The Disney Skyliner is one of this year’s biggest new additions to Walt Disney World®Resort, with the gondolas suspended in the air going from resort to park.
Disney has announced some new details, meaning that the Skyliner won’t be far from opening. This is perfect for those looking to head to the parks around the launch of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, adding more traffic options and freeing up space and wait times for buses.
Travel Time
Each gondola travels at 11 mph, although Disney says it will feel faster than that, as rides only take an average of 15 minutes. Wait times likely will not back up for the gondolas as long as they sometimes do for busses, as the gondolas are constantly moving. That said, there is a system in place to allow additional boarding time for those with limited mobility.
Occupancy
Each gondola contains two wooden benches, with each of them able to hold five guests. The occupancy size of up to ten guests is a relief, as a majority of parties will not have to separate when boarding.
Design
Gondolas will appear in six different colors, with many of them boasting one of 22 different character designs on the outside. The themes include Mickey and Minnie, Donald and Goofy, the Hitchhiking Ghosts, Toy Story, Star Wars, Guardians of the Galaxy, Coco, Pirates of the Caribbean, Monsters, Inc. and more.
While there is no air conditioning, the gondolas were designed with an understanding of the Florida summer heat. The cabin windows of each gondola reflect sunlight, and each contains mesh screens to allow air to flow freely.
Launch Date
There is no specific start date for when guests can begin riding the gondolas, but passenger testing is scheduled to begin in August. Empty vehicles have already begun the testing process, so by the time cast members, who will get to test first, get on the gondolas, they will already have seen extensive tests.
Featured image ©Disney.