Nashville Airport Moves Closer to Being Renamed in Honour of Dolly Parton

Nashville International Airport has moved one step closer to being renamed in honour of country music legend Dolly Parton.

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority voted unanimously, 6–0, on September 11 to begin the process of modifying the airport’s name.

Officials stressed that a final name has not yet been selected. However, the Nashville Metropolitan Council has formally proposed Dolly Parton International Airport.

The airport authority said it will work with the relevant parties to determine how Dolly’s name and legacy should be incorporated. Further details about the new name and its implementation are expected over the coming months.

Support for the tribute has grown since Dolly died on August 25 at the age of 80. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee previously described the singer as the state’s “favourite daughter” and said it was fitting for Nashville’s airport to celebrate her music, generosity and kindness.

Alongside an extraordinary career spanning more than six decades, Dolly became renowned for her philanthropy. Her Imagination Library has provided free books to children around the world, while her music and unmistakable personality helped carry the identity of Tennessee to a global audience.

Although the airport’s final name remains undecided, the unanimous vote represents the first official step towards creating a permanent tribute to one of the most influential and beloved artists in music history.

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