Nashville International Airport to be Renamed After Dolly Parton

That was quick! The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority voted unanimously, 6-0, today (Sept. 11, 2026) to begin the process of modifying the airport’s name in honor of Dolly Parton. It marks the first step toward renaming Nashville International Airport in honor of the beloved singer-songwriter-actress-philanthropist who died on August 25, at age 80, following a brief battle with cancer. Parton first came to prominence as a country music performer.

It’s official! The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Board of Commissioners voted unanimously, 6 to 0, to modify our existing naming policy, marking the first step toward renaming Nashville International Airport® in honor of Dolly Parton. pic.twitter.com/e1N7oF6PBo

— Fly Nashville (@Fly_Nashville) September 11, 2026

The agency added, “While a final name has not yet been determined, we are working closely with the appropriate parties to thoughtfully determine how Dolly Parton’s name and legacy will be incorporated. 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.

“We are grateful for the tremendous support and enthusiasm from our community and Dolly’s fans around the world. We look forward to sharing additional details as plans are finalized.”

The airport’s Facebook page noted: “This is an exciting and historic moment for BNA® and Music City.”

Parton, born January 19, 1946, in a one-room cabin in Pittman Center, Tenn., released over 200 singles during her extraordinary career. 1970’s “Joshua” was her first to reach #1 on the Country chart. Among the other songs she wrote are such classics as “I Will Always Love You,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “Tennessee Homesick Blues.” She holds the record for the most #1 Country singles by a female artist with 25.