Tennessee Governor Proposes Renaming Nashville Airport After Dolly Parton

<p>Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Nashville International Airport announced on August 28, 2026, that they intend to rename the airport in honor of Dolly Parton following her death. The proposal is a tribute to the country music legend, who passed away at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer.</p><p>Governor Lee stated that he spoke with Parton's team about the proposal, which they appreciated and are open to discussing further. The proposal aims to connect the airport with Parton's legacy, which includes her music, philanthropy, and strong ties to Tennessee.</p><p>Lee remarked, "Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state. From her rural mountain home in East Tennessee to global stages, Dolly carried the Volunteer Spirit with her. At a place where Tennessee welcomes the world, it is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the name of our state’s favorite daughter and greet travelers with the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness."</p><p>The announcement follows a Change.org petition titled "Rename Nashville International Airport to Dolly Parton International Airport," which has garnered 155,501 verified signatures. The petition was initially launched in January 2025 by Lydia Popovich and Dan Dion, who highlighted Parton's influence beyond her music, including her philanthropic efforts and the Imagination Library literacy program.</p><p>In light of Parton's passing, the petition has seen a surge in support. Tennessee State Representative Todd Warner expressed his intention to introduce legislation to support the name change, stating, "Yes I will definitely introduce legislation to rename the BNA airport Dolly Parton International Airport! Thanks, TW."</p><p>Nashville Council member Russ Bradford also indicated he would sponsor a resolution asking the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority to consider the name change, emphasizing that the authority has the final decision.</p><p>The proposal carries significance as Parton previously declined a statue in her honor at the state Capitol, stating that it was not the right time for such recognition due to broader societal challenges. She expressed hope that Tennessee might honor her in the future.</p><p>The Metro Nashville Airport Authority is scheduled to discuss the proposal at its next meeting on September 17, 2026.</p>