Disney Issues January 7 Filing, Changing Beloved ‘Star Wars’ Ride
Something important is happening behind the scenes at Walt Disney World—and it involves one of the most beloved attractions inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Disney has filed a construction permit connected to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, marking the first concrete move toward changing the experience guests know today.
The permit lists “general construction” and applies to the attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney has not announced a closure date or confirmed any downtime, but the filing makes one thing clear: plans to update Smugglers Run are no longer theoretical.
This is the first tangible sign that Disney is preparing to move from announcement to action.
A Confirmed New Mission Is on the Way
Disney has already confirmed that Smugglers Run will soon feature a new mission inspired by The Mandalorian. Scheduled to debut in May 2026, the updated experience will send guests on a new adventure alongside Din Djarin and Grogu, tracking targets across multiple iconic locations from the Star Wars universe.
While the attraction’s core ride system is expected to remain unchanged, the mission itself will be dramatically different. New visuals, story beats, and objectives will reshape how guests experience the Millennium Falcon.
These types of updates require far more than simple software tweaks. Ride systems, projection mapping, audio cues, and show elements must all be tested and installed—often months in advance.
What This Means for Guests Right Now
As of now, Smugglers Run remains open and operating normally. Disney has not added the attraction to its refurbishment calendar, and there is no public indication of when—or if—a closure might occur.
However, permit filings often signal the beginning of a longer preparation process. Whether Disney opts for rolling updates or a more traditional refurbishment remains to be seen.
Guests planning visits in the coming months may want to keep an eye on official announcements, especially as Disney approaches the 2026 launch window for the new mission.
A Smart Evolution for a Fan-Favorite Ride
Smugglers Run has always stood out for its interactive design, placing guests directly in the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon. Unlike many attractions, it was built with flexibility in mind, allowing Disney to refresh the experience without rebuilding it entirely.
By leaning into The Mandalorian, Disney is tapping into one of the most popular modern corners of the Star Wars franchise. The update gives longtime fans a reason to return while keeping the attraction relevant for new generations of guests.
For now, the Millennium Falcon is still flying its original route. But with this permit filed, Disney has made it clear that change is coming—and the next mission is already being prepared behind the scenes.
