SkyWest launching daily United Express jet service from Paducah to Chicago and Houston
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
PADUCAH, Ky., (KBSI) – Big things are taking off at Barkley Regional Airport. Beginning Feb. 24, 2026, SkyWest Airlines, operating as United Express, will launch daily jet service from Paducah to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
The new routes mark a major upgrade for western Kentucky travelers, connecting Paducah directly to two of United Airlines’ largest hubs. The service will include 14 round-trip flights each week and access to more than 270 global destinations — all without the long drive to larger airports.
Flights will be operated on the CRJ550, a 50-seat regional jet featuring First, Economy Plus, and Economy seating. The aircraft offers upgraded comfort and amenities designed to provide a big-city travel experience from a hometown airport.
Daily Schedule (Effective Feb. 24, 2026):
PAH → ORD (Chicago): 5:00 a.m. – 6:40 a.m.
ORD → PAH (Paducah): 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
PAH → IAH (Houston): 2:12 p.m. – 4:25 p.m.
IAH → PAH (Paducah): 9:30 p.m. – 11:41 p.m.
The early morning departure to Chicago aligns with United’s first bank of outbound flights, allowing travelers to reach dozens of East Coast cities before noon. The evening arrival from Houston offers business travelers flexibility for same day return trips and convenient access to United’s Caribbean and western U.S. connections.
“This new service is a game changer for the region,” airport officials said in a statement. “It brings world-class connectivity to Paducah and offers residents and businesses the convenience of starting their journey close to home.”
Tickets are available now at United Airlines – Airline Tickets, Travel Deals and Flights and Save Time, Money & Peace Of Mind. Fly Barkley Regional Airport!.
