Nashville Airport Proposal to Honor Dolly Parton

Tennessee’s governor has proposed renaming Nashville International Airport in memory of Dolly Parton, following the singer’s recent death. Governor Bill Lee announced the proposal shortly after Parton died of cancer at age 80.

In his statement, Lee emphasized Parton’s impact on Tennessee and her global legacy. He remarked, “At a place where Tennessee welcomes the world, it is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the name of our state’s favorite daughter and greet travelers with the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness.” Discussions about the name change have already taken place with representatives for Parton.

Support for this change is substantial. Over 157,000 Parton fans have signed an online petition advocating for the airport to be renamed. The petition, which has been circulating for over a year, saw tens of thousands of new signatures since Parton’s passing. Among the supporters are Tennessee state Rep. Todd Warner and singer Sheryl Crow.

Nashville International Airport currently celebrates its country music heritage. It houses exhibits like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and an outpost of the Grand Ole Opry.

Renaming airports after famous individuals is a common practice. Examples include President Donald J. Trump International Airport in Florida, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, and John Wayne Airport in California.

Dolly Parton’s journey from poverty in the Great Smoky Mountains to international stardom is noteworthy. She has written songs like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” and appeared in films such as “9 to 5” and “Steel Magnolias.” However, current airport naming policy requires that honorees be deceased for at least two years. The Metro Nashville Airport Authority plans to review this policy on September 17.

In addition to the airport proposal, Tennessee state Sen. Jessie Seal has introduced legislation to designate September 25 as “9 to 5” Day, honoring one of Parton’s most famous songs.