A grassroots campaign urging Tennessee officials to rename Nashville International Airport (BNA) to Dolly Parton International Airport has surged past 100,000 signatures. Originally launched on Change.org by Tennessee residents Lydia Popovich and Dan Dion, the petition gained massive momentum as fans and fellow artists rallied together to honor the global icon’s immense cultural legacy and philanthropic contributions.
The organizers created the petition to celebrate Parton’s artistic achievements and her commitment to charitable causes, such as her Imagination Library, which has donated over 100 million books to children worldwide. Supporters highlight that no single figure unifies and represents the spirit of Tennessee quite like Parton.
Grassroots Support: The petition surged across social media under the catchy rally cry, “Departin’ with Parton!”
Celebrity Backing: Country music star Sheryl Crow publicly endorsed the movement, calling the name change a “no brainer.”
Legislative Interest: Tennessee State Representative Todd Warner indicated plans to introduce legislation supporting the proposal.
Renaming BNA would serve as a major tribute in Music City, commemorating a legend whose impact spans decades of music, business, and global humanitarian work. While airport authorities have yet to comment officially on the name change, public sentiment remains overwhelmingly supportive of giving travelers the chance to officially fly out of a gateway bearing her name.
