Avatar Flight of Passage (what to know about the impressive 3D ride)

Flight of Passage is one of the most popular rides across Walt Disney World, especially at Animal Kingdom.

While wearing 3D glasses, guests board a simulator and are able to experience what it would be like to fly on a banshee over Pandora. It is truly an unbelievable attraction.

In this article

Quick Facts

Location: Animal Kingdom, Pandora
Height Requirement: 44 inches
Description: Unlike any other attraction at Walt Disney World, guests mount their own “virtual banshee” to soar above the Valley of Mo’ara.
When to Visit: Typically at opening/within the first hour.
Recommended: Yes. If you are tall enough and don’t tend to get sick on simulator-based rides, this is one of the most unique attractions at Disney World and is definitely worth a try.
Tip(s): If you are prone to motion sickness, try riding in the middle of your row. The seats here are notorious for not being accommodating of all body types. If you are worried, there is a “test seat” outside the queue that you can practice on. Be sure to lean in and slide your feet all the way forward as far as possible to maximize the seat and leg space.
Genie+, Individual Lightning Lane Selection, or Virtual Queue: You can purchase an Individual Lightning Lane selection for Flight of Passage, however, Gene+ is not available here.
Scheduled Refurbishments

Everything You Need To Know About Flight Of Passage

Location

You can find Flight of Passage in Pandora. Here’s the location on the map.

Height Requirement

The height requirement for Flight of Passage is 44 inches. We also have guides on other WDW thrill rides and height requirements for attractions at other theme parks and water parks.

Rider Switch & Single Rider

You can use Rider Switch for Flight of Passage. Rider Switch is Disney’s system that allows guests with small children to take turns riding bigger rides, while another person/people wait with the little one. There isn’t a Single Rider Line available.

History

Flight of Passage opened alongside the entire land of Pandora on May 27, 2017.

Did you know that Pandora — The World of Avatar was the largest addition in the history of Animal Kingdom? It’s a pretty remarkable land and if you’ve seen the movies, the details are on point.

The addition of Pandora was first announced in 2011. Then, at the 2013 D23 Expo, Imagineer Joe Rohde explained the premise behind the Flight of Passage attraction.

However, it wasn’t until the D23 Expo in 2015 that the actual name of the E-ticket attraction, aka Flight of Passage, was revealed.

When the ride was initially teased, it was compared to Soarin’ at Epcot. The two rides are similar in the sense of the simulator system used, but Flight of Passage is much more of a thrill ride.

Plus, you’re able to actually feel your virtual banshee breathing. The details are mind-blowing.

Queue

Flight of Passage’s queue is beyond elaborate. Not only do you feel like you’re actually in Pandora, but the landscaping and details are impressive.

Part of the line is outside, with another big portion being indoors. It’s quite a long queue, so prepare to walk. One of the best parts of the queue is the part that glows in the dark and when you see the massive Na’vi figure in the tank.

There’s a lot to see and take in, including the many sounds and the pre-show (pay attention to the “And, uh, fly!” scientist). There aren’t any interactive queue elements, other than the Play Disney Parks app.

Motion Sickness

Seeing as Flight of Passage is a simulator, there’s definitely a chance motion sickness will occur. The flying sensation feels very real, including the moment where your virtual banshee goes upside down. If you need it, we have a guide on motion sickness that’s filled with information and tips.

Ride Vehicles

First, there is a ride vehicle outside of the attraction for anyone to test before getting in line.

As for the ride vehicle itself, it’s similar to a motorcycle of sorts. You climb on as if you’re getting on a bike, you lean forward, press your chest forward, then you’re strapped in with restraints that will push on your back and calves. You will feel tight and secure.

There are multiple ride vehicles lined up side-by-side (close enough to touch the person beside you), but guests board their own vehicle.

Note: you also wear 3D glasses and there are cubbies behind you to store all personal belongings.

Is It Kid-Friendly?

Flight of Passage is a thrill ride. There’s a sensation of falling, going upside down, and the simulations feel extremely real.

You’re also strapped in onto individual seating, so if little ones get scared, you won’t be able to get out or move to comfort them. There is a ride vehicle outside of the attraction, which you may want to test before boarding.

We have a full guide on several other things that might scare little ones at WDW.

PhotoPass/On-Ride Photos

Your photo isn’t taken on Flight of Passage.

If you want more information on this, be sure to check out our PhotoPass and how Memory Maker works guides.

Video

Watching a video of Flight of Passage is vastly different than experiencing it in real life. But, if you want to get a feel for how the ride operates and what you’ll see, here you go.

Other Fun Details

Easter Eggs: After passing through the caves in the beginning of the queue and before the bioluminescent area, pay attention to the walls and see if you can spot the following: “JC Shoring 08.016.54.” This stands for James Cameron’s name and his birthday, Aug. 16, 1954.
Play Disney Parks: Yes. This free mobile app is only available for select attractions and allows guests to pass the time as they play games, trivia, and earn achievements along the way.
Movie Connections: Flight of Passage (and the entire land of Pandora) was inspired by James Cameron’s 2009 film Avatar.