A flying roller coaster is a type of steel roller coaster designed to simulate the sensation of flight by positioning riders in a prone (face‑down) orientation, often with their feet pointing forward and the harness securing them in a supine posture. This configuration aims to give riders the impression of soaring through the air, distinguishing the experience from traditional seated or inverted coaster designs.
Design and Mechanics
- Seating Position: Riders are typically secured in a reclining or horizontal position with the torso supported and legs extended forward. The restraints commonly consist of over‑the‑shoulder harnesses combined with leg and lap bars.
- Track Layout: Flying coasters employ standard steel track layouts, featuring elements such as drops, helices, inversions, and “pretzel loops” that exploit the prone orientation to enhance the feeling of weightlessness or negative g‑forces.
- Launch and Lift Systems: Variations include chain lifts, cable lifts, and magnetic launch mechanisms (e.g., linear synchronous motors). The choice of lift system influences ride length and intensity.
- Train Configuration: Trains usually consist of multiple cars, each housing a small number of rows (often two to four) with two riders per row. The trains are engineered to rotate from a loading position (usually upright) to the flying position before dispatch.
Historical Development
- Early Prototypes: The concept of a flying coaster emerged in the late 20th century. The first commercially successful model was the “Stealth” (originally “The Flying Coaster”) by Arrow Dynamics, which opened at Six Flags Great America in 1996.
- Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M): In 1999, B&M introduced the “Flying Coaster” model, debuting with “Air” at Alton Towers (later relocated and renamed). This design refined the rider loading mechanism and track elements, establishing a standard for modern flying coasters.
- Subsequent Manufacturers: Other manufacturers, including Vekoma, Intamin, and Mack Rides, have produced their own flying coaster models, each incorporating distinct restraint systems and layout philosophies.
Notable Installations
| Park | coaster | Manufacturer | Year opened | Length (m) | Height (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Six Flags Great America (USA) | The Demon (formerly The Flying Coaster) | Arrow Dynamics | 1997 | 1,020 | 30 |
| Alton Towers (UK) | Air (formerly The Flying Coaster) | B&M | 1999 | 1,260 | 30 |
| Universal Studios Japan | The Flying Dinosaur | B&M | 2007 | 1,225 | 43 |
| Busch Gardens Williamsburg (USA) | Furius Baco (inverted but sometimes grouped with flying designs) | Intamin | 2007 | 1,018 | 38 |
| Nagashima Spa Land (Japan) | Hakugei | B&M | 2008 | 1,200 | 40 |
| Shanghai Disney Resort (China) | TRON Lightcycle Power Run (poses rider prone) | Intamin | 2021 | 1,422 | 40 |
The table includes a selection of prominent examples and is not exhaustive.
Ride Experience
The primary perceptual effect of a flying coaster is the sensation of soaring, achieved through a combination of visual cues (e.g., elevated track sections and near‑ground passes) and physiological forces (negative g‑forces during elements like pretzel loops). Riders often report an increased perception of speed and a feeling of “floating” compared to seated coasters.
Safety and Regulations
Flying coaster designs are subject to the same safety standards as other amusement rides, including regular inspections of restraint systems, track integrity, and mechanical components. Regulatory bodies such as the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) and national safety agencies mandate compliance with engineering and operational guidelines.
Cultural Impact
Flying roller coasters have been featured in media portrayals of amusement parks and have inspired themed attractions, often linked to concepts of flight, aviation, or mythological winged creatures. Their distinctive rider orientation has contributed to their popularity among coaster enthusiasts, influencing ranking lists in publications such as CoasterForce and RCDB (Roller Coaster DataBase).
See also
- Inverted roller coaster
- Suspended roller coaster
- Roller coaster element
- Steel roller coaster
References
- Bolliger & Mabillard. Flying Coaster Model Specifications (manufacturer technical sheet). Accessed 2024.
- International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Ride Safety Guidelines (2023 edition).
- Roller Coaster DataBase (RCDB). “Flying Coaster” ride category. Retrieved 2024.