Nashville Airport to Honor Dolly Parton with Renaming

The board of the Nashville International Airport has decided to rename the airport in honor of Dolly Parton. The Metro Nashville Airport Authority board voted unanimously, 6-0, to begin the process. Currently, the final name has not been selected. The board is collaborating with relevant parties to thoughtfully integrate Dolly Parton’s name and legacy, as stated to CBS News.

This decision follows the recent passing of the legendary singer at age 80 after a private battle with cancer. Dolly Parton, a Tennessee native, was well-loved across the world. Gov. Bill Lee supported the naming process, emphasizing the airport should represent Tennessee’s ‘favorite daughter’ and reflect her musical, charitable, and faithful legacy.

“We are grateful for the tremendous support and enthusiasm from our community and Dolly’s fans around the world,”

an airport board statement praised. An online petition to rename the airport gathered over 175,000 signatures before her death. During a CBS Mornings interview in January 2025, Parton humorously commented on the petition, expressing her appreciation for what she initially thought was a joke.

Currently, the airport code is BNA, standing for Berry Field Nashville, named after Col. Harry S. Berry, reported local affiliate WTVF. Changing the airport’s name will also require the Federal Aviation Administration’s approval.

Across the U.S., several airports bear names of cultural and political figures. Examples include President Donald J. Trump International Airport in Florida, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, and John Wayne Airport in California.

In Tennessee, other efforts celebrating Parton include a legislative proposal by state Sen. Jessie Seal to recognize September 25 as “9 to 5” Day, in tribute to her famous song.