You may indeed soon be “Departin’ from Parton?”
Update 8/29/30.
It looks like Nashville International Airport (BNA) is moving closer to officially being renamed for Dolly Parton.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Nashville International Airport announced their intent to name BNA in honor of Dolly Parton. The celebrated singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actor and smart cookie died on August 25, 2026
The renaming could move quite quickly.
The airport authority’s current Naming Policy and Gov. Lee’s proposal to rename the airport will be addressed at the airport autority’s meeting on Thursday, September 17.
“Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state,” said Lee, “At a place where Tennessee welcomes the world, it is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the ame of our state’s favorite daughter and greet travelers with the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness.”
Officials at the airport agree.
“BNA is the front door to Music City, and with that comes a responsibility to reflect the very best of who we are as a community,” said Doug Kreulen, president and CEO, Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. “Dolly’s remarkable legacy reminds us that what makes Nashville special is our ability to welcome people from every walk of life…Whether you are boarding a private aircraft or taking your first flight, you deserve to be welcomed, respected and served with the same level of care. That spirit is what defines BNA and it is a fitting reflection of the values Dolly shared with Tennessee and the world.”
Since Parton’s death, a Change.org petition launched in January, 2025 by two Parton fans is getting renewed attention. Last time we checked, more than 162.000 verified signatures had been logged.
Meanwhile, BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport set the accent lighting in it A/B Connector to pink to honor Dolly Parton. And George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) reminded travelers that Parton is honored in an airport exhibit.
