In a heart-pounding incident at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka on December 14, a roller coaster named “The Flying Dinosaur” left 32 passengers suspended in mid-air after making an emergency stop at one of its highest points. While initial reports suggested that riders were hanging upside down, further clarification revealed that passengers were in a prone position throughout the ordeal. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all passengers were safely evacuated from the roller coaster, according to a report by NHK News.
The Flying Dinosaur Roller Coaster
“The Flying Dinosaur” is a Jurassic Park-inspired roller coaster at Universal Studios Japan, designed to simulate the motions of a flying dinosaur named Pteranodon. Passengers experience the ride with their faces and bodies facing downwards, creating an exhilarating and immersive experience. The roller coaster also includes 360-degree spins to enhance the thrill.
Emergency Stop and Evacuation
The roller coaster, carrying 32 passengers at full capacity, made an emergency stop near its summit, approximately 40 meters above the ground. The incident occurred around 10 am Singapore time, causing riders to be suspended in mid-air. Video footage circulating on social media platforms captured the tense moments as staff worked to evacuate passengers one by one using the fire escape route located alongside the roller coaster rails.
Safety Measures and Evacuation Success
Despite the alarming situation, Universal Studios Japan assured that the ride’s safety features functioned as intended. Passengers were led to safety without any reported injuries. The evacuation process, which began shortly after the emergency stop, was successfully completed by 10:40 am Singapore time. Staff members demonstrated efficiency and expertise in guiding passengers to safety.
Resumption of Operations and Past Incidents
After thorough inspections and addressing the detected abnormality, “The Flying Dinosaur” roller coaster resumed operations around 11:30 am Singapore time, approximately 90 minutes after the emergency stop. This incident, however, is not the first of its kind for this ride. In May 2018, the same roller coaster experienced a sudden stop, raising questions about the ride’s reliability.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigations
Universal Studios Japan informed TBS News that the roller coaster’s automatic stop was triggered when sensors detected an abnormality. Despite this explanation, the exact cause of the incident remains unknown, emphasizing the need for comprehensive investigations to ensure the safety of future rides. The park management is expected to conduct a thorough review of the roller coaster’s systems and implement any necessary enhancements.
こんなとこでとまられたら。。。😰#フライングダイナソー pic.twitter.com/c7PaVsShKo
— やまぴー@山下夫婦🥜 (@BgmBike) December 14, 2023