Clearly, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim aren’t the only organization with big city envy.
The Oakland Board of Port Commissioners voted Thursday to change the airport’s name to “Oakland San Francisco Bay Area International Airport” in an effort to bring more recognition to the airport.
Despite opposition from some San Francisco residents and officials, commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the new nickname, replacing the more accurate “Oakland Metropolitan International Airport.” The airport’s three-letter code, OAK, will remain the same, much to the relief of travel agents and airline ticketing systems.
The name change is an attempt to publicize Oakland Airport’s location in the San Francisco Bay Area, where it has been since 1927, according to a news release from the Board of Port Commissioners.
“Our board came to these discussions with a shared love for Oakland and a desire to see our city and airport thrive,” Port Commission Chairwoman Barbara Leslie said in a statement. “Since our initial vote, the Port has met with dozens of community leaders and stakeholders and heard their concerns. We move forward with a commitment to honor our past while building a stronger, more inclusive future.
Before the new name can attract more tourists to the modest two-terminal airport on the east side of the bay, however, the council will have to fend off a legal challenge from the city on the west side.
San Francisco filed a lawsuit against Oakland in U.S. District Court on April 18, alleging that the new name would infringe on the trademark it holds for the name San Francisco International Airport. By the way, this airport is located between San Bruno and Millbrae in unincorporated San Mateo County, about 13 miles south of the San Francisco City Attorney’s Office.
The Port of Oakland filed a counterclaim Thursday, asking the court to rule that the new airport’s name does not infringe on the SFO trademark.
“The San Francisco City Attorney’s decision to file a lawsuit is an attempt to stop consumer education, prevent the expansion of air travel options for Bay Area residents and visitors Area, and is a misguided use of San Francisco taxpayer dollars,” Port Attorney Mary Richardson said in a statement. .
San Francisco International Airport has used San Francisco Airport or its current name for most of its history. Officials expressed “serious concerns” about changing the name of Oakland Airport, saying it could create confusion and economic losses for travelers.
“San Francisco has taken no pleasure in pursuing this legal action,” City Attorney David Chiu said in a statement. “We urge Oakland leaders to listen to reason and work with us so we can avoid costly litigation.” If we can work together on a name that meets the goals of both airports, we should do so for the benefit of all travelers and our region.
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