PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Dollywood has announced a delay in the opening of its highly anticipated Nightflight Expedition attraction, now targeting a mid-August debut instead of its original spring timeline.
Dollywood Parks and Resorts President Eugene Naughton said the project — described as the largest attraction in the park’s history — requires additional work before it is ready to welcome guests.
“I know when we originally set out our ambitious schedule… we’re going to be having to do a little bit more work to get the ride ready for operation,” Naughton said.
Crews continue active construction and testing, with teams focused on final adjustments to ensure safety and performance standards are met.
First unveiled in September, Nightflight Expedition is designed as a five-minute immersive experience divided into four major segments. Riders will soar over East Tennessee, navigate whitewater rapids, climb through the Great Smoky Mountains, and experience dramatic drops from cliffs and ledges.
The attraction is expected to combine traditional roller coaster thrills with unique elements, including interaction with more than 500,000 gallons of water.
Park officials say the delay will help deliver the full experience guests expect when the ride officially opens later this summer.
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Dollywood, Nightflight Expedition, ride delay, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee tourism, theme park news, Smoky Mountains attraction, Dollywood expansion, roller coaster, East Tennessee развлечments
