This blog post reviews the predictions made about roller coasters that could be closed within five years, analyzing the accuracy of those predictions and discussing the current status of various coasters across different amusement parks.
In December 2019, Airtime Thrills released a video predicting 20 roller coasters that could potentially be gone within five years. Fast forward to December 2024, and it's time to evaluate those predictions and see how many of them came true. The amusement park industry has faced significant challenges, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted operations and ride closures. This blog post will revisit the original list, assess the current status of each coaster, and discuss new predictions for the future.
Desperado at Buffalo Bills
Dragon Fire at Canada's Wonderland
In Vertigo at Kings Island
Roar at Six Flags America
Grizzly at California's Great America
Ninja at Six Flags St. Louis
Hurler at Kings Dominion
Time Warp and Flight Deck at Canada's Wonderland
Predator at Six Flags Darien Lake
Wicked Twister at Cedar Point
Wild Beast at Canada's Wonderland
Gemini at Cedar Point
Wildcat at Hershey Park
Excalibur at Valleyfair
Flash Vertical Velocity at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
Goliath at Six Flags New England
American Eagle at Six Flags Great America
Viper at Six Flags Magic Mountain
Nighthawk at Carowinds
Anaconda at Kings Dominion
Out of the original 20 predictions, only three coasters were accurately predicted to close: Wicked Twister, Goliath, and Wildcat. The remaining 17 coasters are still operational, showcasing the unpredictability of the amusement park industry.
In a follow-up video in 2022, 10 additional coasters were identified as potentially at risk:
Kumba at Busch Gardens Tampa
Vortex at Carowinds
Flashback at Six Flags New England
Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point
Lava Bora at Six Flags Over Texas
Diamondback at Frontier City
Sand Serpent at Busch Gardens Tampa
Possessed at Dorney Park
Title Twister at SeaWorld San Diego
Demon at Six Flags Great America
Looking ahead, several coasters are currently standing but not operating, raising concerns about their future:
The roller coaster landscape is ever-changing, with many factors influencing the fate of these thrilling rides. While some predictions have proven accurate, many coasters have defied expectations and remain operational. As the amusement park industry continues to evolve, enthusiasts will be watching closely to see which rides may be next on the chopping block. If you have any predictions or thoughts on coasters that might be in danger, feel free to share them in the comments.
