In a controversial move, the Board of Commissioners for the Port of Oakland has voted in favor of changing the name of the city's airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. The decision, made despite threats of a lawsuit from San Francisco officials, aims to increase awareness of the airport's location for travelers flying into the Bay Area.

The airport, currently known as Oakland International Airport, has faced challenges in attracting passengers and adding new routes in recent years. Craig Simon, the Port of Oakland's interim aviation director, stated that the lack of geographic awareness has made airlines hesitant to sustain and add new routes in Oakland.

Supporters of the name-change argue that adding “San Francisco” to the airport's name will help clarify its location for travelers and boost inbound traffic. Port Commission President Barbara Leslie emphasized that the new name will highlight the airport's position on the San Francisco Bay and promote economic growth in Oakland and the East Bay region.

However, the proposed name-change has sparked opposition from San Francisco officials, including City Attorney David Chiu, who threatened legal action against Oakland if they proceed with the renaming. Chiu argued that the move would violate San Francisco International Airport's trademark and cause confusion for travelers.

The dispute over the airport's name comes at a time when Oakland is facing challenges, including rising crime rates and the loss of professional sports teams like the Oakland Athletics. Despite the pushback from San Francisco, Oakland airport officials remain committed to the name-change and are scheduled to take a final vote on May 9 to make it official.