Thunderbird, Steel roller coaster in Santa Claus, Indiana, US.
Thunderbird is a steel roller coaster at Holiday World that launches riders to about 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour) in 3.5 seconds before sending them through multiple inversions. The track features a 140-foot (43-meter) Immelmann loop and other elements that create unique sensations throughout the ride.
The coaster debuted in 2015 as America's first launched wing coaster, representing a technological breakthrough for the amusement park industry. This addition marked the park's largest capital expansion project to date.
The name draws from Native American folklore, symbolizing protection and strength through a legendary bird. Visitors notice this connection woven into the park's storytelling and theming throughout the experience.
Riders must be between roughly 52 and 78 inches (132–198 centimeters) tall and should store loose items in designated areas before boarding. Different seat positions offer varied experiences, so trying multiple spots on different visits can enhance your overall enjoyment.
The coaster runs on two massive flywheel assemblies weighing about 24,000 pounds each, housed in a building called Will Power. These machines generate roughly 2.5 megawatts of power for each launch sequence, making the start feel particularly forceful and smooth.
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