Waymo’s Robotaxis Now Serving San Francisco International Airport
After years of negotiations and preparatory efforts, Waymo, the autonomous vehicle subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has commenced its robotaxi services to and from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). This development marks a significant milestone in the company’s expansion within the Bay Area’s transportation network.
Service Details and Initial Rollout
Initially, Waymo’s airport service will be available to a select group of riders, with plans to extend access to the broader public in the coming months. Passengers utilizing this service will be picked up and dropped off at the SFO Rental Car Center, conveniently accessible via the airport’s AirTrain system. This strategic location aims to streamline the integration of autonomous vehicles into the airport’s existing infrastructure.
Strategic Importance of Airport Access
Integrating airport routes into Waymo’s service area is a pivotal component of the company’s growth strategy. Airports serve as high-traffic hubs, and establishing a presence at SFO enhances Waymo’s ability to cater to a larger customer base. Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, Serving rides to and from San Francisco International Airport delivers one of the most requested features for our riders and further deepens our relationship with the city.
Expansion and Operational Milestones
Over the past year, Waymo has accelerated its expansion efforts, launching services in new cities, increasing its fleet size, and incorporating freeway routes into its operations. The company’s robotaxis now serve a substantial portion of the San Francisco Bay Area, extending into Silicon Valley and providing access to San Jose Mineta International Airport. Additionally, Waymo operates in parts of Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Miami, and Phoenix, where it offers curbside service at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Regulatory Journey and Challenges
Waymo’s journey to operating at SFO has been marked by regulatory challenges and negotiations. In 2023, the company faced setbacks when it failed to secure a permit to map the airport—a crucial step toward launching its services there. However, persistent efforts led to renewed negotiations with city and airport authorities, culminating in a permit granted in March 2025. This permit allowed Waymo to map SFO, albeit with certain data-sharing requirements.
Safety Concerns and Investigations
The launch at SFO comes amid scrutiny over safety incidents involving Waymo’s autonomous vehicles. Notably, the company reported an incident where one of its robotaxis struck a child near an elementary school in Santa Monica. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating this January 23 incident, in which the child sustained minor injuries. Additionally, Waymo is under investigation by both the NHTSA and the National Transportation Safety Board regarding the behavior of its robotaxis around school buses.
Future Prospects and Industry Implications
Despite these challenges, Waymo’s successful integration into SFO’s transportation ecosystem signifies a substantial advancement in the adoption of autonomous vehicle technology in major urban centers. The company’s ability to navigate regulatory landscapes and address safety concerns will be critical as it continues to expand its services and influence the future of urban mobility.
