In a unanimous decision, the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners has granted final approval for the renaming of the Metropolitan Oakland International Airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. This move is driven by the Port’s desire to increase awareness among travelers about the airport’s prime location on the San Francisco Bay, with the ultimate goal of attracting more nonstop destination options.
“Our Board embarked on these discussions with a deep love for Oakland and an unwavering desire to witness the prosperity of our city and airport,” stated Port Commission President Barbara Leslie. “Following our initial vote, the Port engaged in extensive consultations with numerous community leaders and stakeholders, carefully listening to their concerns. We are proceeding with a steadfast commitment to honoring our past while simultaneously forging a more robust and inclusive future.”
Despite being situated on the San Francisco Bay for close to a century since 1927, a substantial number of travelers remain unaware of OAK’s proximity to the region’s abundant attractions. These include the esteemed universities of the San Francisco Bay Area, the renowned wine country, three national laboratories, and neighboring cities such as San Francisco and Berkeley. By incorporating the airport’s location on the “San Francisco Bay” into its official name, the aim is to heighten awareness among visitors regarding its geographical positioning while preserving the airport’s well-established brand.
“The convenience and ease of traveling through OAK will remain unchanged with our new name,” said Interim Director of Aviation Craig Simon. “OAK is the closest major airport to a staggering 58 percent of the Bay Area population. The combined population of the counties located nearest to OAK stands at 4.1 million, far surpassing the 1.5 million inhabiting San Francisco and San Mateo counties. This designation will serve as a clear indication to the world about the communities we serve.”
The rebranding initiative is intricately linked to the Port’s overarching endeavor to fortify and expand the airport’s role as a vital economic driver for Oakland. The airport serves as a cornerstone, sustaining approximately 30,000 well-compensated jobs within Oakland and the broader San Francisco Bay Area. Furthermore, the Port is actively engaged in enhancing the overall passenger experience through terminal upgrades and the introduction of exciting local concessions and dining options.
