Python (Efteling)

Python is a double Loop Corkscrew Roller coaster in amusement park Efteling in the Netherlands.

Infobox roller coaster
name= Python


location= Efteling
section= Ruigrijk
type= Steel
type2=
type3=
status= Open Closed during “Winter Efteling”
opened= April 12,1981
manufacturer= Vekoma
designer= Arrow Dynamics
model= Double Loop Corkscrew
track=
lift= Chain lift
height= 95.14
drop= 72.18
length= 2460.63
speed= 52.8
inversions= 4
duration= 120 seconds
angle=
capacity= 1400
cost= € 9,4 million
acceleration=
gforce= 0- 5.5
restriction= 47.3
rcdb_number= 897

History and details

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 a lot of problems with the local community. Environmentalists tried to get the building permit withdrawn, neighbors feared for more problems with growing visitors’ numbers. Based upon the likely noise pollution, the highest court of public justice ordered the construction to be stopped. After some time the construction could recommence, but the legal problems continued for several more years.
With the extension of the opening hours since 1995 (up till 10 pm), once more the noise (+45 Decibel) of the aging coaster became a problem. Plans were subjected to the local municipality, describing an extension (length: 1600 m; height: +41 m; speed: 100 km/h) and complete renovation, which would bring the noise down substantially. Due to the high cost, the funds were allocated to the construction of a new coaster: Bird Rok.
Efteling hoped to get the night license for Python with some small renovations (new trains and Chain lift), but only with a change in the permit (48 Decibel) Python could remain open ‘till 10 pm. In 2005 the trains were replaced by Kumbak Coasters. .

Python debuted as the largest steel roller coaster of the European mainland.

The Ride

A Chain lift transport the train to a height of 29 meters, from where the train falls 22 meters into two consecutive Loops. After a sharp turn two Corkscrews follow. A small ascending Helix concludes the ride. .

References

* [http://wonder.superior-is.nl/python.htm Fansite]
* [http://www.efteling.nl Company information]
* [http://www.rcdb.com/id897.htm Rollercoaster Database]

Accident

On July 30 2007 the ride stopped at the lift. The ride was starting to be evacuated, while another employee was trying to pull the car back. The train, now unequal, started moving through the rest of the ride injuring one employee.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnPlwDle8KI Video of the accident]