# Nashville's airport is about to become Dolly's

> Six board members voted yes, and they did it a week before they had to.
- Title: Nashville's airport is about to become Dolly's · Rolling Stone
- Summary: Six board members voted yes, and they did it a week before they had to. The unanimous vote is only step one: the actual new name and timeline are still being…
- Keywords: dolly parton, nashville, tennessee, airport, tribute, Nashville's, become, Dolly's, Rolling Stone
- Source: Rolling Stone — https://rollingstone.com/music/music-country/dolly-parton-nashville-airport-rename-unanimous-vote-1235625362
- Author: Larisha Paul
- Published: 2026-09-11T18:24:29+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dolly parton, nashville, tennessee, airport, tribute
## All six voted yes
Every member of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority board voted to rename Nashville International Airport after Dolly Parton. No dissent.
## The name isn't set yet
The authority says it is still working out exactly how Parton's name will appear, with firmer plans expected over the coming months.

> While a final name has not yet been determined, we are working closely with the appropriate parties
## Tennessee moved first
The state announced its intention to rename the airport after Parton died in late August. The airport board's vote follows that lead.
## The governor's case
Bill Lee framed the airport as the door Tennessee opens to the world, and said the state's favorite daughter belongs on it.

> 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
## A week ahead of schedule
The proposal wasn't due to be heard until Sept. 17. The board took it up and settled it sooner than anyone expected.
## Why an airport fits
Airport CEO Doug Kreulen tied the choice to what Parton stood for: that where you come from or what you earn should not decide how you're treated.

> She understood that dignity, kindness and opportunity should never be defined by where you come from
## Key takeaway

The unanimous vote is only step one: the actual new name and timeline are still being worked out.