Nashville Airport Renaming Plan Follows

Nashville International Airport has announced plans to rename itself in honor of the late country music star Dolly Parton. The proposal was unveiled on Friday, August 30, in partnership with Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, just days after Parton's death on August 25.

Governor Lee stated it was fitting for the airport to bear the name of the state's "favorite daughter." The final decision, however, does not rest with the airport or the state government. According to the source report from boardingarea.com, any renaming will require the blessing of Dolly Parton's family.

Governor Lee confirmed he has already held talks with her family. They were reportedly "touched by the idea and open to continuing the conversation." The source notes that as an astute businesswoman, Parton would likely have wanted any naming deal to involve a formal licensing agreement. A precedent exists: Palm Beach International Airport entered such a deal before being renamed President Donald J. Trump International Airport.

The BNA Code and a Potential Change

The airport is currently marketed using its IATA-assigned three-letter code, BNA. This code does not reference Nashville. It originates from the airport's original name, Berry Field, which honored Colonel Harry S. Berry, a Tennessee lawmaker instrumental in its construction.

If the airport is renamed, there is a push to officially change its IATA code. The proposed new designator is DPI, a code currently unused by the International Air Transportation Association.

Grassroots Campaign Gains Momentum

An online petition to rename the airport was started nearly two years ago by Lydia Popovich on Change.org. It initially gathered around 40,000 signatures in its first year. Following Parton's death, support surged, and the petition now has over 162,000 signatures.

Popovich argued for the change, citing Parton's philanthropic work, including her Imagination Library program which has gifted over 100 million books to children since 1995. She wrote that the airport should carry the name of such a remarkable woman.

Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, commented on the proposal. "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," he said. He added that Parton's legacy reminds Nashville of its ability to welcome everyone.

The airport's board is scheduled to meet on September 17 to formally discuss the renaming plans. The future name being considered is Nashville Dolly Parton International Airport.