World's Tallest Roller Coaster: Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure
Kingda Ka: The Undisputed Height Champion
Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure (Jackson, NJ) has held the world's tallest roller coaster record since its 2005 debut.
Record-Breaking Stats
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Height | 456 ft (139 m) |
| Max Speed | 128 mph (206 km/h) in 3.5 seconds |
| Track Length | 3,118 ft (950 m) |
| Duration | ~28 seconds (launch + top hat) |
| Type | Steel launched strata coaster (Intamin) |
| Designer | Werner Stengel (Stengel Engineering) |
The Experience
- Hydraulic launch (0–128 mph in 3.5 s) – 1.5 Gs acceleration.
- 90° ascent up the 456-ft top hat.
- Weightless crest – 90° twist at apex.
- 90° descent – 270° spiral back to ground.
- Magnetic brakes – smooth stop.
Context & Rivals
- Top Thrill Dragster (Cedar Point, 420 ft) – predecessor, same layout, slightly shorter.
- Red Force (Ferrari Land, Spain, 367 ft) – European record.
- Orion (Kings Island, 287 ft) – tallest traditional lift-hill coaster.
Rider Requirements
- Height: 54" (137 cm) minimum.
- No loose articles (lockers provided).
- High intensity—heart/back/neck conditions excluded.
Note: Kingda Ka frequently closes for wind, rain, or maintenance. Check park app before queuing.
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