Paducah Barkley Regional Airport guide
Paducah Barkley Regional Airport (PDK) serves as a vital gateway for travelers visiting western Kentucky and the surrounding region. Whether you’re flying in for business, leisure, or to explore the historic charm of Paducah, this guide provides everything you need to know to make your airport experience smooth and stress‑free.
Overview
Paducah Barkley Regional Airport is a public-use airport located just a few miles northwest of downtown Paducah, Kentucky. Named after former U.S. Senator Alben W. Barkley, the airport handles both commercial passenger flights and general aviation traffic. With a single asphalt runway (Runway 2/20) measuring 6,500 feet, PDK accommodates regional jets, turboprops, and private aircraft. The airport’s modest size translates into shorter wait times, easy navigation, and friendly customer service—making it a preferred choice for many regional travelers.
Location and Access
- Address: 2700 Airport Road, Paducah, KY 42003
- Distance from Downtown: Approximately 5 miles (about a 10‑minute drive)
- Major Highways: Direct access via US‑60 and KY‑305; close to I‑24 via KY‑305
- Parking: Short‑term and long‑term lots available; rates start at $2 per hour for short‑term and $6 per day for long‑term
- Ground Transportation: Rental car counters (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise), taxi services, ride‑share pick‑up zones, and local shuttle options to hotels and the riverfront district
Airlines and Destinations
PDK is primarily served by Contour Airlines, offering daily flights to Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and seasonal service to other hubs. The airport also supports numerous charter operations and private flights. Key points:
| Destination | Airline | Frequency | Approx. Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago O’Hare (ORD) | Contour Airlines | Daily (morning & evening) | 1h 30m |
| Seasonal Charters | Various | As scheduled | Varies |
| General Aviation | Open to all | 24/7 | N/A |
Terminal Amenities
Despite its modest size, the airport provides a comfortable traveler experience:
- Waiting Area: Seating with charging stations and free Wi‑Fi
- Dining: Grab‑and‑go coffee bar and snack kiosk (open during flight hours)
- Restrooms: Family‑friendly facilities with baby‑changing stations
- Business Center: Work tables, printing services, and private meeting nooks (available upon request)
- Pet Relief Area: Outdoor space for service animals and pets
Travel Tips
- Arrive Early: Although security lines are typically short, aim to arrive 60 minutes before departure for domestic flights.
- Check Flight Status: Use the airport’s website or mobile app for real‑time updates; weather can affect schedules in winter.
- Parking Savings: Consider the long‑term lot if staying more than a day; weekly rates are discounted.
- Local Transit: The Paducah Transit Authority (PTA) offers Route 5 service connecting the airport to downtown and the riverfront museum district.
- Nearby Attractions: If you have a layover, the National Quilt Museum, River Discovery Center, and Historic Downtown Paducah are all within a 15‑minute drive.
Table: Quick Facts at a Glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Airport Code | PDK |
| Elevation | 410 ft (125 m) |
| Runway | 2/20 – 6,500 ft × 150 ft (asphalt) |
| Annual Passengers (2023) | ~120,000 |
| Customs / Immigration | Not available (domestic flights only) |
| Operating Hours | 4:30 AM – 10:00 PM (local time) |
| Nearest Major City | Paducah, KY (5 mi) |
| Nearest Interstate | I‑24 (via KY‑305) |
FAQ
Q: Does Paducah Barkley Regional Airport have international flights?
A: No, PDK currently handles only domestic and charter flights; there are no customs or immigration facilities.
Q: Are there any hotels directly at the airport?
A: There are no on‑site hotels, but several accommodations (e.g., Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn) are within a 5‑minute drive.
Q: Can I rent a car at the airport?
A: Yes, Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise operate counters in the terminal; reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel periods.
Q: Is there free Wi‑Fi available?
A: Complimentary Wi‑Fi is accessible throughout the terminal and parking areas.
Q: What are the ground transportation options from the airport to downtown Paducah?
A: Taxis, ride‑share apps (Uber/Lyft), hotel shuttles, and the PTA Route 5 bus provide convenient connections to downtown and local attractions.
Resources
- Official Airport Website: https://www.paducahebkairport.com
- Contour Airlines Flight Schedule: https://www.flycontour.com/schedule
- Paducah Transit Authority (PTA) Route Information: https://www.paducahtransit.org
- National Quilt Museum Visitor Info: https://www.quiltmuseum.org
- River Discovery Center: https://www.riverdiscoverycenter.org
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet – Airport Data: https://transportation.ky.gov
Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions about your upcoming trip through Paducah Barkley Regional Airport—safe travels!
