Waymo has received approval from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to conduct mapping operations under a temporary access agreement.
The decision, announced by Mayor Daniel Lurie, will allow the autonomous vehicle company to begin mapping airport roadways in a controlled environment.
The agreement permits Waymo to deploy up to two vehicles at a time for mapping purposes. A human driver will be required to remain in control of each vehicle throughout the process, and no passengers will be allowed. The permit is valid for 30 days from 14 March 2025, with the option for a 30-day extension at the airport’s discretion.
Nicole Gavel, head of business development and strategic partnerships at Waymo said: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. We’re pleased to play a part in showing the world that the future starts here in San Francisco.
This initiative follows a series of major events hosted by San Francisco, including the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, Lunar New Year Parade, and All-Star Weekend. Officials view the project as a step towards expanding transportation options to and from the airport, potentially enhancing accessibility for travellers.
Mayor Lurie said:This agreement is another example of how San Francisco is driving innovation while supporting our economic recovery. My administration is bringing everyone to the table to get things done and deliver real results for San Franciscans. By working to expand transportation options to and from SFO, we're continuing to make it easier for tourists and business travellers to experience our city, strengthen our economy, and welcome the world back to San Francisco.
The agreement includes the use of SFO’s geofencing system for vehicle tracking. While no decision has been made regarding Waymo’s future passenger services at the airport, officials indicate that data collected during this mapping phase will help inform potential next steps.
Airport Director Mike Nakornkhet said:The safety of our customers is our very highest priority, and this temporary mapping permit is an important first step in our comprehensive evaluation of this new transportation mode.
