Self-driving cars have become a normal sight in San Francisco, with Waymos regularly spotted on the streets. Many San Franciscans have adopted the new technology, hailing the autonomous vehicles the same way they would a Lyft or Uber.
While there are many mixed opinions about robotaxis, they continue to expand, and Waymo has recently secured a temporary permit allowing them to map the airport roads at SFO. The news came from Mayor Daniel Lurie’s office on March 18, announcing the temporary access agreement would run for 30 days and would end on April 13, 2025.
“We’re proud of the tens of thousands of trips Waymo One provides each week to residents and visitors in San Francisco. This mapping permit is an important step toward bringing our service to the millions of people who travel to and from the city every year, many of whom have placed San Francisco International Airport at the top of their service expansion wish list,” said Nicole Gavel, head of business development and strategic partnerships at Waymo in a recent statement. “We’re pleased to play a part in showing the world that the future starts here in San Francisco.”
The permit allows for only two vehicles at a time and a human driver in the mapping vehicle. For now, there is no decision on whether the Waymos will be able to carry passengers to the airport. Waymo also recently announced plans to expand further in the U.S., notably in Washington, D.C.
SFO has recently been adding new restaurants, including a Perry’s in Terminal 1. Plus, iconic restaurant and bar Balboa will open a second full-service restaurant in the airport, although an opening date has not been released. The airport was recently named the best airport in North America, according to Business Traveler Magazine.