Nighthawk

Nighthawk, the popular flying coaster at Carowinds amusement park, offers visitors a unique thrill-ride experience. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, this ride is a staple attraction for adrenaline enthusiasts and theme park lovers. The coaster, known for its bird-like flight sensation, allows riders to soar through the skies in a dynamic and exhilarating way. With twists, loops, and intense inversions, Nighthawk has secured its place as one of the most beloved rides at Carowinds since its debut.

History and Background

Nighthawk was originally built as a prototype coaster by the Vekoma company and debuted under a different name. First introduced in 2000 as "Stealth" at California’s Great America, it was North America's first flying coaster, designed to simulate the experience of flight. Due to its popularity and innovative design, the ride was later relocated to Carowinds in 2004 and rebranded as "BORG Assimilator," themed after the Borg aliens from the Star Trek franchise.

In 2008, Carowinds opted for a re-theming of the coaster to better align with the park’s aesthetics. The ride was renamed Nighthawk, adopting a sleek, avian theme that resonates with its flight-style layout. Its vibrant yellow and blue tracks, along with the bird-themed signage and imagery, have made it an iconic landmark within the park.

Ride Experience

Nighthawk’s unique seating arrangement is what sets it apart from other roller coasters. Riders board the train in a sitting position but are then rotated backward until they are lying face-up. As the train dispatches and ascends the lift hill, it gradually flips so that riders face the ground, creating a flying sensation.

The ride starts with a slow climb up a 115-foot hill, followed by a sharp drop into a butterfly inversion. From this point, the real adventure begins. Riders experience a series of heart-pounding maneuvers, including corkscrews, barrel rolls, and zero-G rolls, all while suspended in a face-down flying position. The dynamic movements simulate the sensation of gliding, diving, and swooping through the air, making riders feel as if they are navigating the skies like a bird of prey.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Steel Flying Coaster
• Manufacturer: Vekoma
• Height: 115 feet
• Length: 2,766 feet
• Top Speed: 51 mph
• Inversions: 5
• Ride Duration: Approximately 2 minutes 35 seconds
• Capacity: 24 riders per train
• Height Requirement: 54 inches

Main Features

1. Butterfly Loop: Nighthawk’s signature element, which combines two opposing loops into one thrilling maneuver.
2. Double Corkscrews: These rapid twists flip riders upside-down twice in quick succession.
3. Pretzel Loop: An intense inversion where the train dips into a loop, causing a moment of high G-forces.
4. Zero-G Roll: This smooth inversion gives riders the sensation of weightlessness, further enhancing the flying experience.

Popularity and Reception

Nighthawk’s innovative design and intense experience have made it a favorite among thrill-seekers visiting Carowinds. However, due to its complex loading and seating configuration, the ride is known for having longer wait times compared to other attractions in the park. Despite this, its unique nature as a flying coaster makes it a must-ride for both first-time visitors and returning fans.

Over the years, Nighthawk has garnered mixed reviews. While many riders praise the ride for its one-of-a-kind sensation and breathtaking views, others find the face-down position and inversions a bit disorienting. Regardless, Nighthawk remains an essential part of Carowinds' ride lineup, continuing to draw large crowds and leaving riders with a memorable, heart-pounding experience.

Fun Facts

• Nighthawk was the first coaster of its kind in North America and is still one of the few flying coasters in the United States.
• The ride’s track layout is identical to that of Batwing at Six Flags America and Firehawk at Kings Island (before it was dismantled in 2018).
• Nighthawk’s bright color scheme was chosen to contrast with its bird-themed name and create a visually striking appearance within the park.
• The face-down flying position has been compared to Superman-style coasters, although Nighthawk’s design pre-dates many of those attractions.

Tips for Riding Nighthawk

1. Ride Early or Late: To avoid long wait times, head to Nighthawk either at the start or end of the day.
2. Hydrate: The ride can be intense, and the face-down position may cause disorientation. Stay hydrated to minimize any discomfort.
3. Secure Loose Articles: Due to the orientation of the seating, be sure to secure all loose items before boarding.
4. Try the Front Row: For the best flying experience, try to get a seat in the front row, where the view is completely unobstructed.

Nighthawk at Carowinds is more than just a roller coaster—it’s an aerial adventure that pushes the boundaries of traditional thrill rides. With its unique flying position, dynamic layout, and thrilling inversions, Nighthawk continues to offer visitors a high-flying experience that few other rides can match. If you’re visiting Carowinds and looking for a roller coaster that will make you feel like you’re soaring through the skies, Nighthawk is a must-ride attraction that should be at the top of your list.