Gov. Lee announces intent to name Nashville International Airport in honor of Dolly Parton

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – On Friday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Nashville International Airport® announced the intent to name BNA in honor of Dolly Parton.

According to a release by the governor’s office, Lee spoke with Parton’s team about the proposal earlier this week.

Officials say her team “expressed their appreciation for the extraordinary outpouring of support to honor Dolly and said they are touched by the idea and are open to continuing the conversation.”

The governor’s office stated:

“In keeping with the way Dolly lived her life, her team believes she still has a special way of bringing people together for good, and they hope this tribute can be another example of that enduring legacy.”

Born in Sevier County, Tennessee, Parton became a global star through her music, creativity and voice. According to Lee’s office, Parton is widely regarded as “one of the most influential and beloved artists in American history.” Parton impacted people through philanthropy, including the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library, which provided millions of free books to children.

“Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state,” Lee said. “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.”

Additional details on this development have not yet been released. News 40 will provide further updates as they become available.