Waymo has officially launched its robotaxi service at San Antonio International Airport, marking its fourth major airport location. This new addition allows passengers to be dropped off at terminal curbsides and picked up from designated rideshare zones. It represents the company’s first airport service in Texas, complementing its existing operations in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. Waymo has previously provided airport services at Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International and has recently expanded to San Francisco and San Jose international airports, alongside several regional facilities.
Initiated in February, Waymo’s San Antonio robotaxi service is currently in a phased rollout, operating with an invitation-only system. The waitlist has reportedly grown to “tens of thousands,” with hopes to open the service to the general public soon. This cautious approach reflects Waymo’s strategy to ensure quality and reliability as it plans to launch in up to 20 new cities this year, including international expansions in Tokyo and London. Presently, the company operates in 10 cities and has significantly increased its service volume, providing over 500,000 paid rides weekly—double the numbers from a year prior.
Waymo touts the safety of its robotaxis, claiming they are more reliable than human drivers, contributing to a reduction in serious accidents. However, their expansion has not been without challenges. Investigations by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are ongoing after reports of Waymo vehicles bypassing school buses in operation. In response, Waymo has implemented software updates and is collaborating with local Austin officials to address the issue.
Additionally, another incident in Santa Monica involved a low-speed collision between a robotaxi and a child, resulting in minor injuries. Waymo reported that the vehicle slowed from 17 to 6 miles per hour prior to the collision.
Beyond operational challenges, Waymo’s expansion relies heavily on a robust support system. The company employs numerous “remote assistance” personnel based in the U.S. and the Philippines, who assist the robotaxis in navigating complex situations. In emergency scenarios where a vehicle may become immobilised, a network of “roadside assistance” workers and first responders is also on standby to provide aid.
Overall, as Waymo continues to enhance its operational capabilities and navigate regulatory landscapes, its expansion into San Antonio International Airport signifies a significant step in its broader quest to establish a reliable and safe autonomous transport network.
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