Oakland’s Airport Renamed San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport

Oakland International Airport (OAK) has officially changed its name to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport in a move to attract more passengers and encourage airlines to add more routes. The decision was made by the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners, who voted unanimously for the change.

Despite opposition from San Francisco officials, including a lawsuit filed by the city, Oakland moved forward with the name change. The Port Commission President, Barbara Leslie, stated that the decision was made with a commitment to honoring the past while building a stronger future for the city and airport.

The airport will keep its code, OAK, and other branding intact. Situated on the east side of San Francisco Bay, just a short drive from downtown San Francisco, Oakland International Airport hopes to increase its traffic by raising awareness of its location and potential as a more attractive option for travelers flying to the Bay Area.

Since July 2008, the airport has added 54 new routes, although some have been discontinued. Currently, airlines offer 46 destinations from OAK, with Southwest Airlines being the largest carrier. Oakland officials believe there is room for expansion in their route map and carrier list, as market research has shown a demand for more domestic and international destinations from the airport.

By midday Friday, the airport’s website had been updated with the new name. Despite the controversy surrounding the change, Oakland International Airport is optimistic about the future and the potential for growth in the Bay Area aviation market.