In a bold move, the Board of Commissioners for the Port of Oakland has voted unanimously in favor of renaming the city's airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. The decision, however, has sparked controversy and threats of a lawsuit from neighboring San Francisco, claiming trademark violation.

Currently known as Oakland International Airport, the proposed name change aims to address a common issue where travelers, unfamiliar with the region, mistakenly fly into San Francisco's airport despite their destination being closer to Oakland. By modifying the name to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport, officials hope to eliminate confusion and make it clear that OAK is the closest major airport for 4.1 million people residing in the East Bay area.

The commission's decision came after nearly an hour of public comments, with some Oakland residents and airline representatives showing support for the name change. On the opposing side, representatives of San Francisco's tourism and hospitality interests voiced concerns that the new name would confuse visitors, especially those flying in from abroad.

San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu threatened a lawsuit against Oakland officials, stating that the proposed name change would violate San Francisco's trademark on "San Francisco International Airport." Chiu argued that San Francisco had held these registrations for an extended period, making them "incontestable" under federal law.

San Francisco officials are worried about potential customer confusion and disservice resulting from the name change. Ivar C. Satero, the director of San Francisco's airport, expressed deep concern over the matter.

Despite the outcry from San Francisco, the Port Commission stands by its decision. Port Commission President Barbara Leslie emphasized the importance of standing up for Oakland and the East Bay in a statement after the vote. The commission plans to proceed with the formal renaming process, collaborating with airlines, other airports, and local agencies to reflect the modification of the airport and airline systems.

The controversy surrounding the name change arises at a challenging time for Oakland, as the city deals with rising crime and the loss of their professional sports team, the Athletics. Last week, it was announced that the team will leave Oakland after this season and temporarily play in a minor league park near Sacramento until their new stadium in Las Vegas is completed. This departure leaves Oakland without any major sports teams, with the NFL's Raiders, the NBA's Warriors, and the NHL's Seals already having left the city.

Not all supporters are convinced of the benefits of the name change. Some argue that it could create confusion for travelers, especially those visiting the Bay Area for the first time. San Francisco residents, including State Sen. Scott Wiener, voiced their opposition, suggesting that Oakland should find an alternative solution to enhance its identity.

The final vote on the name change is scheduled for May 9, where the Port Commission will decide whether to officially move forward with renaming the airport. If approved, the staff will begin working on the formal renaming process, ensuring coordination with airlines, other airports, and local agencies.

While the dispute between Oakland and San Francisco continues, the focus remains on providing clarity and geographic awareness to travelers, as well as revitalizing Oakland amidst recent challenges.