Nashville International Airport Board Votes Unanimously to Rename Facility in Honor of Dolly Parton
On September 11, 2026, the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Board unanimously approved a 6-0 vote to alter its naming policy, allowing Nashville International Airport to be renamed in tribute to Dolly Parton, who passed away at 80. This decision followed a petition that garnered 175,000 signatures. Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee expressed his backing for this honor, recognizing Parton's importance to the state. The existing policy mandates a two-year waiting period after a person's death before a renaming can occur, prompting the need for a policy revision or exception. Officials are currently exploring ways to celebrate Parton's name and legacy, with more information expected shortly. This will mark the first U.S. international airport named after a woman, as noted by Doug Kreulen, who emphasized Parton's commitment to diversity.
Key facts
- The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Board of Commissioners voted 6-0 on September 11, 2026, to modify its naming policy, initiating the renaming of Nashville International Airport for Dolly Parton.
- A Change.org petition supporting the renaming has been signed by 175,000 people.
- Dolly Parton passed away at age 80; she had lived in Nashville for over 50 years.
- Tennessee Governor Bill Lee supports the renaming, calling Parton the state's favorite daughter.
- Parton's theme park, Dollywood, is estimated to bring $1.8 billion annually to Tennessee.
- Current airport rules require a person to be deceased for at least two years before a renaming; the board must change the policy or make an exception to expedite.
- Once renamed, Nashville International Airport will be the first international commercial airport in the United States named after a woman.
- Nashville airport President and CEO Doug Kreulen stated that Parton's legacy reflects values of dignity, kindness, and opportunity.
Entities
Artists
- Dolly Parton
- Bill Lee
- Doug Kreulen
Institutions
- Nashville International Airport
- Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Board of Commissioners
- Change.org
- Dollywood
- Fly Nashville
Locations
- Nashville
- United States
- Tennessee