(Source- airlinesairportsterminal)
Oakland authorities have taken a bold step by voting in favor of renaming the city’s airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport, despite facing potential legal action from San Francisco over trademark concerns.
The Port of Oakland’s Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on Thursday to proceed with the name change and scheduled a final vote for May 9. Currently known as Oakland International Airport, the proposed change aims to address a recurring issue where travelers, unfamiliar with the region, mistakenly fly into San Francisco’s airport instead of Oakland’s, even when their destination is closer to the latter across the Bay. Notably, the airport’s three-letter code, OAK, will remain unchanged.
Port Commission President Barbara Leslie emphasized the significance of the name change, stating, “We are standing up for Oakland and the East Bay.” Leslie highlighted that renaming the airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport would clarify its proximity for millions of residents, prestigious institutions, and California’s Wine Country.
Board of Commissioners for the Port of Oakland Unanimously Approves Name Change
During the commission meeting, public comments were heard from Oakland residents, airline representatives supporting the change, and opponents from San Francisco’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Some supporters suggested prioritizing Oakland ahead of San Francisco in the new name.
Once the final approval is granted next month, the formal renaming process will commence, involving coordination with airlines, airports, and local agencies to update airport and airline systems.
This decision comes amidst challenges facing Oakland, including rising crime rates and the departure of the city’s last remaining professional sports team, the Athletics, at the end of the current season. With the Athletics relocating temporarily to a minor league park near Sacramento before moving to Las Vegas, Oakland will be left without any major sports teams, having already lost the NFL’s Raiders, the NBA’s Warriors, and the NHL’s Seals in the past.
Legal Threats from San Francisco Prompt Debate Over Trademarks and Traveler Confusion
San Francisco officials have expressed concern over the potential confusion for travelers and have threatened legal action, citing trademark infringement on “San Francisco International Airport.” San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu warned of possible legal repercussions if Oakland proceeds with the name change.
Opposition to the name change has also surfaced from residents and officials in San Francisco, who fear it will lead to confusion among travelers, particularly those visiting the Bay Area for the first time. State Sen. Scott Wiener voiced his disapproval, emphasizing that Oakland should maintain its distinct identity.
Despite the controversy, Craig Simon, the Port of Oakland’s interim aviation director, emphasized the importance of the name change for improving geographic awareness and attracting new routes and airlines to the airport.
As discussions continue, the fate of the proposed name change rests on the outcome of the final vote in May and the resolution of legal disputes between Oakland and San Francisco.
