Nighthawk, Steel flying roller coaster at Carowinds amusement park, South Carolina
Nighthawk is a steel roller coaster at Carowinds amusement park in South Carolina that covers 2,766 feet of track, rises to 115 feet, and reaches speeds of 51 miles per hour (82 km/h). The layout includes five inversions and allows passengers to ride in a face-down position throughout the experience.
The installation originally opened in California in 2000 under the name Stealth and operated there for four years. In March 2004, it began operating at its current location in North Carolina after being relocated.
The installation has been renamed three times throughout its existence, with each name reflecting the ownership at the time. From 2004 to 2007, it featured elements inspired by the Star Trek universe before that theme was removed.
The ride operates with two trains that accommodate 24 people each, allowing for continuous operation during open hours. Because of the flying position, riders should be aware that the seating arrangement is more demanding than in traditional roller coasters.
Riders board in a reclined position before the cars rotate into the flying stance during the ride, carrying them face-down through the course. This mechanism sets the type apart from most other roller coasters, where passengers remain seated upright.
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