**Six Flags Retires Iconic Kingda Ka and Green Lantern for $1 Billion Park Overhaul**

In an unexpected shift, Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Township has officially shut down the iconic Kingda Ka roller coaster, bringing an end to an era that began on May 21, 2005. Known as the world’s tallest and fastest coaster, Kingda Ka has thrilled daredevils for years.

Last Sunday, the 456-foot-tall giant took its final riders, marking the close of a chapter that saw over 12 million rides. Matthew Kaiser, regional representative for the American Coaster Enthusiasts, noted that some people even flew in for a last chance to experience this record-breaking ride. Christian Jepsen of Wall Township shared that it was evident something was ending when he saw the atmosphere that day.

The park president, Brian Bacica, acknowledged the emotional difficulty in saying goodbye to beloved attractions but emphasized that these changes are aimed at growth and delivering exceptional new experiences. Six Flags is investing $1 billion into its parks, including new rides that will replace Kingda Ka, Green Lantern, Twister, Parachute Drop, and Sky Way.

In an unexpected twist, Kaiser, who once won a decommissioned launch cable from Kingda Ka in a 2021 park raffle, stated it would remain a treasured, unsellable souvenir. Reflecting on the day, he wished more fans had known in advance about Kingda Ka’s final run.

Anticipation is already building for what comes next. Six Flags has announced that a new boomerang-type ride named The Flash Vertical Velocity will debut next year. Additionally, a multi-world-record-breaking launch roller coaster is in the works and set to open in 2026.