Disney Skyliner Stalls as Hurricane Milton Touched Down, Stranding Guests

in Featured, Walt Disney World

Yellow, red, and green skyliner gondolas sail with Disney's Hollywood Studios in the far distance.

Credit: Disney

As Hurricane Milton approached the Orlando area, a concerning situation unfolded for Disney Guests using the Skyliner transportation system. The storm, classified as a category 5, was predicted to bring strong winds and heavy rain, prompting anxiety among those who found themselves stranded above the parks. Reports indicated that the Disney Skyliner was moving only intermittently, halting frequently and leaving guests in a precarious situation.

Families expressed rising levels of anxiety as they were left suspended mid-air, anxiously awaiting the system to stabilize. Many were trying to return to their resorts and seek shelter as the weather conditions worsened. While Disney had protocols in place for such incidents, guests on the Skyliner felt the urgency of their situation grow with every passing moment.

Timely responses from Disney’s emergency teams were crucial in this scenario. Although the mechanical issues appeared worrying, the management team worked diligently to address the situation and ensure the safety of all passengers involved. The efforts of these teams played an essential role in maintaining order and communication during a time of heightened fear.

Related: “Life Threatening” Storm Headed to Disney World, Parks Brace for Impact

Disney's Skyliner System
Credit: D23

Overview of the Disney Skyliner

The Disney Skyliner, introduced in 2019, has become a popular transportation option within the Walt Disney World Resort. This innovative gondola system connects multiple locations, including Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort, to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Skyliner offers a scenic ride and quick transportation, distinguishing itself from traditional buses and monorails.

However, the Skyliner system is not without its vulnerabilities. Being situated high above the ground exposes it to various weather-related disruptions. While the system can enhance guest experiences, it is subject to safety protocols during severe weather conditions. Historically, the Skyliner sometimes shuts down during inclement weather as a precautionary measure to safeguard guests, a fact that became increasingly relevant as Hurricane Milton’s winds began to intensify.

The unexpected mechanical interruption during a critical time left many guests at the mercy of the storm’s approach. While it is generally regarded as an efficient mode of transport, events like this remind guests of the inherent risks associated with traveling above the ground during extreme weather. One guest shared their report of the situation, saying:

Skyliner Right Now
Transportation
For some reason, the Skyliner is operational and people (including family) are stuck on it. They’re staying at the Caribbean and it was the only transportation back. They’re telling me it moves about 20 feet and stops.

Hopefully they get it moving soon and all the people down safely.

Skyliner Right Now
byu/Bolt82 inWaltDisneyWorld

Safety Protocols During Extreme Weather

Walt Disney World Resort has established comprehensive emergency plans to address extreme weather events. The safety of Disney Guests is always prioritized, particularly when severe conditions are expected. The collaboration with local emergency management teams has proven invaluable in maintaining high safety standards during crises.

In the case of Hurricane Milton, the Skyliner was designed to withstand winds up to 50 mph. This capacity underscores the safety protocols Disney has implemented to protect its guests. While the system can handle adverse conditions, the combination of machinery failure and incoming storms raised crucial questions about operational procedures.

A weather satellite image captures Hurricane Milton swirling over a landmass. The storm's eye is clearly visible at the center, encircled by vibrant red, orange, yellow, and green cloud patterns signaling intensity. Coastlines and geographical outlines are discernible in the background.
Credit: National Hurricane Center

Resolution and Guest Recovery

Fortunately, all guests were ultimately evacuated safely from the Skyliner cabins before Hurricane Milton fully impacted the area. Once the emergency protocols were activated, Disney’s efficiency in resolving the situation ensured that guests returned to the loading station without major incident. This outcome provided assurance to those who had felt frightened and anxious while stranded above the park.

Disney’s intent to enhance guest safety during extreme weather episodes will continue to be a priority. As weather patterns become more unpredictable, reviewing transportation protocols will be crucial in maintaining the high standards of safety that Disney Guests have come to expect. Enhancements to communication strategies and operational procedures are likely on the horizon as a direct response to recent events involving Hurricane Milton.

in Featured, Walt Disney World

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