A campaign to rename Nashville’s airport after country music legend Dolly Parton has gained traction, with support from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and local officials. The proposal would make Dolly Parton International Airport a reality, pending a planning meeting scheduled for September 17th. If approved, Parton would become only the second American musician to have an airport named after them, following Louis Armstrong in New Orleans, and the first woman to receive this honor.
The irony of the tribute is particularly fitting given Parton’s well-documented aversion to air travel. The iconic performer has been vocal about her fear of flying, famously stating she preferred not to go “higher up than pulling corn.” Despite her global touring career, Parton avoided private jets entirely, instead relying on her tour bus for most travel. She only boarded flights when facing time constraints or for special occasions, such as a surprise performance at the 2019 Newport Folk Festival.
Parton’s response to the airport naming proposal reflected her characteristic humility and humor. When interviewed about the effort, she dismissed it as a joke, suggesting she didn’t believe the initiative was serious. However, observers note that the entertainment legend, who previously declined a statue at the state Capitol, has historically favored tributes that generate funds for her charitable work rather than purely symbolic gestures.
Should the airport rename proceed, supporters hope the honor will be paired with initiatives benefiting Parton’s foundation and Imagination Library, her literacy program. Such a combination would align with Parton’s known preference for meaningful charitable impact alongside recognition.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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