The world’s fastest and tallest rollercoaster, the Falcon Flight, is set to open in Saudi Arabia next year.
The upcoming Six Flags Qiddiya amusement park in Riyadh will host the Falcon Flight coaster when it opens to the public in October 2024. The theme park is a part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative aimed at promoting the country’s economic, social, and cultural diversification.
Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), in partnership with Intamin Amusement Rides, kicked off the design process for the Falcon’s Flight at the beginning of 2022. Now, at the International Association for Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) expo 2023 in Orlando, Intamin released more details, including a model car.
The roller coaster will stand at 650 feet tall and reach a top speed of up to 156 mph (251 km/h) on its 13,000-foot track. It will travel across approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) and feature a vertical cliff dive maneuver into a 160-meter-deep valley using magnetic motor acceleration (LSM technology).
The Falcon’s Flight will be the tallest free-standing coaster structure in the world and will also feature a parabolic airtime hill that will provide a weightless airtime experience.
It will dominate the skyline at Qiddiya weave, extending right out of the theme park, up the cliffside, and down the cliff face – the greatest drop of any ride in the world. During each ride, which lasts for about three minutes, up to 20 passengers can experience the thrill of three electromagnetic propulsion launch systems, as well as breathtaking panoramic views of Six Flags Qiddiya and the Resort Core.
Intamin says the roller coaster will feature a windscreen for each row to shield the riders from extreme conditions without the need for any protective gear. The leading car, Falcon’s Flight, is designed to resemble a falcon’s head and can accommodate two passengers. The subsequent cars follow a configuration for four passengers each, with an open design to enhance the perception of speed and flight sensation.
In addition, Falcon’s Flight will have extra-large running wheels with specially designed rims to ensure superior cooling and address the challenges posed by high speeds and elevated temperatures in the Saudi Arabian desert. The LSM vehicles will feature a fully machined chassis without welds and programmable onboard lights with 35 individually controllable light modules.
This project aims to diversify the economy, reduce reliance on oil and gas, and promote tourism. It promises to be a thrilling ride that combines cutting-edge technology with unforgettable experiences, marking a major milestone in Saudi Arabia’s foray into the entertainment and tourism industry.
