Moment world's tallest rollercoaster is blown up in series of blasts

Dramatic footage shows the moment the world's tallest rollercoaster is destroyed in a series of explosions.

Kingda Ka, which was the fastest rollercoaster in the world, was demolished at the Six Flags Great Adventure theme park in New Jersey, US on Friday morning. An aerial video of the blast - which was watched by crowds of rollercoaster fans from afar - shows a large plume of smoke and dust emerging from the base before the 456ft ride topples to the ground. It marked a dramatic end to Kingda Ka's almost 20 years as a landmark at the theme park, which is visited by around 2.5 million people every year.

Ride enthusiasts had camped out days in advance near the theme park to catch a glimpse of the demolition - and for many it was a bittersweet occasion. Matt Kaiser, from the American Coaster Enthusiasts group, told local newspaper Asbury Park Press: "A lot of people are still emotionally attached to Kingda Ka. It’s a really big deal for it to come down."

A huge cleanup operation has now begun before the area is prepared for a new launch coaster, which is scheduled to open in 2026. Six Flags announced in November that Kingda Ka would be removed along with two other rides, Twister and Parachutes, to make space for the new attraction.

Brian Bacica, the park’s president, said at the time: "We understand that saying goodbye to beloved rides can be difficult, and we appreciate our guests’ passion. These changes are an important part of our growth and dedication to delivering exceptional new experiences." Relatively few details have been provided about the new ride, although spokespeople from the theme park have promised that it will 'break records', much like Kingda Ka before it.

After Friday's demolition, the title of tallest rollercoaster in the world will be passed down to another owned by Six Flags - although it is not open to riders a the moment. The Falcons Flight, a steel launched rollercoaster, is located in the Six Flags theme park in Saudi Arabia, and will become the world's tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster upon opening this year. It is 639.8 feet tall, which is taller than London's St Mary Axe skyscraper, more commonly known as the 'Gherkin'.