The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority voted 6-0 on the 11th September 2026 to begin the process of modifying the airport’s name. The decision follows growing public and political support for a permanent tribute to the Tennessee-born singer and philanthropist, who died on the 25th August 2026 at the age of 80.

However, passengers should not expect an immediate change. The airport authority has stressed that the vote represents only the first stage of what is likely to be a lengthy process.

Despite several reports suggesting that the airport will become Dolly Parton International Airport, the final name has not officially been confirmed.

The airport authority said it is working with the appropriate parties to determine how Parton’s name and legacy should be incorporated. More detailed plans are expected to be announced during the coming months.

Nashville’s Metropolitan Council previously passed a resolution requesting that the airport adopt the name Dolly Parton International Airport. The proposal also called for an exception to an existing airport policy which required an individual to have been deceased for at least two years before receiving such an honour.

The process could also require approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration before the new name can be formally introduced.

Nashville International Airport is expected to retain its existing BNA airport code, even after the new name is introduced.

The code dates back to the airport’s former name, Berry Field Nashville, and is already widely recognised by airlines, passengers and booking systems around the world.

Keeping BNA would also avoid the disruption associated with changing an established airport code across airline schedules, baggage systems, tickets and airport infrastructure.

Nashville International Airport is the principal airport serving Nashville and the surrounding Middle Tennessee region. It is one of the fastest-growing airports in the United States and recorded an estimated economic impact of $13.8 billion in 2024.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee said the airport was a fitting place to commemorate Parton because it acts as the state’s gateway to the world.

Parton was born in Sevier County, Tennessee, and became one of the most recognisable figures in American music. Her influence also extended far beyond entertainment through initiatives including the Dollywood Foundation and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Founded in 1995, the Imagination Library provides free books to young children and now operates in several countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and the Republic of Ireland.

Public support for the airport renaming grew significantly following Parton’s death, with a petition attracting more than 175,000 signatures.

No implementation date has been announced, and the airport authority has warned that modifying the name will be a multifaceted process.

A full rebrand could involve changes to signage, official documents, websites, merchandise and other facilities across the airport’s 4,500-acre site. The cost has not been confirmed, although some estimates suggest that the project could reach several million dollars.

For now, passengers should continue to search and book flights using Nashville International Airport and the BNA airport code.

What a fitting tribute, that is all!