USDOT Picks SkyWest, Operating as United Express, to Provide Daily Service to Chicago, Washington, D.C.
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on January 08, 2026
The United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) has selected SkyWest Airlines, operating as United Express, to provide air service at North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB) under the Essential Air Service program for a four-year period.
Starting April 14, 2026, there will be 14 roundtrip United Express flights per week from CKB to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Service will be operated with 50-seat CRJ200 aircraft and scheduled to maximize
connection opportunities within United Airlines’ extensive network of domestic and international destinations at both hub airports.
connection opportunities within United Airlines’ extensive network of domestic and international destinations at both hub airports.
“We acknowledge US DOT’s selection of SkyWest Airlines to serve our community,” said Airport Director Rick Rock. “This service will provide travelers at CKB with seamless access to destinations around the world through United’s global network and we’re excited for what the future holds.”
Travelers can book flights on United Airlines by visiting www.united.com or calling 1-800-United-1. With the addition of these new United Express flights, alongside Allegiant, North Central West Virginia Airport continues to expand convenient and reliable travel options, strengthening regional connectivity to destinations nationwide and beyond.
About North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB): The North Central West Virginia Airport is a public airport located in Bridgeport, West Virginia. Serving as the Official Airport of WVU Athletics, it is operated by the Benedum Airport Authority and is currently served by two commercial airlines. SkyWest Airlines dba United Express will offer daily service to Chicago O’Hare and Washington Dulles this spring while Allegiant offers less than daily service to Orlando/Sanford and Tampa/St. Pete as well as seasonal service to Myrtle Beach and Destin-Fort Walton Beach. For more information on the airport visit www.flyckb.com.
Editor's Note: Shown above is a United Express flight taking off from NCWV Airport. This is the second time United Express has provided the flights from Bridgeport. The NCWV Airport recommended that the bid by American Airlines be chosen for the daily service that is provided through FAA funding, however, that was shot down by the DOT, who opted to go with United Express.
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