Local 6 Theme World: Mine Open; Falcon Delayed

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May 28, 2014

Mine Open; Falcon Delayed

Quick update from Theme World about two attractions some of you have asked about.

First -- Disney's Fantasyland expansion is complete. Orlando Magic players  Victor Oladipo and Tobias Harris helped officially open the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train today.

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 They were joined by kids from "Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida."  The ride has been unofficially open for a few days. It is rightly described as a family-friendly coaster -- but Oladipo seems to find it thrilling.


I just checked the "My Disney Experience" App and wait times are high. I saw it as high as 90 minutes earlier, but here's what it is at this writing.



FastPass+ is available, but you will skip the interactive queue games if you do.
While "Mine Train" is open,  Busch Gardens' newest thrill ride, Falcon's Fury may be a way off.  I told you earlier that Busch canceled a media event, which is always a good sign something is behind schedule.


Today Busch made it official with this statement:
 
"Busch Gardens' new thrill ride Falcon's Fury includes first-of-its kind design elements, systems and parts. Due to a delay in the fabrication of key component parts, neither the manufacturer nor Busch Gardens are able to complete the lengthy testing processes needed to open the ride to the public. The safety of our guests and team members remains Busch Gardens' top priority and none of these delays involve safety systems. The ride has been safely operated in the initial stages of the testing process, and all other elements of the park's newest re-imagined land Pantopia are now open to guests. Busch Gardens will provide updates on the ride opening as events warrant. We are committed to delivering world-class thrills and the best possible ride experience, and we look forward to the launch of Falcon's Fury, North America's tallest freestanding drop tower, later this summer."

I've seen videos online of a metal support swinging free during testing.  Those supports are supposed to be attached to the seats that swing  forward so you can better see your  300+ foot plunge of doom.  I have heard that problem has been fixed, however. We will keep you posted on

That's all for today!

Keep your emails, questions, tips and comments coming! I always appreciate the feedback. You can always find all of my blog entries at www.clickorlando.com/themeparks


About the Author

Ken Pilcher is a lifelong Floridian with more than 30 years in journalism experience. He joined News 6 in 2003 and has covered Central Florida attractions and theme parks since 1988. He currently produces News 6 at 7 p.m.

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