Nashville Airport Moves Closer to Renaming in Honor of Dolly Parton

Nashville Airport Considers Dolly Parton Name Change

Nashville International Airport is on the path to potentially being renamed in honor of the iconic Dolly Parton. The Metro Nashville Airport Authority Board recently voted unanimously to begin the process of changing the airport’s name. This decision follows a significant public push, including a petition that gathered over 175,000 signatures. While the vote marks a major step, the airport is not yet officially renamed.

The process ahead involves several key stages. Officials must consult with Dolly Parton’s estate, make necessary policy changes, and secure approvals from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The transition is estimated to cost between $8 million and $10 million and could take anywhere from six months to a full year to complete. The airport’s current three-letter code, BNA, is expected to remain the same throughout this period.

Steps Toward Renaming Nashville International Airport

The Metro Nashville Airport Authority Board’s 6-0 vote on September 11, 2026, authorized the airport’s CEO, Doug Kreulen, to start the work needed for a potential name change. This includes developing a timeline and identifying all required approvals. A critical part of this process is consulting with Dolly Parton’s estate to determine how her name and legacy will be incorporated into the new airport identity. One idea being discussed is “Dolly Parton Nashville International Airport.”

The board’s action is a response to widespread public support for honoring Parton, who is often called “our state’s favorite daughter” by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. His endorsement highlighted Parton’s “music, generosity, faith, and kindness.” The move also requires addressing the airport’s current naming policy, which traditionally requires a person to have been deceased for at least two years and to have made a significant impact on aviation in Tennessee. Since Dolly Parton is living, this policy will need to be revised or removed.

What the Renaming Process Entails

The resolution passed by the board is the beginning of a formal approval process, not the final legal name change. Doug Kreulen is tasked with creating a detailed plan that accounts for all necessary steps. This includes getting the approval of Dolly Parton’s estate and other relevant parties. The FAA will also play a role in the administrative procedures.

The final wording of the new airport name is still to be determined, with the authority stating they are “working closely with the appropriate parties to thoughtfully determine how Dolly Parton’s name and legacy will be incorporated.” The airport code BNA will continue to be used to identify the facility during the transition period, offering a sense of continuity.

Estimated Costs and Timeline for the Name Change

The financial and time commitments for renaming Nashville International Airport are substantial. Officials estimate the project could cost between $8 million and $10 million. Funding for this transition is expected to come from a combination of metro, state, and airport resources. The visible changes will be extensive, likely involving a complete overhaul of airport signage and updating administrative records.

The timeline for the official name change is projected to be between six months and one year. This period allows for the completion of all necessary approvals, policy adjustments, and the physical rebranding of the airport. The board’s vote has moved the proposal from a public campaign to a formal operational undertaking, led by CEO Doug Kreulen. The unanimous support from the six board members underscores the strong backing for this potential honor.

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