Waymo approved to launch robotaxis at SFO

Driving the news: The rollout, which was approved under a new testing and operations pilot permit announced by Mayor Daniel Lurie Tuesday, will occur in three phases:

• Phase 1: Testing with a trained safety driver behind the wheel.
• Phase 2: Fully autonomous rides for Waymo and SFO staff.
• Phase 3: Commercial service for the public.

What they're saying: "The approval of this permit with Waymo provides passengers with a new and innovative option that delivers the dependability and ease travelers expect when coming through SFO," airport director Mike Nakornkhet said in a statement.

Catch up quick: San Francisco first authorized digital mapping of SFO's roadways in March — a pivotal first step in collecting data needed for the Waymo software to make real-time driving decisions with precision.

• Tuesday's announcement also builds on Lurie's recent push to expand Waymo, Uber Black and Lyft Black services along Market Street.

The big picture: SFO will join Phoenix Sky Harbor — where Waymo has nearly three years of experience shuttling riders — and San Jose Mineta International, where operations are set to begin soon, in offering airport robotaxi services.

What's next: Waymo will kick off the first round of testing "soon," in a "matter of weeks or less," per company spokesperson Chris Bonelli.

• Waymo must meet strict safety and data-reporting requirements before moving to public operations.
• A timeline for Phases 2 and 3 is still TBD.