Tennessee governor plans to name Nashville airport after Dolly Parton
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced plans to rename the Nashville International Airport in honor of the late country music icon Dolly Parton. The proposal follows a massive public petition and requires approval from the airport authority and the FAA.
Why it matters
This move serves as a significant cultural tribute to a globally recognized figure whose legacy is deeply tied to the state's identity.
Image source, Getty Images By Madeline Halpert Published 28 August 2026 Updated 29 August 2026 00:06 BST Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced plans to name Nashville International Airport after Dolly Parton, following the 80-year-old country star's death from cancer this week.
The news comes after legions of fans signed an online petition to rename the airport after Parton, who was born in rural Tennessee and later moved to Nashville.
In a statement, Lee said he had spoken to Parton's team, who "expressed their appreciation for the extraordinary outpouring of support to honor Dolly".
"Dolly Parton's extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state," Lee said.
Figure caption, Watch: Culture correspondent Noor Nanji explores how the country legend's signature style helped her take over the world
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