Kingda Ka’s final ride in New Jersey makes way for Six Flags’ next big roller coaster

Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey was once the most powerful and frightening roller coaster in the world. The name alone still strikes fear (and joy) in the hearts of a generation of coaster fans, New Jersey teenagers and just about anyone who saw the massive advertising boom when the coaster debuted in 2005. The attraction rises 456 feet into the sky and reaches a top speed of 128 miles per hour, breaking world roller coaster records when it opens.

Since almost For twenty years, Kingda Ka has been the most iconic ride at Six Flags Great Adventure. On a clear day, Riders can see New York City and Philadelphia before they plummet to their doom. The park estimates that 12 million people have taken the plunge since the ride opened. A ride on the Kingda Ka is a rite of passage in New Jersey.

In recent months, however, rumors have surfaced that Jackson Township’s largest resident is headed for the scrap heap. The online debate raged. Inquiries to Six Flags leadership went unanswered for weeks, further fueling the fire. Fans flocked to social media to vent their frustrations and demand answers.

Finally the bad news was confirmed. Kingda Ka has officially completed his final lap. The popular rides and other attractions Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom, Parachutes, Twister and Green Lantern will be closed and demolished.

Brian Bacica, president of Six Flags Great Adventure Park, gave just a taste of what’s to come: “In 2026, we will unveil an all-new, record-breaking launch coaster, a must-see attraction that will capture the imagination of the world will inspire fans.” ”

The green steel giant that set the standard for thrill rides in the 21st century was first announced in the fall of 2004. Kingda Ka was intended to be the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world. Construction began and Six Flags welcomed eager riders on May 21, 2005. Immediately, the coaster surpassed Cedar Point’s Top Thrill Dragster in both categories. For five years it was the fastest race in the world until the record was broken by Formula Rossa at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. To date, Kingda Ka is the tallest roller coaster ever built.

While details about what exactly will replace Kingda Ka have yet to be revealed, there are rumors that it will be an even bigger and better launch coaster. Heartbroken roller coaster enthusiasts can take solace in the 2025 launch of The Flash: Vertical Velocity, North America’s first super boomerang launch coaster. While the 59 mph ride doesn’t break any speed records, riders have the opportunity to enjoy weightlessness upside down 100 feet above the ground. Hopefully this will keep drivers going until 2026.