Finnegan’s Flyer sends riders over the edge

A high-flying thrill ride has debuted at Virginia’s Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Finnegan’s Flyer, an exhilarating Screamin’ Swing from S&S – Sansei Technologies is located in the park’s Ireland village adjacent the park’s Loch Ness Monster roller coaster.

Finnegan’s Flyer takes 32 riders to staggering heights of more than 80 feet (24 m), with speeds reaching 45 mph (72 kph). Two pendulum-like arms fly progressively higher over the park with each swing, providing incredible aerial views of the park. The dueling arms swing back-and-forth, the ground plummeting into view with each swing.

“Once again Busch Gardens has designed a ride that pushes the thrill ride envelope,” said Kevin Lembke, park president at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA. “We’re committed to providing new and unique experiences year after year. We design these rides for our fans and strive to make each one a unique experience you can only get at Busch Gardens.”

“We love the name and how it naturally fits into our Ireland village. It visually grabs your attention,” said Suzy Cheely, senior leader of design and engineering at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA. “This ride is huge. The swings go back and forth, increasing in height, until they go beyond 90º. As you swing back and forth, you catch some airtime, which is similar to a roller coaster. That may be unexpected, so people may be getting more of a thrill than they think.”