Nashville Airport May Be Renamed for Dolly Parton

Nashville International Airport could soon be renamed in honor of the late Dolly Parton. Tennessee’s Governor, Bill Lee, announced on Friday his proposal to rename the airport to honor the legendary country music icon, who passed away from cancer at 80.

Bill Lee emphasized the connection between Tennessee and Dolly Parton in his statement. He stated, “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 and greet travelers with the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness.” The governor has already initiated discussions with Parton’s representatives about this proposal.

An online petition, which has garnered support from over 157,000 fans, aligns with Governor Lee’s initiative. Though the petition has been active for over a year, it experienced a surge in signatures following Parton’s death. This petition has received support from Tennessee state Representative Todd Warner and singer Sheryl Crow.

Nashville International Airport currently showcases the city’s rich music heritage. It hosts outposts for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Grand Ole Opry, and features live performances.

In the United States, a few airports are named after notable figures. Some examples include President Donald J. Trump International Airport in West Palm Beach, Florida, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, and John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California.

Dolly Parton, who rose from poverty in the Great Smoky Mountains, became an icon with broad appeal. Her hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” have left a lasting impact. She also starred in films such as “9 to 5” and “Steel Magnolias.”

The renaming may require the Metro Nashville Airport Authority to re-evaluate its naming policies. Currently, the policy specifies that airport properties should be named for individuals deceased for at least two years. Governor Lee’s proposal and this policy will be reviewed in the airport authority’s meeting on September 17.

In other efforts to honor Parton, Tennessee state Senator Jessie Seal has introduced legislation to designate September 25 as “9 to 5” Day, paying tribute to Parton’s well-known anthem.