This weekend, Kings Dominion in central Virginia is set to open Rapterra – the world’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster.
Launching on 29 March, Rapterra is 145 feet tall and 3,086 feet long, making it a record-breaking new addition at Kings Dominion.
“Rapterra is the perfect centerpiece for our 50th anniversary celebration and promises to bring a captivating and exhilarating set of thrills to a brand-new generation of guests,” said Bridgette Bywater, vice president and general manager of Kings Dominion.
She said, “Cutting-edge attractions, family-friendly thrills and developing rich, immersive experiences are what has made Kings Dominion the premier Virginia destination for 50 years.
“We carry on that tradition with the introduction of Rapterra.”
Manufactured by Bolliger and Mabillard (B&M), the new coaster is inspired by a fictional bird of prey called the Jungle Hawk.
Riders are launched from 0 to 65 miles per hour in just 4 seconds, before enjoying several aerial manoeuvres and three inversions.
World’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster
Another launched wing coaster by B&M, Mandrill Mayhem, opened at Chessington World of Adventures in the UK in 2023.
Mandrill Mayhem is part of the £17 million ‘World of Jumanji’ land, based on Sony Pictures’ $2 billion film franchise.
Kings Dominion is a 400-acre amusement park in Doswell, Virginia. It offers more than 60 rides, shows and attractions, including 13 roller coasters and the 20-acre Soak City water park.
The park is now owned and operated by Six Flags Entertainment Corporation after Cedar Fair’s merger with Six Flags was completed last year.
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation oversees 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and nine resort properties across 17 US states, Canada and Mexico.
Images courtesy of Six Flags
