Local
BNA opens dedicated pickup zone for Waymo rides, with access initially limited
Waymo began airport pickups and drop-offs at Nashville International Airport on Oct. 13, initially for select riders using a designated curb at the Ground Transportation Center. The launch expands the company’s Nashville service as residents and Metro officials have raised concerns about driverless vehicles on city streets.
Waymo began offering rides to and from Nashville International Airport on Tuesday, Oct. 13, adding BNA as the fifth airport in the company’s network. The service is initially limited to select riders, with access expected to expand over time, according to a company announcement.
Passengers using the service will meet vehicles at Waymo’s designated space at the D1 curb in BNA’s Ground Transportation Center. The airport said the option adds another way for travelers to get to and from the terminal. Waymo’s airport service also operates at airports in Phoenix, San José, San Francisco and San Antonio.
The airport launch comes amid a rapid expansion of autonomous ride-hailing in Nashville. Waymo opened its local service to the public in April and now operates within a reported 50-square-mile area. In September, Nashville also became the first city where Lyft users could be matched with a Waymo vehicle through the Lyft app. Waymo has introduced accounts for riders ages 13 to 17 that are linked to a parent or guardian’s account.
The rollout has also drawn scrutiny. Residents in 12South and Woodbine have voiced concerns about traffic and safety, and Metro has received dozens of complaints about driverless vehicles through hubNashville. Police body-camera footage obtained by local media showed a Waymo vehicle blocking Broadway traffic shortly after public rides began.
Waymo and airport officials have described the service as a new transportation choice, but the limited launch means it is not yet available to all riders. Nashville residents can report concerns about autonomous vehicles through hubNashville or by calling 311; Waymo also accepts feedback through its customer-support site.