A unanimous board vote has approved the plan to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of Dolly Parton. This decision comes after the passing of the country music icon and marks a significant moment for the city and state of Tennessee.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Board of Commissioners. Voted 6-0 to change the airport’s naming policy. This move is the official step toward updating the identity of the main airport serving Music City.
The board cast a 6-0 vote.
The decision changes the airports naming policy to allow for a name change.
The current airport code, BNA will stay the same.
The exact name of the airport after the renaming is still under discussion.
Support Grows Across Tennessee
The idea to rename the airport began in 2025 with a petition on change.org. After Dolly Parton passed away the proposal gained backing from Tennessee lawmakers and the Metro Nashville City Council.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee officially announced the state’s intent to honor Dolly at the airport. He said the decision followed conversations with her team. He noted that since BNA is the stop for many visitors coming into Tennessee it makes sense to reflect her legacy there.
"Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state. From her 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..."
Next Steps
Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority said he supports the move. He spoke about the airport’s role as the door to Music City and praised Dolly Parton’s values of care and respect for everyone.
In a statement the airport authority said that while the vote begins the process the final name has not been set. They plan to work with partners, in the coming months to decide on the name and how to implement the change.
