United Express flights to Chicago, Houston begin today at Barkley Airport

The region's brand new air service begins today at Barkley Regional Airport.

SkyWest Airlines, operating as United Express, will begin the new service from Barkley to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and to George Bush Intercontinental at Houston.

According to the airport, the new daily jet service features 14 round-trip weekly flights, with more than 270 worldwide connections.

The airport said SkyWest will operate CRJ550 aircraft, featuring first class, economy plus and economy seating.

Late last year, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded SkyWest/United Express the Essential Air Service contract out of Barkley.

An official ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Friday at 3 p.m. at the airport terminal. It'll include remarks from airport management and local leaders, along with light refreshments.

On Monday, March 2, Cody Thomas from Skywest will be the speaker at the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce Power in Partnership breakfast.