| Python | |
| Location | Efteling |
|---|---|
| Park section | Ruigrijk |
| Status | Open Closed during “Winter Efteling” |
| Opened | April 12, 1981 |
| Cost | € 9,4 million |
| Type | Steel |
| Manufacturer | Vekoma |
| Designer | Arrow Dynamics |
| Model | Double Loop Corkscrew |
| Lift/launch system | Chain lift |
| Height | 95.14 ft (29.00 m) |
| Drop | 72.18 ft (22.00 m) |
| Length | 2,460.63 ft (750.00 m) |
| Max speed | 52.8 mph (85.0 km/h) |
| Inversions | 4 |
| Duration | 120 seconds |
| Capacity | 1400 riders per hour |
| Max G force | 0- 5.5 |
| Height restriction | 3 ft 11 in (119 cm) |
| Trains | 2 trains with 7 cars. Riders are arranged 2 across in 2 rows for a total of 28 riders per train. |
| Python at RCDB | |
| Pictures of Python at RCDB | |
| Amusement Parks Portal | |
Python is a double-loop Corkscrew roller coaster in the Efteling amusement park in the Netherlands. When it started operation, it was the largest steel roller coaster on the European mainland.
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With Python, Efteling started the implementation of a new strategy: development from a fairy-tale forest into an all-round amusement park. This change led to many problems with the local community. Environmentalists tried to get the building permit withdrawn, and the park's neighbors feared more problems arising from growing visitor numbers. Because of the likely noise pollution, the highest court of public justice ordered the construction to be stopped. After some time, construction could recommence, but legal problems continued for several more years.
In 1995, when operating hours were extended until 10 pm, the coaster's 45-decibel noise level became a problem once more. Plans were submitted to the local municipality, describing an extension and complete renovation of the coaster, which would reduce the noise substantially. Due to the high cost, the funds were allocated to the construction of a new coaster, Bird Rok.
Efteling hoped to get a night license for Python with some small renovations (new trains and a chain lift), but only with a change in the permit could Python remain open until 10 pm.
In 2005 the trains were replaced by Kumbak Coasters designed by Karel Willemen and in December 2011 with Vekoma MK1212 trains.[1]
On July 30, 2007, the ride became stuck at the top of the lift. One employee started to evacuate the train while another tried to pull the car back. The train, now unequally balanced, started moving and continued through the rest of the ride, injuring one employee. Passengers remaining on the train were quick to pull down their safety bars, preventing further injuries.