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Feature Story
Waymo's milestone SFO mapping permit comes with strings attached | TechCrunch
Mar 18, 2025 · techcrunch.com
The permit represents a significant turnaround for Waymo, which was unable to secure a mapping permit in 2023. The approval process is complex, requiring additional permissions from the San Francisco Airport Commission. Waymo's efforts to gain access to SFO have been ongoing for over a year, and the process is expected to be similar to the one used when Uber and Lyft first sought airport access. While Waymo currently has temporary access for mapping, it will need a ground transportation permit to operate commercially at SFO, which has not yet been approved.
Key takeaways
- Waymo received a temporary permit to map roadways at San Francisco International Airport, marking the first step towards potential commercial operations.
- The permit requires Waymo to manually drive vehicles for mapping and share specific data with the city and airport authorities.
- Waymo's permit prohibits the use of autonomous vehicles for commercial goods delivery, addressing concerns from the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
- Waymo will need a ground transportation permit for future commercial operations at SFO, which has not yet been approved.