Nashville International Airport is moving forward with plans to add Dolly Parton’s name to one of Tennessee’s busiest gateways.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority board voted unanimously Friday to support renaming the airport in honor of the late singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Airport leaders must still determine the official wording of the new name.
One proposal would rename the facility Dolly Parton International Airport. The familiar BNA airport code is expected to remain unchanged.
The vote follows growing support from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, and the Metro Nashville Council. The council previously adopted a resolution asking the airport authority to approve the Dolly Parton International Airport name.
The idea also gained momentum through a fan petition that attracted more than 150,000 signatures.
Lee publicly backed the tribute after speaking with representatives from Parton’s team. Her representatives expressed appreciation for the support and said they were open to continuing the conversation.
Parton died on August 25, 2026, at age 80. She spent more than six decades building a career that made her one of Tennessee’s most recognizable figures. Beyond songs including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You,” she became known for philanthropy through the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library.
Her Imagination Library has distributed free books to children around the world, extending her influence far beyond music and entertainment.
The airport authority’s existing policy generally requires an honoree to have been deceased for at least two years before an airport property can carry that person’s name. Nashville officials requested an exception because of Parton’s impact on the state, its tourism industry, and its global identity.
If the change is finalized, Parton would become the first woman to have her name attached to one of the 50 busiest airports in the United States.
The airport authority has not announced when the final name will be selected or when new signage and branding could appear.
