Hypersonic XLC

Hypersonic XLC was a roller coaster located at Kings Dominion in Doswell, Virginia. Hypersonic was the first compressed air launch coaster in the world. In 2007, Hypersonic XLC was closed and later dismantled. The platform is all that remains at the ride's former location between the Hurler and Grizzly roller coasters.

Hypersonic was built by S&S Worldwide, a company specializing in air-powered rides such as Skyhawk and Power Tower, both located at Cedar Point. Hypersonic was S&S Worldwide's actual prototype for an air-launched coaster, called Thrust Air 2000. It was reconstructed at Kings Dominion after being moved from its original location in Utah. S&S Worldwide also greatly modified the section following the 90° drop to accommodate Kings Dominion's landscape and to properly bank the turn. Hypersonic XLC suffered extended downtime, and was closed for nearly three months at the beginning of Kings Dominion's 2002 season.

Read more about Hypersonic XLC:  The Ride, The Launch System, Current Status