A heartfelt movement is sweeping through Nashville as fans rally to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the late Dolly Parton. Following the beloved country star’s passing at the age of 80, a year-old petition has surged past 100,000 signatures, with support pouring in from fellow artists like Sheryl Crow.
The Change.org petition, titled “Rename Nashville International Airport to Dolly Parton International Airport,” saw an explosive increase of over 50,000 signatures within just 24 hours after Parton’s family announced her death from a brief illness on Tuesday. An update on the petition poignantly stated, “On August 25, the world lost an angel,” capturing the collective grief of fans mourning the loss of a true icon.
Originally launched in January 2025, the petition had been slowly gaining traction, hovering around 53,000 signatures prior to Parton’s passing. However, the news of her death ignited a wave of support, with signatures flooding in at an astonishing rate.
Sheryl Crow, a fellow country music star, voiced her enthusiasm for the initiative during an Instagram livestream with Katie Couric, saying, “People are talking about trying to get the Nashville airport changed to the Dolly Parton International Airport. I’m like, ‘Yes! I think we should.’”
Tennessee state Representative Todd Warner also expressed his commitment to the cause. In a response on the petition, he pledged to introduce legislation to make the name change a reality. Warner previously attempted to rename the airport “Trump International Airport” in early 2025, but that proposal did not gain enough support.
Now, he’s ready to back Parton’s legacy, acknowledging the numerous requests he has received from constituents.
Supporters of the petition have shared their sentiments, emphasizing how Parton embodies the spirit of Tennessee and its music. One signer remarked, “Dolly Parton represents the heart of Tennessee and the heart of its music. Naming Nashville International Airport in her honor would welcome visitors from around the world with a name that immediately says welcome!
Know we love ya!”
Another fan added, “One of the sweetest and dearest singers, and not only that, a role model to so many. Undeniably an icon, and after all that she has given us, the least we can do is name something in her honor.”
As fans continue to rally behind this heartfelt tribute, the question remains: will Nashville International Airport officially become Dolly Parton International Airport?
