Tennessee is taking steps toward giving one of its most famous landmarks a new name in honor of the late country music legend Dolly Parton.
On Friday, August 28, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Nashville International Airport, commonly known as BNA, announced their intent to rename the airport in honor of Parton, creating what officials described as a lasting tribute to her extraordinary legacy and impact on Tennessee and beyond.
The proposal comes just days after Parton’s death at the age of 80. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, musicians, celebrities and leaders across the country.
A Lasting Tribute to a Tennessee Icon
Governor Lee said the proposed airport naming would recognize Parton’s enormous contributions to the state and the generations of people she inspired through her music, philanthropy and personal story.
Parton was born in Sevier County, Tennessee, and went on to become one of the most recognizable figures in country music. Her career included decades of hit songs, movies, business ventures and charitable work.
Beyond her music, Parton became especially known for her commitment to helping children through the Dollywood Foundation and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which has provided free books to children around the world.
Her connection to Tennessee has remained a central part of her identity throughout her career.
Dolly’s Team Responds to the Proposal
According to Governor Lee, he reached out to Parton’s team about the idea of naming the airport after her.
Her representatives reportedly responded that they were “touched by the idea and open to continuing the conversation.”
That response means the proposal is moving forward, but the airport has not yet officially changed its name.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority has a formal naming process for facilities under its control, meaning additional steps and approval are still required before the proposed name can become official.
The Airport Is Not Officially Renamed Yet
While the announcement has generated excitement among Dolly Parton’s fans, it is important to note that BNA has not yet officially become Dolly Parton International Airport.
The announcement represents an intention and partnership to pursue the honor. Airport officials will still need to follow the established naming process before a final decision is made.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority previously explained that its naming policy establishes the criteria and formal process for naming buildings, spaces, facilities and streets under its authority.
That process will determine the next steps for the proposed tribute.
A Fitting Honor for the Queen of Country Music
For many fans, the idea of attaching Dolly Parton’s name to Nashville’s major international gateway carries special meaning.
Nashville has long been known around the world as the heart of country music, while Parton became one of the genre’s most influential and beloved ambassadors.
Her music helped introduce generations of listeners to country music, while her unmistakable personality and philanthropic efforts made her famous far beyond the entertainment industry.
Naming Nashville’s airport after Parton would therefore create a permanent connection between the city, Tennessee’s musical heritage and one of the state’s most recognizable daughters.
BNA is also one of the region’s busiest transportation hubs. The airport reported a record 26.7 million passengers during its 2026 fiscal year, making it a major gateway for visitors arriving in Nashville and Tennessee.
The Conversation Continues
For now, travelers should continue to expect the airport to operate under its current official name, Nashville International Airport, or BNA.
But if the proposal receives the necessary approval, the airport could soon carry Dolly Parton’s name as a permanent tribute to a woman whose influence reached far beyond music.
For Tennessee, it would be more than simply changing the name of an airport. It would be a way of honoring Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life, her connection to her home state and the millions of people she inspired throughout her career.
The final decision is still ahead, but one thing is already clear: Tennessee wants Dolly Parton’s legacy to remain a visible part of the state for generations to come.