Six Flags Acquires ArieForce One from Fun Spot America
“ArieForce One” ranks among the best-known RMC coasters and is set to reopen at a Six Flags location in the coming years. | Photo: Courtesy of American Coaster Enthusiasts
(eap) Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced today that it has acquired “ArieForce One”, a popular roller coaster among coaster enthusiasts. Since Fun Spot America Atlanta in Fayetteville, Georgia, closed in early August this year, fans had already been speculating online about whether the coaster might be acquired – and, if so, by which park. However, the question of where the ride will ultimately be relocated remains unanswered: Six Flags has only announced that ArieForce One will be introduced at one of the operator group’s parks during the 2028-2029 operating seasons. Its exact future location will be announced at a later date.
What is already certain is that the attraction will retain its name. It was given to the roller coaster, which opened in March 2023, in honor of John Arie Sr., founder of Fun Spot America. Built by Rocky Mountain Construction, the steel coaster features four inversions and several intense airtime moments along approx. 3,400 feet (more than one kilometer) of track.
Photo: Courtesy of American Coaster Enthusiasts
“From the moment ArieForce One closed, we knew how much this coaster meant to the enthusiast community and to guests who traveled from around the world to experience it,” said Mark Pauls, chief operating officer of Six Flags. “This is a ride that consistently generated excitement, acclaim and passionate fan support. We are thrilled to preserve its legacy, invest in its future and bring this extraordinary attraction to a new generation of guests […].”
John Arie Jr., CEO of Fun Spot America, added: “When we built ArieForce One, we wanted to create something truly special. Something that would put Fun Spot America on the map with coaster enthusiasts and families around the world and create memories that would last a lifetime. Seeing ArieForce One preserved and finding a new home with Six Flags means a great deal to me and my family. Its story isn’t ending, it’s beginning a new chapter, and we are excited that future generations will get to experience ArieForce One.” While the Georgia location, which Fun Spot America acquired in 2017, has permanently closed, guests can continue to visit the family-owned company’s two other parks in Orlando and Kissimmee, Florida.
The Six Flags portfolio comprises more than 250 roller coasters, including some of North America’s best-known rides such as “Fury 325”, “Top Thrill 2” and “Millennium Force”. Just yesterday, Six Flags also announced a partnership with California-based fintech company Upgrade. Its “Flex Pay” solution allows eligible guests to pay for qualifying online purchases of USD 49 or more in fixed monthly installments. Season passes, for example, can therefore be purchased and used once activated while payments are spread over a longer period. ■
