Pursuit announces FlyOver Iceland opening date

Pursuit has announced a July 1, 2019 opening date for its highly anticipated FlyOver Iceland flight ride experience. Modeled after Pursuit’s successful FlyOver Canada attraction, FlyOver Iceland will provide guests with an exhilarating flight simulation over some of the island’s most iconic natural wonders, hard-to-reach locations and picturesque scenery.

The attraction uses the I-ride Panoramic Flight Simulator Attraction developed by Vekoma Rides and Brogent Technology. The Pursuit FlyOver Iceland flight ride utilizes a moving platform with six degrees of motion, multi-sensory special effects and a 20 meter (66 foot) spherical screen that provides guests with an unparalleled flight across iconic locations and natural landscapes. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable visceral experience. Before the main show, the attraction will feature a two-part pre-ride show that explores the roles of nature, time and humankind on this ancient island while featuring volcanoes, glaciers, trolls and more. These unique multi-sensory spaces, designed by multimedia and design studio Moment Factory, will form an introductory experience to build anticipation and complement the overall FlyOver experience.

FlyOver Iceland will be the first flight ride experience in Iceland with its location situated along the historic harbor in Reykjavík’s popular Grandi Harbour District, just minutes from downtown. This summer’s launch will mark the first FlyOver attraction outside North America for the adventure travel brand.

The filming of FlyOver Iceland brought together a talented team of creative professionals from Iceland and around the world. Together, they captured the far reaches of the island, across the diverse and dramatic Iceland seasons resulting in an immersive and visually impressive flight ride experience.

“It has been an incredible journey to see the FlyOver Iceland experience evolve from its conceptual infancy to where we are today,” begins Agnes Gunnarsdóttir, General Manager, FlyOver Iceland. “From the development of a brand new building uniquely located along Reykjavik’s historic harbor, to the creative vision of the film’s production team, we are excited to unveil our unique story of Iceland told through the lens of flight.”

Through the lens of celebrated Iceland architect Páll Hjaltason of Plús Arkitektar, the landmark building has been constructed to reflect some of the same industrial influences that form the hallmark of Scandinavian architecture, while carefully observing the industrial and modern feel of the neighborhood. The building’s design includes standout features like the illuminated, cylindrical theatre, while the interior space will offer a café and retail experience in addition to the flight ride and pre-show attractions. The new space will provide a first-of-its-kind venue for guests to experience the authentic cultural experience.

Operated by Pursuit through Iceland’s Esja Attractions ehf (“Esja”), the attraction is expected to employ upwards of 45 local positions during the peak summer season.