Waymo, owned by Alphabet, has expanded its robotaxi service to offer 24/7 curbside pickups and drop-offs at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, specifically at Terminals 3 and 4. This move marks a significant step in Waymo’s effort to broaden its driverless vehicle services, bringing it into direct competition with traditional ride-hailing options like taxis, Uber, and Lyft.
Initially, in November 2022, Waymo began offering driverless trips to the Phoenix airport, but these rides were only available to an airport shuttle stop at the 44th Street Sky Station. Over time, the company transitioned to providing curbside service, enhancing convenience for passengers by allowing them to be dropped off and picked up directly at the airport terminals.
High Demand for Waymo’s Airport Service
The popularity of these robotaxi rides has been evident. Waymo recently announced that it will surpass 100,000 trips to and from the airport since the service started. This milestone highlights the growing acceptance and demand for autonomous vehicle services among travelers.
Waymo’s decision to offer round-the-clock service follows nearly two years of testing and a gradual phase-in program, ensuring they are prepared to handle the complexities and high traffic volumes typical of airport environments.
Featured Image courtesy of JASON HENRY/AFP via Getty Images
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