Waymo just broke through a major regulatory barrier in California's autonomous vehicle market. The Alphabet subsidiary received clearance to launch robotaxi service at San Jose Mineta International Airport—its first airport destination in the Golden State after years of regulatory pushback. Commercial rides begin by year-end, marking a pivotal expansion in the company's nationwide airport strategy.
Waymo just scored a regulatory victory that's been years in the making. The Alphabet-owned autonomous vehicle company announced Thursday it received approval to launch robotaxi service at San Jose Mineta International Airport, breaking through California's historically cautious approach to airport-based autonomous operations.
The development represents a significant milestone for the company's California expansion strategy. Testing will begin in the coming months, with commercial passenger service launching by the end of 2025. This marks Waymo's first airport destination in its home state after facing regulatory headwinds at other major California hubs.
The approval comes after a lengthy regulatory dance with California aviation authorities. Waymo was rebuffed by San Francisco International Airport officials back in 2023, highlighting the complex regulatory landscape facing autonomous vehicle operators at major transportation hubs. However, the company did secure a mapping permit for SFO earlier this year, suggesting momentum toward eventual service there.
The San Jose clearance builds on Waymo's proven airport track record in Arizona. The company has been operating curbside robotaxi service at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport since late 2023, expanding to 24/7 operations by August 2024. According to company data, Phoenix airport has become the most popular destination in Waymo's Arizona network, generating "hundreds of thousands" of trips.
The timing aligns with Waymo's aggressive nationwide expansion push. The company now operates more than 2,000 robotaxis across its fleet, with approximately 800 vehicles serving the Bay Area, 500 in Los Angeles, 400 in Phoenix, 100 in Austin, and dozens in Atlanta. Earlier this week, Waymo announced plans to expand into Denver and Seattle, while also preparing launches in Dallas, Miami, and Washington, D.C.
