Firehawk closes gates
ON FIRE. From a business standpoint, the Firehawk requires too much maintenance due to its unconventional stature and low ride capacity. Looking past these reasons, its thrilling twists have established its credibility as an enjoyable and breathtaking experience. “The Firehawk has given over 6.7 million rides since opening at Kings Island in 2007. Its record year was 2014 when 624,016 rides were given,” said Don Helbig, blogger for the Kings Island website.
On Oct. 28, 2018, the Firehawk, a beloved roller coaster featured in the Kings Island amusement park, will be shut down and decommissioned.
The attraction was first opened in Kings Island on May 26, 2007, but was first constructed and opened as a part of the Six Flags World Adventure Resort in 2001.
After withstanding eleven years of use and operation, the final few rides will be given on the final weekend of the Halloween Haunt and The Great Pumpkin Fest, which is Oct. 26-28.
The ride was praised for the speedy, smooth, and swift movement that it gave passengers.
“While good for future expansion, I am really sad to see the ride go as it is a rare ride. In fact, only three of its kind and model have ever been produced. At the same time though, I’m excited to see what KI has in store for 2019,” said Carson Greene, 9.
Kings Island has yet to inform followers about where the Firehawk will be transported or what will be taking its place.
Speculators are wondering if the new ride will follow the new spooky and scary trend set in place by rides like The Banshee and Mystic Timbers, or if the new coaster will yield a different tone or vibe.
“I think it’s unfortunate because the Firehawk is such a smooth and frivolous ride. It stinks that they couldn’t have torn down something older or unused like the vortex or the racer,” said Alex Lensges, 9.
Source:
https://www.visitkingsisland.com/blog/2018/september/r.i.p.-firehawk
