Tennessee officials are considering renaming Nashville International Airport in honor of country music legend Dolly Parton, recognizing her lasting influence on the state, global music and charitable causes.
Airport Renaming Proposal Announced
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced a proposal Friday to rename Nashville International Airport, commonly known by its airport code BNA, after Dolly Parton. The country music icon and Tennessee native died Tuesday at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer, according to earlier reports. Lee said he had contacted Parton’s representatives about the idea. Her team expressed gratitude for the widespread support and indicated that it was open to continuing discussions about the proposed tribute. The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority is expected to formally consider the proposal during its next meeting on September 17.
Honoring a Tennessee Music Legend
Governor Lee described Parton’s life and achievements as inseparable from Tennessee’s identity. Born and raised in the mountains of East Tennessee, she rose from humble beginnings to become one of the world’s most celebrated singers, songwriters and entertainers. Lee said naming the airport after Parton would allow Tennessee to welcome travelers with a lasting reminder of her music, generosity, faith and kindness. The governor characterized her as the state’s “favorite daughter” and said her career embodied the Volunteer Spirit associated with Tennessee.
Southwest Airlines’ Major Nashville Presence
The possible name change would affect one of Southwest Airlines’ most important airports. Nashville International Airport was recently ranked as the fifth-busiest airport in Southwest’s network, according to the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. The airline operates as many as 197 daily departures during peak periods and offers nonstop service to 75 destinations from Nashville. Southwest also maintains a dominant presence at Dallas Love Field, making the Nashville airport an important connection between Tennessee, North Texas and destinations throughout the United States.
Parton’s Connection to North Texas
Parton appeared in North Texas several times during her career and remained widely admired by audiences in the region. One of her most memorable recent appearances came in 2023, when she performed during halftime of the Thanksgiving Day NFL game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders. Her performance introduced her music and personality to another generation of viewers while reinforcing her nationwide popularity.
If approved, the airport renaming would create a permanent public tribute at one of Tennessee’s busiest gateways. However, the change is not yet final and must first be reviewed by the airport authority. The September meeting is expected to provide further details about the official process, required approvals and whether Nashville International Airport will ultimately carry Dolly Parton’s name.
