Alphabet's (GOOGL.US) autonomous taxi division Waymo has received pilot approval to conduct testing at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The company will initially test its autonomous taxis with human drivers aboard, followed by testing in fully autonomous mode with passengers including Waymo employees and airport staff. Upon completion of these tests, Waymo will commence commercial operations.

The company stated in its blog that pickup and drop-off services will initially launch in the airport's "departure and security checkpoint" area, with plans to expand to other areas of San Francisco International Airport in the future.

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie commented on the pilot approval announcement: "We announced back in March that we wanted visitors to be able to ride in our autonomous vehicles as soon as they arrive in San Francisco. Now we're taking another important step toward that goal."

Waymo's autonomous taxis are already operational in San Francisco, Daly City, and San Mateo County (where San Francisco International Airport is located). Meanwhile, Waymo has been providing ride services at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport since 2023. It will also soon begin operations at San Jose Mineta International Airport.