Nashville airport to be renamed after Dolly Parton

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority has unanimously approved the renaming of Nashville International Airport in honor of country music icon Dolly Parton, following her passing on August 25 at the age of 80. The airport's board voted without dissent on Friday to accept the decision, which comes after careful consideration of the implications for the airport's branding and marketing materials, as well as the project's cost and funding.

While airport officials have not disclosed the estimated expense, a 2025 analysis of a previously rejected proposal to rename the airport Trump International Airport suggested a price tag of approximately $10.3 million. Following the approval, the airport authority will collaborate with the Dollywood Foundation to devise a new name and integrate the two entities.

Dolly Parton's influence transcended music, as recognized by tributes from prominent figures such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Oprah Winfrey. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee had previously proposed renaming the airport after Parton, stating, "Dolly Parton's extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state. From her rural mountain home in East Tennessee to global stages, Dolly carried the Volunteer Spirit with her."

Parton, hailing from Sevier County, Tennessee, achieved fame through hits like "Jolene" and "9 to 5" and established the Dollywood theme park in her home state.