Nighthawk, Carowinds - Review

Vekoma Flying Coaster. This particular model was the first Flying Dutchman coaster produced by Vekoma, and it was previously located at Paramount’s Great America in California, where it opened in 2000 as the world’s first flying coaster. Riders board in a seated position and the seats recline backwards so that riders lay on their backs. During the ride, the train flips over to travel underneath the track, which is when the riders assume the flying position.

The ride has 2 trains each with 6 cars containing 1 row of 4 seats. The restraints consist of a rubber life vest that clips together to secure the upper body during flight, and a lap bar that secures the ankles and hips in place.

The ride begins with a left hand turn out of the station and onto the lifthill. At the top of the lift, the train takes a small drop then travels into a left-hand turnaround where the train makes its first flip over to send riders into the flying position. The train travels down the first drop then up into a Horseshoe element. The train then takes a drop and flips back over into the laying position.

The train then takes a right-hand turnaround before traveling down a hill and into a 360-degree Vertical Loop. After exiting the loop, then train climbs up and takes a left-hand turnaround and flips over again into the flying position. There then follows a small drop, a right-hand turnaround, where the train flips over again into the laying position. A double Corkscrew follows, and then riders enter a right-hand turn that leads to the brake run. A right-hand turnaround then takes the train back into the station.

I haven't ridden this ride since it was relocated to Carowinds, but I have ridden it in its former location, and have to say that I think the ride is great. It may be a little bumpy in parts, particularly in the Corkscrews, and the restraints are somewhat uncomfortable, but the ride is exciting, thrilling, and intense enough to satisfy many thrill seeking individuals.