Source: The Points Guy
Summary
Dolly Parton’s death has accelerated calls to rename Nashville International Airport (BNA) in her honor. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority announced the proposal, citing her cultural impact and philanthropy. A Change.org petition, launched in January 2025, has gathered over 175,000 signatures. The airport’s name change will be evaluated by the Metro Nashville Airport Authority. Parton had previously dismissed the idea as a joke.
Our Reading
The destination is rediscovered.
Travelers will depart from a name that echoes a legend.
Music City’s front door gets a new identity.
Philanthropy and fame merge in a public gesture.
Parton’s legacy becomes a gateway.
Renaming an airport is the ultimate tribute — and the ultimate marketing stunt.
Author: Evan Null
Background on the Name Change
Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25 at age 80, was a central figure in country music and a major philanthropist. Her legacy includes the Imagination Library, which sends books to children globally. The proposal to rename BNA in her honor gained momentum after her death.
Public Support and Process
The Tennessee governor and airport authority announced their support for the name change. The Metro Council also backed the proposal. The airport authority will evaluate the current naming policy and the proposal in September 2025.
Prior Efforts and Public Reaction
A Change.org petition, launched in January 2025, called for the name change, highlighting Parton’s cultural and charitable contributions. The petition has over 175,000 signatures. Parton herself had dismissed the idea as a joke in January 2025.
Other Airports Named After People
There are 13 U.S. airports named after presidents. Other examples include John Wayne Airport and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The proposal for a Trump airport in Florida was successful, but the one in Tennessee was rejected.
Traveler Options in Tennessee
Parton fans can visit Dollywood, stay at her resorts, or book a stay in her retired tour bus. The airport itself offers live music, postsecurity cocktails, and a guest pass program for visitors.
