Waymo Approved for Autonomous Vehicle Testing at SFO

Waymo Receives Permit for Autonomous Vehicle Testing at San Francisco International Airport

Waymo has received approval to begin testing its self-driving vehicles at San Francisco International Airport, preceding the anticipated launch of a commercial ride-hailing service.

Agreement with SFO

The office of San Francisco’s mayor announced on Tuesday the signing of a “Testing and Operations Pilot Permit” between SFO and Waymo. This agreement follows several years of discussions. The deal with SFO follows closely on the heels of Waymo’s clearance to initiate testing at San Jose Mineta International Airport.

Expanding Airport Operations

SFO isn't the first airport to host Waymo’s autonomous vehicle operations; the company has been running a service at Phoenix’s Sky Harbor airport since 2023. However, SFO has long been a key target for Waymo, given its status as the largest airport serving the Silicon Valley region.

Initial attempts by Waymo to gain access in 2023 were unsuccessful. However, this year, the company was granted permission to map the airport, signaling a positive shift in the relationship.

Phased Implementation

The new permit outlines a three-phase approach for Waymo. Phase one involves testing the autonomous vehicles (AVs) in self-driving mode with a trained specialist present. Phase two will focus on testing passenger service with Waymo employees and airport personnel.

The final phase will enable Waymo to offer paid rides to the public.

Service Details and Future Plans

Upon entering the third phase, Waymo plans to provide pick-up and drop-off services at the airport’s “Kiss & Fly” area. Access to the terminals from this location requires a ride on the AirTrain. The company also expressed intentions to investigate additional locations within the airport for future service expansion.

Timeline and Commercial Operations

According to Waymo spokesperson Chris Bonelli, testing will commence “very soon.” However, a specific timeline for the subsequent phases remains undefined. The offering of paid rides will operate on a month-to-month basis as Waymo collaborates with SFO to secure a long-term commercial operations permit.

Waymo’s Continued Growth

Providing transportation to and from SFO represents the latest achievement for Waymo this year. The company has been expanding into new cities and forging partnerships, including one with Uber, with further expansion planned for 2026. Waymo is also increasing its service area within Silicon Valley, making SFO access increasingly likely.

This article has been updated to include recent timing information provided by Waymo.

Key Highlights

• Waymo has secured a permit for autonomous vehicle testing at SFO.
• Testing will occur in three phases: specialist-supervised, employee/staff passenger service, and paid public rides.
• The initial service area will be the “Kiss & Fly” area, requiring AirTrain access to terminals.
• This expansion builds on Waymo’s existing operations at Phoenix Sky Harbor and San Jose airports.