- Waymo has been granted a permit to operate its autonomous vehicles at San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC), making it the first commercial airport in California to offer such services.
- SJC is only the second major airport in the world to offer Waymo services, following Phoenix Sky Harbor.
- Fully autonomous testing with Waymo employees is set to begin this fall, with public commercial rides expected later in 2025.
- The permit highlights Silicon Valley’s innovative spirit, especially timely with San Jose hosting major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches and Super Bowl.
On September 4, 2025, Waymo announced that it had received permission to test its robotaxi services at the San Jose Mineta International airport, with public commercial rides expected later in 2025.
Waymo’s expansion to SJC builds on its proven safety record, with 92% fewer bodily injury claims and 88% fewer property damage claims compared to human drivers over 25 million miles. Travelers will soon be able to hail a Waymo robotaxi via the app for pickups at SJC’s Ground Transportation Centers in Terminals A and B.
“SJC couldn’t be happier that Waymo has received its official permit to operate here in San José, and we’re pleased that Waymo chose our Airport as only the second major airport in the world to offer its services to travelers,” said Mookie Patel, the airport’s director of aviation, highlighting the significance of this achievement.
Why This Permit Is A Big Deal
The Waymo San Jose International Airport Permit is a big deal because, California, despite being home to numerous autonomous vehicle companies and testing programs, has been notably cautious about airport operations. General Order 157-E and CPUC Decision 20-11-046 prohibit autonomous vehicle passenger service at airports without the express authorization of the relevant airport authority, making SJC’s approval particularly significant.
The permit represents a breakthrough that other California airports, including the much larger San Francisco International Airport (SFO), have yet to achieve. Earlier this year, Waymo won a 30-day permit to begin mapping roadways at SFO, but commercial service is not available there, with SFO officials stating they “continue to meet with Waymo on the terms of a permit for operations at SFO.”
Details of the Permit and Implementation at SJC
The Waymo San Jose International Airport Permit complies with regulations from California’s Public Utilities Commission and local authorities, outlining a structured rollout. Key elements include:
- Testing Phase: Fully autonomous testing with Waymo employees will commence this fall to validate operations on airport property.
- Commercial Operations: Public access is anticipated in late 2025, allowing passengers to book rides through the Waymo One app.
- Pickup Procedures: Vehicles will collect passengers at Ground Transportation Centers in Terminals A and B, serving destinations within Waymo’s Bay Area coverage.
- Scope Limitations: The initial focus is on pickups, with potential future expansions to include drop-offs.
SJC’s infrastructure, including its terminal layout and proximity to tech centers, supports this integration effectively.
Second Major U.S. Airport Following Phoenix Sky Harbor
SJC joins Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) as the second major U.S. airport with Waymo operations. PHX introduced the service in 2022 and expanded to round-the-clock curbside access in August 2024, completing hundreds of thousands of trips.
Waymo is making a statement: its ability to scale successfully across diverse locations.
Silicon Valley’s Official Airport
“Passengers traveling through the official Airport of Silicon Valley will be able to hail a Waymo autonomous vehicle via the Waymo app upon landing,” the company announced.
This designation as “Airport of Silicon Valley” makes the autonomous vehicle integration particularly symbolic, representing the convergence of the region’s innovative spirit and practical transportation solutions.
Broader Impacts on Travel and Industry
For travelers, Waymo offers a consistent alternative to traditional taxis and ride-shares, potentially reducing wait times and congestion at airports. In the Bay Area, this is particularly relevant with upcoming events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches at Levi’s Stadium and the Super Bowl, which will draw large crowds.
The permit could stimulate economic activity by showcasing regional innovation to visitors.
Nationally and internationally, the breakthrough advances the adoption of self-driving technology in infrastructure sectors, with Waymo planning expansions to cities like Denver, Seattle, Dallas, Miami, Washington, D.C., and initial testing in New York City. Related advancements in sustainable mobility, such as the use of electric vehicles, contribute to lower emissions in airport vicinities.
Comparative Analysis: Airport Autonomous Vehicle Services
| Airport | Status | Launch Date | Service Area | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Sky Harbor | Active | 2022 | 315 sq miles Metro Phoenix | World’s first airport AV service |
| San Jose Mineta | Approved, Testing | End of 2025 | San Jose metro area | First in California |
| San Francisco Int’l | Mapping only | TBD | N/A | Negotiations ongoing |
“I am thrilled Waymo will offer passengers a new innovative option in how passengers travel to and from the San José Mineta International Airport (SJC),” said San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “Waymo provides the same dependability and convenience travelers have come to expect at SJC, all while leaving a lasting impression to travelers that highlights the spirit of innovation that defines our region.”
The success of the program, however, will largely depend on passenger adoption rates and satisfaction levels. The Phoenix model provides encouraging data, but California’s market presents different dynamics and expectations.
Looking Ahead
Success at San Jose will likely accelerate discussions with other major California airports. The economic and operational benefits demonstrated could overcome remaining regulatory and operational hurdles at facilities like SFO, LAX, and San Diego International.
Additionally, the high-profile nature of airport operations provides an excellent showcase for autonomous vehicle technology. Every successful ride builds public confidence and acceptance, contributing to broader adoption across different use cases and geographic areas.
The success of this initiative will be closely watched by industry leaders, regulators, and communities considering their own autonomous vehicle futures. For travelers, the permit promises more convenient, potentially more affordable, and certainly more innovative transportation options.
It’s safe to say that the true measure of this permit’s significance will be revealed in the coming months as testing begins and commercial service launches.
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I’m Dr. Brandial Bright, also known as the AVangelist. As a dedicated and passionate researcher in autonomous and electric vehicles (AVs and EVs), my mission is to educate and raise awareness within the automotive industry. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Fifth Level Consulting, I promote the adoption and innovation of advanced vehicle technologies through speaking engagements, consulting, and research as we progress to level 5 fully autonomous vehicles.
