for noon that day.
This exciting milestone connects Western Kentucky travelers to two of United’s largest global hubs, offering 14 round-trip flights each week and hundreds of convenient worldwide connections, all from your hometown airport.
SkyWest will operate flights on the state-of-the-art CRJ550 aircraft, a 50-seat jet that’s larger far exceeds the experience of the smaller CRJ200 and ERJ135/145 aircraft previously common in Essential Air Service (EAS) markets. The CRJ550 offers three distinct cabin classes: First, Economy Plus, and Economy, ensuring a level of comfort and service that sets a new standard for superior air travel at Barkley.
Passengers can now also bring their carry-on luggage onboard instead of gate-checking it at the cabin door, enjoy spacious seating and amenities, and experience the quality and consistency of United’s global service standard.
“Securing this new Essential Air Service contract with SkyWest Airlines, operating as United Airlines, is a major leap forward for Barkley and the communities we serve,” said Dennis Rouleau, Executive Director of Barkley Regional Airport. “This dual-hub service connects travelers to over 270 connections worldwide while providing the convenience and reliability our region deserves.”
The new schedule is tailored to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers alike:
New Flight Schedule (Effective February 24, 2026)
Route Departure Arrival
PAH → ORD 5:00 a.m. 6:40 a.m. (Beginning February 25, 2026)
ORD → PAH 12:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m.
PAH → IAH 2:12 p.m. 4:25 p.m.
IAH → PAH 9:30 p.m. 11:41 p.m.
The early morning departure to Chicago allows travelers to connect with the first bank of flights out of O’Hare, beating typical delays and giving access to dozens of East Coast destinations without the time-zone penalty.
Meanwhile, westbound travelers can easily connect to major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, often aboard wide-body aircraft featuring lie-flat business seating.
The evening return from Houston makes same-day round-trip flights possible, perfect for business travelers seeking a one-day turnaround or those seeking access to the Caribbean connections.
With United Airlines, passengers regain the benefits of a full codeshare experience, including features like baggage transfers, loyalty points, and seamless travel management offered through the industry-leading United mobile app.
“Why drive more than two hours to another airport when you can now access the same global network right here in Paducah?” said Rouleau. “This partnership with SkyWest and United Airlines brings convenience, comfort, and world-class service to your doorstep.”
Rouleau emphasized that this success reflects the dedication of countless local leaders and partners.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the support of Mayor George Bray, McCracken County Judge Executive Craig Clymer, Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce CEO and City Commissioner Sandra Wilson, CVB Executive Director Alyssa Phares, Mike Stone, Chairman of BBSA, Air Service Development Consultant Luke Schmidt, and the entire Barkley Regional Airport Authority Board of Directors,” Rouleau said. “Their commitment to our region’s growth and connectivity made this vision a reality.”
The flight schedule is currently being loaded into the United reservation system. Flight reservations are available through United.com, FlyBarkley.com, and other major travel platforms.
“Barkley’s success relies on the community’s continued commitment to flying local,” Rouleau added. “We will soon launch the Barkley Pledge Program to encourage travelers to make Barkley their first choice.”
For the past 80 years, Barkley Regional Airport has been a cornerstone of safe, convenient, and reliable air travel for the Paducah region and its surrounding communities. As we look ahead to the next 80 years, we are committed to continuing this legacy, thanks to the invaluable support of our partners and community members. Together, we will ensure that Barkley remains a vital transportation hub, connecting Western Kentucky travelers to destinations across the globe.
Barkley Regional Airport is at 100 Terminal Drive, West Paducah, KY, 42086. For more information, visit flybarkley.com or follow the Barkley Regional Airport Facebook page and Instagram: @FlyBarkley.