Experience the Thrilling Slingshot Air Ride

The Thrilling World of Slingshot Air Rides

Looking for a heart-pounding adrenaline rush? Then you need to try a slingshot air ride. These incredible attractions use giant bungee cords to launch riders hundreds of feet into the sky at speeds over 100 miles per hour!

What is a Slingshot Air Ride?

A slingshot ride consists of two towers with steel cables anchored between them. At the base of each tower sits a carrier, which is connected to the cables with heavy-duty bungee cords. Riders strap into the carrier, then the cords are stretched back using a winch system. When released, the cords catapult the carriers up into the air at exhilarating speeds.

The Launch

The launch of a slingshot ride is its most intense part. As the bungee cords retract, acceleration forces press riders back into their seats with 3 to 5 G's of force. This rapid acceleration propels the carriers up the two towers, often reaching heights between 200 and 300 feet at speeds over 100 mph.

The intense launch only lasts about 2-3 seconds, but it delivers an absolutely thrilling burst of excitement. Floating weightlessly at the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views before gravity takes over and you swing back toward the ground.

The Experience

A slingshot ride offers a one-of-a-kind adventure unlike any other amusement park attraction. It combines the extreme accelerations of a roller coaster with the freefall sensation of a drop tower ride. Other key parts of the experience include:

• Being strapped in tight to the carrier for safety
• Hearing the cables stretch and creak under extreme tension
• The startling release and explosive launch straight up into the blue sky
• Weightlessness at the top of the arc
• Stomach-dropping dives back toward the ground
• Finally, smooth bounces and swings until the ride gently comes to a stop

Is it Safe?

Slingshot rides utilize redundant safety systems and rigorous inspections to ensure they operate safely. The carriers themselves weigh over 4,000 pounds to keep them firmly anchored in high winds. Thick bungee cords stretch to over three times their length, providing a smooth and controlled ride.

State inspectors examine the equipment regularly. The slingshot towers also undergo continuous monitoring and load testing. Some key safety components include:

• Titanium reinforcement bands on the bungee cords
• High-strength wire rope safety tethers
• Reinforced steel joints & welds throughout the framework
• Hydraulic braking systems in the winches
• Triple redundancy in all structural supports

When operated safely by a trained staff, slingshot rides can launch thousands of guests each year without incident. Follow all posted guidelines, listen to your attendants, and enjoy the thrill of a lifetime.

Where To Find Slingshot Rides

Slingshot rides first debuted in New Zealand in the late 1990s. Increased popularity has since brought them to amusement parks and attractions worldwide. Here is where you'll find some of the very best slingshots today:

United States

• Orlando, Florida (Old Town)
• Las Vegas, Nevada (Stratosphere Casino)
• Atlantic City, New Jersey (Steel Pier)
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (Broadway at the Beach)
• Gatlinburg, Tennessee (The Island)

International Locations

• Blackpool, England (Pleasure Beach)
• Vancouver, Canada (PNE Playland)
• Gold Coast, Australia (Infinity)
• Sentosa Island, Singapore (iFly Singapore)
• Bangkok, Thailand (Dream World amusement park)

Google "slingshot rides near me" to find even more locations. Many traveling carnivals and state fairs also set up temporary slingshot attractions during the summer months.

Tips for Riders

Ready to take flight on a slingshot? Here are some key tips to make the most of your ride:

Secure Loose Items

Glasses, phones, hats and other items must be securely stowed or they'll fly off during the ride. Leave bags and accessories locked away in storage units.

Follow Safety Rules

Pay close attention during the attendant's safety briefing. Follow all loading and unloading procedures carefully. This ensures proper harness fits and safe operation.

Relax During Launch

Tensing up will make the launch more intense. Take deep breaths and keep your body relaxed through the initial catapult up the towers.

Enjoy the Views

The bird's eye views at the top offer amazing scenery you can only see from such height. Spot landmarks, soak in the horizon or find friends in the crowds below.

Consider Weather Conditions

Gusty winds may cause slingshot rides to be closed temporarily. Book on calm, clear days for smooth operation. Avoid slingshots in electrical storms.

Scream it Out!

This is one ride where screaming is fully encouraged! Let loose with joy and excitement as you slingshot into the sky.

With power and grace, slingshot air rides deliver an incredible, safe adventure. Conquer your fear of heights or get your next adrenaline fix. These extreme amusement attractions are true marvels of engineering that every thrill seeker needs to experience at least once.

FAQs

How high do slingshot rides go?

Most slingshot rides catapult riders 200-300 feet in the air at the top of the arc. Some may reach heights over 400 feet on very tall structures.

Can anyone ride a slingshot attraction?

Slingshot rides have height, weight, age and health restrictions. Generally riders must be at least 40 inches tall and under 300 pounds total weight. Guests with pre-existing conditions should check with their doctor before riding.

Do riders need to wear safety harnesses?

Yes, all slingshot rides require riders to be buckled securely into body harnesses connected to the carrier. The harnesses have padded shoulder restraints and a waist strap to hold riders safely in place.

What is the slingshot record for speed?

The fastest speed ever recorded by a slingshot ride was by The Reverse Bungy in New Zealand, launching at speeds over 160 mph in 2002. Most rides today reach 75-100 mph during the catapult launch phase.