Six Flags Great America is gearing up to let riders fly through the sky on the Gurnee park's latest roller coaster installment, X Flight.
The new thrill ride includes 3,000 feet of track, a 12-story plunge and a zero-g roll. At one point it speeds straight toward a structure before making a last-minute vertical flip to fit through a keyhole cut-out.
Crews this week added the highest point to the wing coaster's 12-story drop, preparing for a May 2012 unveiling. Riders will sit in pairs on either side of a main track with their feet dangling. Per the theme, rides will "fly" top-speed toward a structure before making a last-minute vertical flip.
X Flight is the theme park's new addition. It was designed by the Swiss manufacturer that created Raging Bull, Superman and Batman rides at the park.