Nashville Airport Authority Votes to Begin Renaming Process for Dolly Parton Honor
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority has voted to start the process of renaming Nashville International Airport in honor of Dolly Parton.

Raleigh Durham, NC, September 11, 2026 — The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) has initiated the formal process to consider renaming Nashville International Airport (BNA) in tribute to the iconic entertainer Dolly Parton. The decision was made during a recent vote by the authority’s board.
The vote signifies the first step in what is expected to be a comprehensive evaluation and public discussion regarding the potential name change for the major air travel hub serving Middle Tennessee. Details regarding the specific timeline for this process, the criteria for the renaming, and any public engagement phases were not immediately available.
Nashville International Airport, a key gateway to the region, is named for the city it serves. The move to explore renaming it in honor of Parton, a celebrated singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist with deep ties to the state of Tennessee and a significant cultural impact, marks a notable development in the airport’s history.
The authority’s decision means that the proposal will now move through its established procedures, which could involve further committee reviews, public hearings, and ultimately, a final vote on the renaming. Information concerning the contractor tasked with managing this process, the exact date of the vote, or any projected completion dates for the renaming initiative was not provided.
Further announcements are anticipated as the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority progresses through the stages of this potential renaming effort. The scope of the project and any associated costs or logistical considerations remain to be detailed by the authority.
Story summarized from the original created by web.operations@abc11mail.com(WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham) on abc11.com, see more information here.
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