About Us

Our Story, Our People, Our Airport

The history of Barkley Regional Airport in Paducah, KY

From B-17 training to a brand-new terminal, Barkley Regional has been connecting the Purchase Region to the world for more than 75 years.

The History of

Barkley Regional Airport

1941
1941

Founding

Created by the U.S. War Department through the efforts of Senator Alben Barkley. Built as a military surplus airfield to support B-17 Bomber crew training from Dyersburg, TN.
1946
1946

First Commercial Flight

On April 1, 1946, a Chicago & Southern DC-3 departs Barkley, marking the start of 75+ years of continuous commercial airline service from Paducah.
1949
1949

Renamed Barkley Field

Renamed in honor of Vice President Alben Barkley, recognizing his role in establishing the airport.

1950s–2000s
1950s–2000s

Growth & Service

For decades, Barkley connects the Purchase Region to the world, with continuous improvements in service and facilities.

2023
2023

New Terminal Opens

A state-of-the-art terminal opens in June 2023, featuring modern amenities, local art, pet relief areas, and updated technology — proudly serving as the “Front Porch of the Purchase Region.

2026
2026

80th Anniversary

Barkley Regional Airport celebrates 80 years of service, honoring eight decades of connecting Western Kentucky to the world.

Our New

Terminal

The Front Porch of the Purchase Region

Our new terminal isn’t just a building, it’s a front door to Western Kentucky. Designed to showcase the people, places, and materials of our region, it provides travelers with the modern amenities they expect, while highlighting the southern hospitality that makes Barkley special.

Features Include

  • Modern, open, and efficient design
  • Power at every seat
  • Mother’s room & pet relief area
  • Local art installations
  • Affordable, convenient parking

This project represents decades of vision and planning and will serve as a catalyst for economic growth throughout Paducah and the greater region.

Disadvantaged Business

Enterprise (DBE)

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

Supporting Small & Minority-Owned Businesses

Barkley Regional Airport proudly participates in the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) DBE Program.

Careers

Join Our Team

Work With Us

Barkley Regional Airport is more than an airfield — it’s a team. From operations and administration to customer service and safety, our staff is committed to serving the region every day.

If you’re passionate about helping our region take flight, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Us

Get in Touch Today

We’re Here to Help

Reach out to our staff directly or use the numbers below for quick access to airport services.

Airport Staff

Dennis Rouleau

Executive Director

Luci Durrett Aguilera

Director of Operations

Carol Creason

Director of Administrative & Terminal Services

Kat Byars

Marketing Manager & Public Information Officer

Airport Administration

ATC Tower

Automated Weather (NWS)

Airfield Weather (ASOS)

Contour Airlines (local office)

Enterprise Car Rental

Hertz Car Rental

Four Rivers Aviation (FBO)

Four Rivers After-Hours

TSA (local office)

Your Airport, Your Region, Your Home

Barkley has always been about more than flights — it’s about connection. Whether you’re a traveler, partner, or community member, we’re proud to serve you as the Purchase Region’s front porch to the skies.