- Nashville International Airport to be renamed after Dolly Parton
- Proposal to be addressed at MNAA meeting on 17 September
- Dolly’s team expressed appreciation and openness to idea
- Aer Lingus fly direct from Ireland
- Airport generated $13.8bn economic impact in 2024
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Nashville International Airport have announced their intent to name BNA in honour of Dolly Parton, creating a lasting tribute to her legacy and the generations of people she inspired across Tennessee and around the world. Gov. Lee has spoken with Dolly’s team about the proposal this week, with her team expressing their appreciation for the extraordinary outpouring of support to honour Dolly and saying they are touched by the idea and open to continuing the conversation. The Metro Nashville Airport Authority’s current Naming Policy and Gov. Lee’s proposal to rename the airport will be addressed at MNAA’s meeting on Thursday, 17 September.
Born in Sevier County, Dolly Parton has become a global icon whose music, creativity and voice have reflected the heart and spirit of Tennessee. Widely regarded as one of the most influential and beloved artists in American music history, Dolly’s impact has extended far beyond the stage through her lifelong commitment to service and philanthropy. Through the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library, she has provided hundreds of millions of free books to children worldwide, promoting literacy and empowering children to reach their full potential.
The airport serves as the front door to Music City, and the renaming reflects the values Dolly shared with Tennessee and the world. Aer Lingus from Dublin and British Airways from Heathrow fly directly into Nashville, meaning British and Irish passengers will soon be greeted by Dolly Parton when they land. The airport has generated $13.8bn in total economic impact in 2024, supported 80,000 jobs and contributed to $2.1bn in federal, state and local taxes, receiving no local tax dollars.
Gov. Bill Lee, Tennessee Governor, shared: “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. 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.”
Doug Kreulen, President and CEO of Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, shared: “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. Dolly’s remarkable legacy reminds us that what makes Nashville special is our ability to welcome people from every walk of life. She understood that dignity, kindness and opportunity should never be defined by where you come from or your socioeconomic status. At BNA, we share that commitment.”
