Overview
- The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority board voted unanimously, 6-0, on Sept. 11 to modify its naming policy and start the formal process to rename Nashville International Airport in Parton’s honor.
- The board removed a two‑year posthumous waiting requirement so the CEO can immediately work with the Parton family and the Dollywood Foundation on naming and implementation decisions.
- Airport CEO Doug Kreulen reported a ‘‘very productive’’ meeting with the Parton family on Sept. 9 and said they will be included in choosing the final name and guiding the tribute.
- Officials say renaming will require a major overhaul of signs, monuments, contracts, uniforms and retail and could cost millions while the airport’s three‑letter code, BNA, would remain unchanged.
- Next steps include selecting a final name, securing approvals from local authorities and federal agencies, agreeing on who will fund the rebranding, and completing work that officials expect to take months to about a year.