The iconic Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster in New York City has been shut down indefinitely after it came to a halt mid-ride last week. Since opening on June 26, 1927, the Coney Island Cyclone has been a staple of the amusement district and remains one of Luna Park’s most beloved landmarks. Located at the corner of Surf Avenue and West 10th Street, the Cyclone reaches speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, carries 24 passengers, and spans a total track length of 2,640 feet.
The Cyclone, the world’s second-steepest wooden roller coaster, offers an adrenaline-pumping 85-foot drop at nearly a 60-degree angle. With exhilarating twists, 27 elevation changes, and a winding track, this legendary coaster remains a timeless classic. After more than 90 years, the Cyclone continues to thrill riders. Featured in major films, music videos, and artworks, it has become a cultural phenomenon and remains one of Brooklyn’s most iconic attractions.
The 97-year-old wooden coaster at Luna Park was climbing on Thursday when operators halted the ride due to a damaged chain sprocket in the motor room. The ride was safely stopped, and all passengers were removed without injury, according to New York City’s Department of Buildings.
Inspectors from the Department of Buildings were on-site Friday and issued violations to Luna Park’s owners for the damaged equipment and for not promptly reporting the incident to the department.
Luna Park posted a closure for maintenance on their website earlier today reading:
Cyclone closed for routine maintenance
Monday, August 26, 2024
At Luna Park in Coney Island, safety is our number one priority and ride maintenance, and thorough testing happens daily before Luna Park opens and throughout the day as necessary. The Coney Island Cyclone is a 97-year-old roller coaster that is meticulously maintained and tested daily. NYC’s Department of Buildings (DOB) inspected and cleared the ride to open on August 21, 2024. The Coney Island Cyclone is temporarily closed due to a mechanical problem that developed on August 22, 2024, and is currently undergoing repairs. We will reopen the Cyclone roller coaster when the repair is complete and the ride passes its DOB inspection.