Hot on the heels of announcing the permanent closure of one ride, Universal Orlando Resort appears to be preparing for the return of another. As one chapter ends, another begins at this ever-evolving destination.
Since the grand opening of Universal Studios Florida in 1990, Universal Orlando Resort has continually transformed. With the addition of Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and the highly anticipated Epic Universe opening in May, the park has become a playground of innovation.
However, progress comes with the bittersweet reality of saying goodbye to classic attractions. Over the years, guests have bid farewell to beloved rides such as Jaws, Back to the Future: The Ride, Kongfrontation, Twister…Ride It Out, and Earthquake: The Big One.
Yet Another Closure Hits Universal Orlando Resort
This week, Universal confirmed another closure: the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster will cease operations forever in September 2025.
Speculation about its replacement has already begun, with theories ranging from a Ghostbusters ride to a Back to the Future-themed attraction. (Personally, we’re manifesting the former).
But there’s a silver lining. Across the park at Islands of Adventure, it seems Pteranodon Flyers in the Jurassic Park section is finally gearing up to reopen after a months-long hiatus.
The Return of Pteranodon Flyers
The ride first closed unexpectedly in April 2024, with rumors pointing to a challenging technical issue. Although no official refurbishment was scheduled, the closure persisted, sparking speculation about its future. However, recent activity around the ride suggests its reopening is imminent.
Theme park enthusiast @OrlandoAmusmnt recently posted on X (formerly Twitter), sharing photos of ride vehicles back on the track and team members training at the station.
BREAKING:
After almost a year long closure, Pteranodon Flyers inside Jurassic Park at Universal Orlando looks to be reopening very soon!
Ride vehicles are back on track and Team Members are currently training for reopening in the station!
🦖
@UniversalORL
BREAKING:
After almost a year long closure, Pteranodon Flyers inside Jurassic Park at Universal Orlando looks to be reopening very soon!
Ride vehicles are back on track and Team Members are currently training for reopening in the station!
🦖@UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/ngkjwpln47— Orlando Amusement (@OrlandoAmusmnt) December 28, 2024
While this news excites many, it’s worth remembering that Pteranodon Flyers is famously off-limits to most adults. Designed as a family ride, it allows adults to board only if accompanied by a child between 36 and 56 inches tall.
This restriction isn’t about weight; it’s about capacity. A former Universal attractions operator explained on Reddit:
Each bird holds two guests, and you can’t put more than three birds on the track without causing delays or technical issues. At any given time, the ride can carry only six guests in full operation.
Attempts to loosen restrictions have failed in the past, with long lines blocking pathways and wait times exceeding four hours.
Have you experienced the unique thrills of Pteranodon Flyers?
