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San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) is set to become the first commercial airport in California to feature Waymo, the world’s leading fully autonomous ride-hailing company. Waymo has officially received authorization to operate on airport premises, marking a significant step in its planned deployment in San José. The rollout will occur in phases, starting with fully autonomous testing for Waymo employees before a commercial launch for the public is expected later this year.
Key Highlights
- Waymo has received a permit to begin commercial operations at San José Mineta International Airport.
- SJC is expected to be the first commercial airport in California and the second in the world to welcome Waymo.
- The service will begin with a testing phase for Waymo employees, with public ride availability anticipated later this year.
- Travelers will be able to hail a Waymo vehicle using the company’s app for pickup at SJC’s Ground Transportation Centers.
A New Era of Airport Transportation
This development positions SJC as a pioneer in integrating autonomous vehicle technology into the travel experience. Once the service is commercially launched, passengers arriving at the official Airport of Silicon Valley can easily hail a Waymo autonomous vehicle through the Waymo app. The vehicle will then meet the passenger at one of SJC’s two Ground Transportation Centers, located in either Terminal A or B, for a seamless dispatch to their chosen destination within the San Francisco Bay Area service area.
The introduction of Waymo’s innovative service further enhances the convenience that travelers have come to expect from the Bay Area’s easiest and most dependable airport.
A Hub for Innovation
Local leaders have expressed excitement about the partnership, viewing it as a reflection of the region’s identity as a global innovation hub. San José Mayor Matt Mahan noted that Waymo’s arrival is perfectly timed, stating that the company embodies the region’s “spirit of innovation.” He highlighted Waymo as an ideal transportation mode for visitors, especially with San José set to be at the epicenter of major sporting events in 2026.
San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire added that Waymo will provide passengers with a “new innovative option” for travel to and from SJC, aligning with the dependability and convenience the airport is known for.
Officials at SJC believe the airport’s design and infrastructure are well-suited for Waymo’s technology. Mookie Patel, Director of Aviation at San José Mineta International Airport, stated that the airport is pleased that Waymo chose SJC as only the second major airport in the world to offer its services. Annabel Chang, Waymo’s Head of U.S. State and Local Public Policy, said the company looks forward to offering fully autonomous rides at SJC terminals, reinforcing its commitment to its Silicon Valley origins and helping “keep innovation on the move.”
About San José Mineta International Airport (SJC)
Fueled by a culture of innovation, San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) is known for its medium size, simple layout, and dependable service. Located just minutes from downtown San José, the airport is a self-supporting enterprise owned and operated by the City of San José. In 2024, SJC welcomed nearly 12 million passengers and was rated California’s top-performing airport for on-time departures. The airport offers nonstop service to more than 40 destinations and serves the business aviation needs of Silicon Valley.
For more information, visit flysanjose.com.
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