Petition to rename Nashville airport in honour of Dolly Parton gains traction

A petition calling for Nashville International Airport to be renamed in honour of country superstar Dolly Parton has gained over 133,000 signatures online after her death. The Change.org petition, created by Nashville-based comedian Lydia Popovich in January 2025, saw a surge in support following Parton's passing on Tuesday at the age of 80 after battling cancer.

The petition's description highlighted Parton's impact on Tennessee and the world, stating that she has "dispersed the magic" in the form of butterflies, wildflowers, and children reading aloud their first book. Tennessee State Senator Todd Warner has pledged to introduce legislation to rename the airport, which currently faces challenges such as estimated taxpayer costs and previously being voted down by the Naming and Designating Committee.

Nashville metro council member Russ Bradford has also introduced a resolution asking the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority to consider renaming the airport to Dolly Parton International Airport, emphasizing Parton's philanthropic work and hometown pride. The airport authority board member Bobby Joslin mentioned a 2010 policy prohibiting naming the airport after someone until two years after their death, provided they have made a significant impact on aviation in Tennessee.

The Nashville International Airport illuminated its parking garages in pink following Parton's death to honor her and her lasting impact on the city and the world.