WEST PADUCAH, KY (March 5, 2026) — Barkley Regional Airport (PAH) is inviting the Purchase Region to take a simple but impactful step toward strengthening local air service: consider your hometown airport first and think Barkley when planning travel.
The new Fly Barkley Pledge challenges travelers, business and leisure, across the Purchase Region to consider their hometown airport first and think Barkley when planning travel. The initiative is designed to show measurable community support as the airport enters a new era of connectivity through United Express service, operated by SkyWest Airlines.
Daily nonstop flights now connect the Purchase Region to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) via United, operated by SkyWest Airlines. These major global hubs provide one-stop access to over 270 destinations worldwide through the United network. This expanded connectivity marks a pivotal moment for Barkley Regional Airport, positioning the community for greater economic opportunity, business growth, and long-term stability of regional air service.
“We have secured a tremendous opportunity for this region, securing United service, operated by SkyWest,” said Dennis Rouleau, Executive Director of Barkley Regional Airport. “However, air service is not guaranteed; it must be supported for the airport to sustain and grow. Airlines follow the numbers, and those numbers are driven by our community’s travel decisions. Choosing Barkley is not just convenient. It is critical to sustain and expand service for the future.”
How the Pledge Works
The program includes both an Individual Pledge and a Business/Organization Pledge. Given the signer the option to take the pledge on their own accord or represent their organization.
Businesses, community leaders, frequent flyers, and community members are encouraged to publicly take the pledge and share their support on social media and in internal communications. All participants receive a digital badge, recognition, and the option to receive periodic updates highlighting the impact of collective participation.
Why It Matters
Airlines closely monitor passenger demand and booking trends when making long-term service decisions. Every ticket purchased locally strengthens Barkley’s case for sustained and expanded service.
When travelers choose to drive to distant airports, that demand leaves the region. When they Fly Local, Fly Barkley, it supports:
- A more resilient regional economy
- Increased business recruitment and retention
- Tourism growth
- Greater global access for the Purchase Region
The Barkley Pledge is not a binding promise, contract, or long-term obligation; it is a simple shift in mindset. The pledge is designed to build awareness and encourage travelers to check Barkley first when making travel plans and consider starting their trip close to home. By taking a moment to look at local options before booking elsewhere, travelers show support for the long-term growth of their hometown airport.
“We take pride in shopping local and supporting local businesses, but air service is no different,” Rouleau said. “If we believe in investing in our community, that includes choosing to fly local when we can. The Purchase Region is an incredible place to live and work because of the people who show up for it. We saw that firsthand during the Essential Air Service (EAS) process through petitions, letters of support, and countless conversations. That community commitment helped bring us to this moment. Now we build on it by continuing to show airlines that this region stands behind its airport.”
Take the Pledge
Travelers can take the pledge online at FlyBarkley.com or click here and join a growing list of community members who are choosing to think local first.
Strong air service does not happen by accident. It is earned, supported, and sustained by the people and businesses who use it. Every ticket booked locally sends a clear message that this region values connectivity and intends to keep it. The Purchase Region stepped up during the EAS process to help secure this opportunity. Now is the time to build that momentum.
The future of Barkley Regional Airport will be shaped by the travel decisions made every day. And today, the Purchase Region has the chance to lead by example.