San Mateo County Board of Supervisors oppose renaming of Oakland International Airport

As the supervisor for the district where San Francisco International Airport is located, Dave Pine proposed the resolution in an effort to avoid any potential confusion that could come from the name change. 

Supervisor David Canepa voiced his support for the resolution and the necessity to curb the potential for confusion from flyers. 

“No offense to Oakland, but your name is not San Francisco,” Canepa said. 

Though SFO is owned and operated by the city and county of San Francisco, its location in San Mateo County makes it a critical economic driver, as it’s one of the top five employers in the county. The airport has total business revenue impacts of more than $6 billion and $98 million in direct tax impacts. 

Dyanna Volek, SFO Government Affairs manager, said that she appreciates the county’s support and for providing attention to this issue. 

“We feel strongly that maintaining the clarity and integrity of airport names and brands is crucial to its success and passenger experience,” Volek said.  

During public comment, Jerry Brosell said this resolution was “much ado about nothing” and questioned the reasoning for making a proclamation based on “emotional conjecture” rather than hard data on potential economic ramifications.  

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed a resolution last week opposing the name change. On Monday, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu said the city will sue the Port of Oakland for alleged trademark infringement if it moves forward with the name change. 

“We are always encouraging competition and increasing travel to the Bay,” Volek said. “All tides lift all boats, but we don’t think this is the way to do that,” Volek said.