Canada’s Wonderland: “Flight Deck” to Become “The DareDeviler”

(eap) After Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan, Ontario, opened a new major attraction last year with the launch coaster “AlpenFury”, the amusement park, which belongs to the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, has now announced the refurbishment of its suspended looping coaster “Flight Deck” (Vekoma) as well as further novelties for the 2026 season.

© Image: Courtesy of Canada’s Wonderland

The ride, which originally opened in 1995 under the name “Top Gun” – at that time the park was still operated by Paramount Parks – is to be re-themed as part of the measures and will in future operate under the name “The DareDeviler”. The aim is to better integrate the attraction into the “Grande World Expo” themed area. In addition, new trains as well as targeted optimizations of the track are planned, which are intended to contribute to a more comfortable ride experience. The opening is scheduled for early summer 2026. “We are looking forward to breathing new life into one of our classic roller coasters,” said Heather Hill, Park Manager. “With ‘The DareDeviler’, we will deliver an even more intense experience with a smoother and more comfortable ride – while ‘AlpenFury’ will continue to provide record-breaking thrills that already excited guests last season and will do so again in 2026.”

In addition to the coaster refurbishment, visitors can look forward to a full events calendar as well as three new shows: “Retrospect” at the International Showplace will take audiences on a musical journey through time, while “The King’s Banquet” at the Canterbury Theatre combines circus elements such as fire juggling, sword swallowing and acrobatics. With “Watchtower”, a stunt show featuring trampoline acrobatics, tower dives and slapstick elements will also be introduced in Arthur’s Baye. Adjustments are also planned in the food & beverage sector: the confectionery shop on International Street has been redesigned and will in future operate under the name “The Sweet Spot”. The season opening is scheduled for May 3.

Meanwhile, operator Six Flags recently announced the completion of the sale of six of its US parks to EPR Properties. For the Canadian park Six Flags La Ronde in Montréal, the closing of the sale is currently expected in the second quarter of 2026, once the relevant closing conditions have been met and the required approvals have been obtained. ■