Nashville Airport to be renamed after Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton is to have Nashville Airport renamed in her honour.
Nashville Airport is set to be renamed after Dolly Parton.
The country music icon passed away in August, aged 80, and the airport in her home state of Tennessee is now set to be named after her.
A statement reads: "The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority voted unanimously, 6-0, to begin the process of modifying the airport’s name in honour of Dolly Parton.
"While a final name has not yet been determined, we are working closely with the appropriate parties to thoughtfully determine how Dolly Parton’s name and legacy will be incorporated.
"This vote represents the first step in a multifaceted process. In the coming months, we anticipate having more definitive plans to share regarding the next steps and implementation.
"We are grateful for the tremendous support and enthusiasm from our community and Dolly’s fans around the world. We look forward to sharing additional details as plans are finalised."
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee previously announced the intention to rename the airport in Dolly's memory.
The politician said in a statement at the time: "Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state.
"From her rural mountain home in East Tennessee to global stages, Dolly carried the volunteer spirit with her.
"At a place where Tennessee welcomes the world, it is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the name of our state’s favourite daughter and greet travellers with the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness."
Doug Kreulen, the president and CEO of Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, believes Dolly's "remarkable legacy" needs to be recognised.
He said: "Nashville International Airport is the front door to Music City, and with that comes a responsibility to reflect the very best of who we are as a community.
"Dolly’s remarkable legacy reminds us that what makes Nashville special is our ability to welcome people from every walk of life.
"She understood that dignity, kindness and opportunity should never be defined by where you come from or your socioeconomic status. At Nashville International Airport, we share that commitment.
"Whether you are boarding a private aircraft or taking your first flight, you deserve to be welcomed, respected and served with the same level of care. That spirit is what defines Nashville International Airport and it is a fitting reflection of the values Dolly shared with Tennessee and the world."
