There has been no official announcement, but it appears Dollywood is signaling that their much anticipated new attraction NightFlight Expedition is slightly delayed. Previous advertisements from the park had said “Spring 2026” which is now just “2026”. This makes sense as spring is essentially over no matter if you draw the line at Memorial Day or June 21st. The park recently released a video showing NightFlight’s construction progress and mentioned the last piece of track had just been placed. Given that, it would be reasonable to expect at least an additional 30-90 days for testing, inspection and permitting.
This ride is one of the first of its type known as a “rocking boat” by Mack. It incorporates aspects of a flying simulator ride, roller coaster, boat ride and dark ride together all indoors. This ride system seems complex and it will probably take some time to work the bugs out given this is supposed to be a 5.5 minute ride. No doubt it will all be worth it and a year from now the delay will likely be forgotten. I had a chance to see the ride vehicles up close at IAAPA and so looking forward to riding this revolutionary ride soon!
BGT Safari 