Travelers can now book United Express flights from Owensboro as the Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport prepares to launch new commercial air service to two major airline hubs this fall.
United Express, operated by SkyWest Airlines, will begin service to Washington Dulles International Airport on Oct. 13, followed by service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport on Oct. 25.
Airport Director Tristan Durbin said the announcement marks a significant milestone in the evolution of commercial air service in Owensboro.
“This is a really great opportunity for the community,” Durbin said. “If you look back just a few years ago, we were operating a nine-seat prop aircraft. To fast forward just a few years and now be able to announce United Airlines service to two major hubs is a tremendous accomplishment.”
The new service replaces Contour Airlines as Owensboro’s federally subsidized Essential Air Service carrier.
Durbin said there will be no interruption in commercial air service during the transition. Contour Airlines will continue operating its current schedule until United Express begins service.
He said flights are now available for purchase through United’s website and mobile app.
Passengers will be able to book their entire trip on a single itinerary, earn and redeem United MileagePlus miles, receive boarding passes and flight notifications directly through United, and check baggage through to their final destination, according to Durbin.
Durbin said the flights will be operated under the United Express brand by SkyWest Airlines using 50-seat regional jets, increasing available seating compared to the aircraft currently serving Owensboro.
The airport announced earlier this summer that the U.S. Department of Transportation selected United Express as Owensboro’s next Essential Air Service provider after the airport board recommended the proposal. The federally subsidized program ensures commercial air service remains available in smaller communities.
He added that the new routes will connect Owensboro travelers to United’s extensive domestic and international network through the airline’s hubs in Chicago and Washington, D.C.
“The options out of both Chicago and Dulles are just so vast,” Durbin said. “We’re excited.”
Durbin said the expanded connectivity has the potential to benefit both business and leisure travelers while strengthening the region’s economy.
He also said community support will be critical to growing air service and attracting additional destinations beyond the Essential Air Service program in the future.
Airport officials encourage travelers to consider flying from Owensboro whenever possible, noting that increased passenger numbers could help position the airport for future service expansion.
