Full Breakdown
Dolly Parton Airport Renaming Proposal Moves Forward in Tennessee
8/29/2026, 8:02:22 PM
Core Event
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) announced on August 28 2026 that they intend to rename Nashville International Airport (BNA) in honor of the late country-music icon Dolly Parton, who died on August 25 2026 after a brief battle with cancer. The proposal will be considered at the MNAA board meeting scheduled for September 17.
Background & Context
The effort began with a Change.org petition launched in January 2025 by fans Lydia Popovich and Dan Dion. After Parton’s death, signatures rose to more than 150,000 by late August 2026. The campaign resurfaced as an alternative to a prior proposal to rename the airport after former President Donald Trump.
Parton, born January 19 1946 in Pittman Center, Tennessee, built a global music, acting, and philanthropic career. Her Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library have distributed hundreds of millions of free books to children worldwide.
Data & Statistics
- Petition signatures: > 150,000 (multiple sources)
- Estimated rebranding cost: $10 million (airport officials) and $10.34 million (2025 MNAA analysis)
- Economic impact of BNA (2024): $13.8 billion total, 80,000 jobs, $2.1 billion in taxes (InterVISTAS Consulting)
- Current three-letter code BNA derives from “Berry Field Nashville Airport,” named for Col. Harry S. Berry.
Official Statements & Responses
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell praised the proposal as a “love letter to Dolly” and said the city will ensure any tribute aligns with the wishes of Parton’s family and foundation. Tennessee Tourism Commissioner Mark Ezell noted Parton’s strong association with the state’s tourism brand.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Cost estimates differ: $10 million for signage, branding and legal updates versus $10.34 million in a 2025 MNAA analysis; neither includes potential FAA fees.
- Policy normally precludes a rename until 2028, but Lee’s office suggests an exception could be considered. No official decision on a waiver has been announced.
- Airport code change: BNA’s code is not tied to the city name. Some commentators have floated a change to “DNA,” but that code is already assigned to Doña Ana County International Airport in New Mexico. No formal request has been made.
What’s Next
The MNAA board will discuss the naming policy and Lee’s proposal at its September 17 meeting. A final decision requires board approval, a possible policy amendment, and Federal Aviation Administration endorsement. State Rep. Todd Warner plans to introduce supporting legislation in the next session, and Metro Councilmember Russ Bradford will sponsor a resolution urging the board to act.
Verbatim Quotes
- “BNA® is the front door to Music City, and with that comes a responsibility to reflect the very best of who we are as a community,” — Doug Kreulen, MNAA president
- “Dolly’s remarkable legacy reminds us that what makes Nashville special is our ability to welcome people from every walk of life,” — Doug Kreulen, MNNA president
- “Yes I will definitely introduce legislation to rename the BNA airport Dolly Parton International Airport! Thanks, TW,” — Rep. Todd Warner
- “I’m proud to sponsor a resolution asking the Metro Nashville Airport Authority to consider renaming BNA to Dolly Parton International Airport,” — Russ Bradford
