Waymo launched its robotaxi service at San Antonio International Airport, marking its fourth airport location. The service facilitates curbside drop-offs at terminals and pick-ups at designated ride-share areas.
This launch represents Waymo’s first airport service in Texas. The company currently operates in San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Houston. Waymo also provides airport transport at Phoenix Sky Harbor International and has recently expanded to San Francisco and San Jose Mineta International airports.
Although the San Antonio service began in February, it is still only accessible through an invitation-based system. The waitlist for the service has reportedly reached “tens of thousands,” with plans to transition to broader public access soon. Waymo’s approach follows similar phased rollouts in Dallas, Houston, and Orlando.
Waymo is exercising caution amid plans for rapid expansion, aiming to introduce its services in approximately 20 additional cities, including Tokyo and London. Currently, its robotaxi service is operational in ten cities and boasts over 500,000 rides per week, a figure that has doubled year-over-year.
The company also plans to introduce rides in a new Zeekr-built van named Ojai later this year. Waymo claims its robotaxis have proven to be safer than human drivers, contributing to a reduction in serious crashes.
However, Waymo has encountered challenges during its expansion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating reports of its robotaxis passing school buses illegally during pick-ups and drop-offs of children. To this end, Waymo has released software updates aimed at addressing the issue and is working with Austin officials to ensure compliance.
