In a surprising turn of events, the world’s tallest rollercoaster, Kingda Ka, is set for demolition after closing just a few months ago. Located at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, Kingda Ka opened in 2005 as a record-breaking attraction, reaching a height of 456 feet. It held the title of tallest rollercoaster globally for almost two decades and for a period, it was also the fastest ride on Earth.

When it first launched, Kingda Ka wowed thrill-seekers with its launch speed and vertical climb, and eventually claimed the title. World’s fastest rollercoasterReaching speeds of up to 128 mph. However, the rollercoaster speed record was later surpassed by Formula Rossa in Abu Dhabi, which opened in 2010. Despite this, Kingda Ka retained its title as the world’s tallest rollercoaster, a record it held for an impressive 19 years.

However, in November 2024, Six Flags announced the sudden closure of Kingda Ka, citing “modern progress” as the primary reason behind its closure. Six Flags spokesman, Mark Villari Jr., noted that the challenges posed by the aging ride, as well as its inconsistent performance, were contributing factors to the decision. “These advancements have challenged operations and contributed to an inconsistent guest experience,” Villari said, highlighting that the ride’s growing maintenance issues are hampering the ability to provide a smooth and safe experience for visitors. How are they affecting?

Demolition plans and new coaster

In another blow to Kingda Ka’s legacy, it has now been confirmed that permission for its demolition has been granted. The iconic ride, which once epitomized adrenaline-pumping thrills, will be removed to make way for a new, multi-record-breaking Launch Coaster. The new ride, opening next year, promises to be an exciting addition to Six Flags Great Adventure, though details about its specific features have been kept under wraps.

Kingda Ka’s demolition marks the end of an era in theme park history, but not the end of the pursuit of taller and faster rollercoasters. Although Kingda Ka has retained its title for years, a new contender for world’s tallest rollercoaster has already emerged.

New challengers for the title

While Kingda Ka’s record will soon be vacated, the United States still has its title. World’s tallest rollercoasterAt Six Flags Magic Mountain in California, Superman: Escape from Krypton towers at 415 feet, still shorter than King Ka but still the premier record-breaking ride in America.

However, the most exciting new contender for the title of tallest rollercoaster globally is Falcon Flight in Saudi Arabia. Set to open later this year, Falcon Flight will soar an impressive 442 feet, making it taller than the London Eye. This new ride will break records not only in height but also in speed. The Falcon’s flight will surpass Formula Rossa in Abu Dhabi, which has a top speed of 149 mph, reaching an astonishing 156 mph, making it the fastest rollercoaster in the world.

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