Yeah, I’m SO here for this.
Following yesterday’s devastating news that legendary country singer Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80, a growing push to rename Nashville International Airport (BNA) in honor of the icon may soon make its way from an online plea to the Tennessee State Capitol.
Responding directly to a 2025 petition that has gained significant momentum within the last 24 hours, State Rep. Todd Warner says he plans to introduce legislation that would officially rename Nashville International Airport as Dolly Parton International Airport.
“Yes I will definitely introduce legislation to rename the BNA airport Dolly Parton International Airport! Thanks, TW.”
Warner, who represents Tennessee House District 92, is one of several state officials listed as decision makers on the petition. As of this very moment, Warner is the only lawmaker to publicly respond through the petition.
The campaign was originally launched by Lydia Popovich and Dan Dion in January 2025, calling for the Music City airport to bear the name of one of Tennessee’s most beloved figures: “As proud citizens of Tennessee, we are motivated by our deep-rooted admiration for the national treasure and Tennessee legend, Dolly Parton.”
Organizers point not only to Parton’s legendary music career, but also to her decades of philanthropy and impact throughout Tennessee and beyond. The petition has seen a massive resurgence in support following Parton’s death, surpassing 85,000 verified signatures, with more than 23,000 signatures added today alone.
Warner’s involvement in the effort comes with an interesting bit of history, to say the least… as the Republican lawmaker previously sponsored legislation to rename the same airport after President Trump. The proposal eventually failed in the Tennessee House Transportation Committee by a 12-5 vote in March of last year.
Parton herself even addressed the original campaign shortly after it began in 2025. she joked about the possibility of travelers one day “departin’” from Parton. While Warner’s response does not mean BNA will officially become Dolly Parton International Airport, it represents a major step forward for what began as a fan-led petition.
And with almost 100,000 people now backing the effort, the possibility of one day flying in and out of Dolly Parton International Airport surprisingly doesn’t feel out of reach.
You can sign the petition here.
