Waymo Launches at SFO Ahead of Super Bowl
Waymo has announced the launch of its services at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), starting on Thursday. This initiative will initially provide rides to a select number of users, with access expanding in the coming months. The initial service area will be limited to the SFO Rental Car Center. Passengers can then use the AirTrain to reach the airport terminals.
Waymo Expands Operations at SFO
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, aims to broaden its impact at the airport by adding more routes directly to terminals, although a specific timeline for this expansion has yet to be disclosed. In September, Waymo received the necessary permit to operate at SFO, following its launch on Bay Area freeways in November.
Service Coverage
The company currently runs a unified service across more than 260 square miles of the Bay Area, demonstrating its extensive operational capabilities.
- Launch Date: Thursday
- Initial Pickup Location: SFO Rental Car Center
- Expansion Plans: Additional airport routes to terminals
- Operational Area: 260+ square miles in the Bay Area
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie expressed support for the initiative, noting that it offers a “safe, reliable, and convenient” transportation option. He emphasized the service’s role in enhancing the city’s economic recovery and providing an innovative transport solution for residents and visitors alike.
Significance of the Launch
SFO stands out as the largest and busiest airport in the Bay Area and is noteworthy for being the third international airport in the United States to offer a commercial robotaxi service. This development follows Waymo’s earlier launches at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport in 2024 and San Jose Mineta International Airport last year.
Meeting Growing Demand
Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana highlighted the significance of the SFO operations, stating that they fulfill a high demand feature for riders while strengthening the company’s ties with the city of San Francisco. With major events like Super Bowl LX and the FIFA World Cup planned for this year, the demand for reliable, fully autonomous rides is expected to increase significantly.
