That’s a video published to TikTok by user @who.s_abigail of the Texas Flyer at Pleasure Pier at a standstill. “Attention riders, at this time we are experiencing minor technical difficulties,” voiced an automated announcement. “Please remain seated in an upright position until the ride is fully on the ground.”
So, the Texas Flyer, which takes riders to about 230 feet above sea level while rotating them for a panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico, stopped mid-ride this weekend at Pleasure Pier, mere days after the big Iron Shark incident. The user who posted the TikTok video has not yet responded to Chron’s request for comment and more information, but Landry’s Inc., which owns Pleasure Pier, gave a full statement on the situation. Turns out, according to Landry’s COO Terry Turner, the stoppage was precautionary.
“This ride is equipped with wind sensors that automatically adjust operations to protect guests during wind gusts and worked exactly as designed,” Turner wrote in his statement. “Upon detection of excess wind, the ride safely paused and it is our safety protocol to bring the swings down, remove passengers, re-inspect the ride, rum several test cycles before we re-board with riders.”
Turner continued that the Texas Flyer “has been in continuous operation without any mechanical issues whatsoever.” More, because eyes have been on Pleasure Pier lately, Turner added “we want to be clear: our rides are safe, our inspections are current, and the well-being of our guests is always our first and top priority.”
Last week, a sensor failed in the Iron Shark, causing the emergency stop feature to activate. Turner told Chron on Friday the roller coaster’s emergency stop feature worked as designed, and that “a thorough inspection of the ride” was underway.