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The iconic Kingda Ka roller coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson was demolished today (Friday, February 28) in a dramatic implosion. Once the world's tallest and fastest roller coaster, Kingda Ka was reduced to rubble early this morning, ahead of the scheduled time between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. The Ocean County Prosecutor's Office had warned residents about the loud noises from the implosion, advising them to keep pets indoors if they are sensitive to loud sounds.
Kingda Ka, which opened in 2005, propelled riders up a 456-foot tower at speeds of 128 mph. Over its lifetime, it provided more than 12 million rides. However, it closed at the end of the 2024 season, and Six Flags officials confirmed that it would not be repurposed. The ride's closure marks the end of an era, as it was overtaken in speed by the Formula Rossa in Abu Dhabi in 2010 and in height by Falcons Flight at Six Flags Qiddiya in Saudi Arabia.
The demolition of Kingda Ka paves the way for new attractions at the park. Six Flags Great Adventure plans to open a new roller coaster, The Flash: Vertical Velocity, later this year. Additionally, a "multi-world-record-breaking launch coaster" is set to replace Kingda Ka in 2026, although details about this new ride have yet to be revealed.
Fans of Kingda Ka have expressed their sadness over the loss of the beloved ride. One fan shared on social media, "I grew up going to this Six Flags all the time... and this was my favorite ride. I used to count how many times I rode it, and it was 60+." Despite the nostalgia, excitement builds for the new attractions that will continue the park's legacy of thrilling experiences.
According to WPVI, the park will reopen on March 29, welcoming guests to experience its new offerings. As the park evolves, it remains committed to delivering unforgettable thrills to its visitors.