Afterburn

Afterburn is one of the standout attractions at Carowinds, a theme park located on the border of North and South Carolina. Known for its adrenaline-pumping thrills and intense inversions, Afterburn has been a crowd favorite since its debut in 1999. This steel inverted coaster, designed by Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M), provides riders with a high-speed, smooth, and heart-pounding experience. With its aviation-inspired theme, unique elements, and reputation for delivering a thrilling ride, Afterburn continues to be a staple of Carowinds' ride lineup.

History and Theme

Originally named Top Gun: The Jet Coaster, Afterburn was introduced as part of the park’s expansion under Paramount ownership, inspired by the iconic 1986 movie Top Gun. In 2008, after Cedar Fair purchased Carowinds, the coaster was rebranded as Afterburn, though it retained much of its original theming, with a military-jet style and fighter plane motifs. This change marked a shift away from Paramount’s movie-based themes, but the ride’s high-octane feel remains intact.

Design and Ride Experience

Afterburn is a classic B&M inverted coaster, where riders are suspended below the track, giving them a unique perspective as they navigate through each inversion and turn. The coaster stands at a height of 113 feet, reaches speeds of up to 62 miles per hour, and covers a track length of 2,956 feet. The ride’s layout incorporates a series of thrilling inversions, including a vertical loop, an Immelmann (a half-loop followed by a half-twist), a zero-gravity roll, and a corkscrew, providing a smooth yet exhilarating ride experience.

The coaster's intense pacing and unique elements make it one of the best B&M inverts in the world. After the initial drop, which is a gut-wrenching 102-foot plunge, the train enters the vertical loop, which is followed by a rapid succession of elements. The zero-g roll, one of the signature elements, gives riders a floating sensation, while the corkscrew and the high-speed helix finale provide a satisfying end to the adventure.

The Ride Layout

1. Lift Hill and Drop: After climbing the 113-foot lift hill, riders are treated to a panoramic view of the park before plunging down the steep initial drop.
2. Vertical Loop: The first inversion is a 98-foot vertical loop that twists riders upside down.
3. Immelmann: Afterburn's Immelmann inversion is a thrilling combination of a half-loop and a half-twist, which sends the train into a corkscrew position.
4. Zero-G Roll: One of the highlights of the ride, the zero-g roll gives riders a brief moment of weightlessness.
5. Batwing: This unique double inversion begins with a downward half-corkscrew and is followed immediately by an upward half-corkscrew, creating a thrilling sequence.
6. Corkscrew: The corkscrew inversion is a final twist that flips the riders 360 degrees, adding to the ride's intense action.
7. Helix: The high-speed helix just before the brake run adds lateral forces and a powerful finish to the ride.

Ride Statistics and Fun Facts

• Height: 113 feet
• Track Length: 2,956 feet
• Top Speed: 62 miles per hour
• Duration: Approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds
• Inversions: 6 (Vertical Loop, Immelmann, Zero-G Roll, Batwing [Double], Corkscrew)
• Capacity: Around 1,500 riders per hour
• Manufacturer: Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M)
• Year Opened: 1999
• Type: Inverted Steel Coaster

One interesting fact about Afterburn is its "batwing" element, which is unique to this coaster and rarely found on other B&M inverted models. Riders often experience a feeling of being launched out of their seats due to the rapid changes in direction and intense g-forces.

Reception and Legacy

Since its opening, Afterburn has consistently ranked among enthusiasts' favorite inverted coasters. It’s praised for its smoothness, intense layout, and the sensation of flight it provides. Even after more than two decades of operation, it holds its own against newer attractions, maintaining its status as a must-ride coaster at Carowinds.

The coaster’s reputation extends beyond Carowinds, as it is often included in coaster enthusiasts’ top lists for its class. It offers a near-perfect blend of intensity, smoothness, and speed, which has helped it stand the test of time.

Afterburn is a prime example of why Bolliger & Mabillard are considered masters in the world of roller coaster design. Combining elements of thrill, speed, and smooth execution, this ride delivers an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers. Whether you’re a die-hard coaster enthusiast or a casual park-goer looking for a heart-pounding experience, Afterburn is a must-ride attraction when visiting Carowinds.

With its thrilling inversions, exciting layout, and aviation-inspired theme, Afterburn continues to soar high as one of the best inverted coasters in the United States.