Universal

Universal Thrills Guests by Bringing Back a Beloved Opening-Day Attraction

Jurassic Park Grows Again in Size

Recently, Universal Orlando Resort created a buzz among theme park enthusiasts with the exciting announcement of the reopening of a beloved attraction, Pteranodon Flyers.

Concept artwork for Universal Islands of Adventure, which opened its doors in 1999.
Credit: Universal

Universal Orlando Shakes Up Theme Parks

Recently, Universal Orlando Resort created a buzz among theme park enthusiasts with the exciting announcement of the reopening of a beloved attraction, Pteranodon Flyers. This ride, which first delighted guests on the park’s opening day in 1999, had been closed for nearly a year, leaving fans wondering about its fate.

The excitement stemming from this announcement highlights the importance of classic attractions in theme parks, where nostalgia plays a significant role in guest experiences. Fans expressed a wave of enthusiasm, sharing their speculations during the closure, ranging from possible refurbishments to concerns that it might be permanently retired.

Pteranodon Flyers has officially reopened after a nearly-year long closure.

@insideuniversal on X

https://twitter.com/insideuniversal/status/1892964169122562277

The closure of Pteranodon Flyers was shrouded in mystery and uncertainty. Officially shutting down, the ride left many guests puzzled, leading to rampant speculation regarding its prolonged downtime. Reports of peeling paint and rust on the ride had surfaced as early as early 2023, painting a grim picture of its condition.

Guest experiences had begun to diminish significantly, with some riders voicing concerns over the bumpy and unsettling experiences during their flights above the vibrant Jurassic Park landscape. The apparent neglect of this classic attraction stirred frustrations among fans who had cherished their memories riding the glider. They pondered whether maintenance issues or even a quiet retirement were behind the ride’s unexplained absence.

The much-anticipated return of Pteranodon Flyers uplifted spirits across the resort. After extensive refurbishment, the ride opened its doors once again, and its transformation was nothing short of remarkable. Freshly painted ride vehicles in vibrant green and yellow hues greeted returning guests, restoring the attraction’s prehistoric charm that had initially captivated audiences decades ago.

incredible hulk universal islands of adventure soundtrack
Credit: Universal

Universal committed to safety enhancements, replacing rusted support beams and refurbishing the entire track, ensuring guests could once again experience the thrill of soaring high above the park without the jarring movements that had caused concern in the past. The addition of upgraded queue areas and lighting created a more immersive atmosphere, enhancing the overall ride experience. Guests expressed delight upon riding the revitalized attraction, with many proclaiming it was indeed “worth the wait.”

Pteranodon Flyers: A Unique Family Experience

What sets Pteranodon Flyers apart from other attractions at Universal Orlando is its unique access restrictions. The ride is exclusive to children between 36” and 56” tall, unless accompanied by an adult. This quirk makes it particularly special for families, allowing young guests to enjoy a thrilling ride while under the watchful eyes of their guardians.

The design offers diners a gentle glide above Jurassic Park, providing scenic views of the lush landscape below. This exclusivity has contributed to the ride’s legacy, creating a cherished space for families to bond over the shared experience. Universal’s commitment to maintaining rides like Pteranodon Flyers underlines its dedication to preserving nostalgia while updating attractions for modern standards.

A large rusted metal pipe extends horizontally across the image beneath a grated metal walkway. The background shows wooden structures and foliage. A security camera is mounted nearby.
Credit: Inside The Magic / Emmanuel Detres
View from below of a metal structure with platforms and railings against a partly cloudy blue sky. The structure includes several large support beams. Trees and foliage are visible at the bottom edge of the image.
Credit: Inside The Magic / Emmanuel Detres

Future Prospects for Universal Orlando

As Universal Orlando looks ahead towards upcoming projects and expansions, it balances the introduction of new experiences with the revitalization of classic attractions. With projects like Epic Universe on the horizon, fans can expect thrilling new offerings alongside beloved rides like Pteranodon Flyers.

This dual focus ensures that Universal continues to cater to a diverse audience, from families with young children to thrill-seekers. The reopening of Pteranodon Flyers signals a commitment to guest satisfaction, proving that Universal values its guests’ experiences and memories associated with its attractions.

In summary, the return of Pteranodon Flyers not only reinvigorates the excitement surrounding Universal Orlando but also strengthens its identity as a leader in providing immersive, family-friendly experiences. As the resort balances innovation with nostalgia, guests are eager to see the parks evolve while ensuring that classic favorites remain a vital part of the Universal experience.

Emmanuel Detres

Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

Related Articles