Waymo Approved to Start Testing Autonomous Vehicles at San Francisco International Airport
Waymo approved to start testing autonomous vehicles at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), marking a huge milestone for the self-driving car pioneer. This decision positions SFO as a key hub in the expansion of autonomous ride-hailing services across major U.S. airports.
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SFO Grants Waymo a Pilot Testing Permit
The San Francisco mayor’s office confirmed that SFO and Waymo signed a Testing and Operations Pilot Permit after years of negotiations. This approval follows Waymo’s recent clearance to test at San Jose Mineta International Airport, strengthening the company’s foothold in the Bay Area.
With Tesla also eyeing ride-hail services at local airports, competition in the autonomous vehicle market is heating up. Waymo’s head start at SFO could give it a strategic advantage.
Why San Francisco International Airport Matters to Waymo
While SFO isn’t the first airport to work with Waymo — Phoenix Sky Harbor has been running Waymo services since 2023 — it’s one of the most important. Located near Silicon Valley, SFO serves millions of travelers every year, making it a prime location for testing and eventual commercial rollout.
For years, Waymo had its sights set on SFO, but airport authorities initially rejected its proposals back in 2023. The tide has now turned, opening the door for innovation in airport ground transportation.
A Step Toward Commercial Service
Securing this permit is more than just a testing opportunity — it’s a signal that commercial autonomous ride-hailing at airports is coming sooner than expected. Passengers traveling to and from SFO could one day request a fully driverless Waymo vehicle instead of a traditional ride-share.
Waymo’s progress also comes at a time when regulators and the public are paying close attention to the safety and reliability of self-driving technology. Each step forward at airports like SFO helps build trust in the broader rollout of autonomous transport.
With approval to test at both San Francisco International Airport and San Jose Mineta International Airport, Waymo is positioning itself as a leader in airport mobility solutions. As the company expands, travelers may soon experience seamless, driverless rides that connect air travel with city commutes.
For SFO, the move aligns with its broader push toward innovation, sustainability, and future-ready transport options.
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