Waymo Opens to Everyone in San Antonio, San Diego, & Tampa
Service includes rides to San Antonio International Airport, expanding beyond initial launch areas.
Waymo has expanded its robotaxi service to the general public in San Antonio, San Diego, and Tampa, allowing anyone in these cities to hail a fully autonomous ride via the Waymo app.
What Happened
According to a statement from Waymo, users in San Antonio, San Diego, and Tampa can now download the app and request rides without restriction. The expansion includes service to the San Antonio International Airport. Waymo noted that it had previously opened service to select groups earlier in the year, welcoming hundreds of thousands of riders in these markets for trips ranging from grocery runs to visits to local landmarks like the Riverwalk.
Why It Matters
The inclusion of airport pickups and drop-offs marks a significant operational milestone for Waymo’s expansion strategy. Jesus Saenz, Director of Airports for the City of San Antonio Aviation, stated that the partnership offers travelers a new option for reaching downtown or catching flights. In San Diego, Bob Kelly, Founder and CEO of the San Diego Seniors Community Foundation, highlighted the potential for self-driving technology to provide independence for older adults, describing it as a tool for inclusion rather than just innovation.
The Bottom Line
Waymo’s move to open access in three additional major US cities signals continued growth in its autonomous ride-hailing footprint, with airport integration serving as a key feature for user adoption.
