Disney is testing a new queue system for one of its Star Wars attractions.
When Disney launched Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in 2019, it promised fans an experience unlike anything seen before. The themed land, located at Disneyland Park in California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida, immerses visitors in Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu—a detailed, lore-rich environment filled with life-size starships, droids, and iconic characters.
Central to its appeal are two headline attractions: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. But while Rise of the Resistance continues to attract long wait times due to its cutting-edge design and multi-sensory experience, Smugglers Run has seen a dip in demand over the years.
Now, Disney is introducing a new system in what we can only assume is an effort to maximize capacity.
What to Expect From Smugglers Run
Smugglers Run puts guests in the cockpit of Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon for a daring mission to deliver cargo across the galaxy. It’s an interactive experience where riders take on roles as Pilots, Gunners, or Engineers. However, the level of enjoyment often depends on the role assigned, with Pilots typically having the most control and excitement, while Engineers perform less engaging tasks (by which we mean randomly smashing buttons and hoping for the best).
The attraction’s unique setup also presents logistical challenges, as each cockpit seats six people, requiring cast members to efficiently group riders. To address this, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has begun testing a new procedure that allows parties of two to join the single-rider line, traditionally reserved for solo guests.
This change aims to fill available spots more quickly and reduce overall wait times. Like standard single riders, these guests will bypass the preshow featuring Hondo Ohnaka. Worth noting is the fact that groups larger than two entering the line will still be split into smaller groups upon boarding.
A Land Evolving Over Time
Galaxy’s Edge hasn’t evolved all that much since its debut. Beyond the attractions, the land features immersive experiences like Oga’s Cantina and activities such as building custom lightsabers at Savi’s Workshop, but some parkgoers have noted that it desperately needs an additional attraction.
While the odds of that happening any time soon are slim, Disney has recognized the need to continually refresh its offerings to maintain guest interest. At the D23 Expo in 2024, Disney announced that Smugglers Run will receive a new mission featuring characters from The Mandalorian, including the beloved Grogu.
The update, set to launch in 2026, will potentially tie into the upcoming Mandalorian feature film, which will expand the franchise’s lore from Disney+ to the big screen.
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