Nashville International Airport changing its name to honor Dolly Parton

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority cast a unanimous 6-0 vote to rename the site after the Queen Of Country.

By Jarrod Jones  |  September 12, 2026 | 1:01pm
Photo: David Redfern/Getty Images
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Nashville International Airport changing its name to honor Dolly Parton

As tributes to the famed country music superstar Dolly Parton continue to pour in following her passing in late August, the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority announced it has entered “the process of modifying” the Nashville International Airport’s name “in honor of Dolly Parton,” according to a statement released Friday. The authority voted unanimously, 6-0. “While a final name has not yet been determined,” it said, “we are working closely with the appropriate parties to thoughtfully determine how Dolly Parton’s name and legacy will be incorporated.” The airport is already celebrating the change, having posted the announcement on its official Instagram account. 

“This vote represents the first step in a multifaceted process. In the coming months, we anticipate having more definitive plans to share regarding the next steps and implementation,” the statement continued.

This decision follows an enthusiastic petition to rename the airport, started by Nashville comedian Lydia Popovich and photographer Dan Dion before the singer’s death, which gained significant momentum in its wake and ultimately reached over 175,000 signatures. However, the MNAA didn’t need much convincing, as Governor Bill Lee formally announced his intent to rename the airport on August 28. According to PBS, the change could take “a year or more” as officials discuss with Parton’s estate how any merchandising profits would be divided.

 
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