Tennessee Leaders Move to Rename Nashville Airport After Dolly Parton
Nashville, Friday, 28 August 2026.
Following country legend Dolly Parton’s passing, Tennessee officials and airport leaders proposed renaming Nashville International Airport in her honor, backed by a 150,000-signature petition and an estimated $10 million rebrand.
Strategic Rebranding and Economic Intent
On August 28, 2026, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Nashville International Airport (BNA) leadership formally announced a proposal to rename the facility in honor of Dolly Parton [1][2]. This strategic rebranding effort aims to leverage Parton’s global cultural appeal to further boost Middle Tennessee’s tourism sector and regional economic growth [1]. State leaders indicated that the move marks a high-profile initiative for one of the fastest-growing transit hubs in the United States economy [1]. The proposal was coordinated with legislative bodies to finalize the name change, reflecting a concerted effort by state and airport authorities [1][3].
Public Sentiment and Petition Momentum
The proposal follows a significant surge in public support, driven by a Change.org petition that originally launched in January 2025 [2][4]. Following Parton’s death on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80, the petition gained substantial traction, accumulating over 150,000 signatures by August 28, 2026 [3][5]. Prior to this period, the petition had reached approximately 50,000 signatures by April 2025, indicating a growth rate of 200 percent in public engagement over the observed timeframe [4][5]. Organizers stated the campaign seeks to ensure visitors experience the values of love and acceptance associated with Parton upon arrival in Tennessee [5][6].
Policy Barriers and Rebranding Costs
Despite the support, the renaming process faces regulatory hurdles under current Metro Nashville Airport Authority policy, which prohibits naming facilities after living individuals or those deceased for less than two years [2][6]. Additionally, the policy requires the individual to have made significant contributions to the authority or Middle Tennessee aviation [2]. The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority is scheduled to address these naming policy barriers during a board meeting on September 17, 2026 [2][3]. Financial estimates from February 2025 suggest the total cost to rename the 4,500-acre facility, including signage and legal amendments, could reach $10.34 million [2].
Legislative Pathways and Future Honors
To facilitate the change, Tennessee lawmakers are preparing legislation to officially rename the airport when the General Assembly convenes in January 2027 [3][6]. State Representative Todd Warner indicated an intention to file the bill as a priority item in the upcoming legislative session [6]. Concurrently, separate legislation is being planned to designate September 25, 2026, as “9 to 5 Day” in honor of Parton’s legacy [3]. Airport President and CEO Doug Kreulen noted that while BNA is the front door to Music City, the community must reflect the best of its values through such decisions [3][6].