Nashville Airport Renaming Bid Advances After Unanimous Board Vote

The proposal to rename Nashville International Airport after Dolly Parton has moved a step forward, with the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority voting unanimously to begin the formal renaming process.

The authority's board approved the measure 6-0 on Friday. While the final name has not been settled, "Dolly Parton International Airport" has emerged as a likely option. Further approvals and planning remain necessary before any change takes effect.

In a statement after the vote, the authority said it was working with relevant parties to determine how Parton's name and legacy would be incorporated. It described the vote as the first step in a multi-stage process, adding that more definite plans are expected in the coming months. The authority also thanked the community and Parton's fans worldwide for their support.

The idea of naming the airport after Parton had been discussed before her death in August. In a January 2025 interview, while promoting a forthcoming Broadway musical, Parton was asked about the possibility. She called it "probably more of a joke than anything," but added that it would be fun to say, "Your flight is departin' from Nashville's D. Parton."

Public and political backing for the change has been substantial. More than 175,000 people have signed a Change.org petition in support. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell have also endorsed the proposal.

In late August, Lee said that from her rural East Tennessee home to global stages, Parton carried the Volunteer Spirit, and that it was fitting for the airport where Tennessee welcomes the world to bear the name of the state's favourite daughter, greeting travellers with her legacy of music, generosity, faith and kindness.

The rebranding is expected to involve considerable expense, as it would extend across the airport and its facilities. However, the airport's three-letter designation, BNA, would remain unchanged.