Welcome, Jeff!
Thank you for bringing your important concern to our planDisney team. It means the world to us that you trust and value our authentic advice to ask such a personal question. I’m happy to help you know what to expect and hopefully give you some peace of mind for your comfort on all types of attractions at the Walt Disney World Resort. Your special Disney memories will be of acceptance, togetherness, and pure joy - not those of disappointment or feeling self-conscious. Inclusion is a core value at all Disney Parks and I assure you that you’re going to feel respected and taken care of no matter the situation.
It is concerning to read some reviews or tantalizing headlines online about attractions where some Guests may not be able to enjoy an experience due to their physical size. This can make us feel vulnerable and scared that we may get to that thrilling moment to board an attraction and face the potential embarrassment of not being able to ride. There are a few things I can share to help ease this worry, though I’m sure it won’t completely erase it. First, please know that any limitations are due to the extreme challenges of the incredible Imagineers making the experience safe for everyone of all appropriate ages and sizes.
Some attractions which offer an
Individual Lightning Lane purchase receiving such reviews include
Avatar: Flight of Passage and the soon-to-open
TRON Lightcycle / Run due to their unique ride restraints and position that Guests are in for the experiences. Both attractions have test vehicles outside the entrance of the queue, often with a nearby Cast Member. For Avatar: Flight of Passage, you can place your rib cage firmly at the front restraint and sit all the way forward before then placing your feet as far forward as possible for the backrest to click into place. A Cast Member in the loading room for this attraction can help secure this for you if it’s close. I haven’t experienced TRON Lightcycle / Run but I’ve read the concerns are mostly in leg positioning; be sure to push your foot backwards to be parallel to the rear wheel of the lightcycle and then lean forward. There are accessible seats at the back of this attraction intended for those requiring transfer from a wheelchair that may also be able to accommodate you seated. Whether there is a test vehicle for the attraction of concern or not, please speak with a Cast Member at the entrance and they will be able to address your questions directly.
I know you may purchase an Individual Lightning Lane for these attractions at a set time before you’re able to test ride vehicles in person and make any adjustments, Jeff. Attraction Cast Members make the final call for Guest safety, so should they deem you unable to ride they will escort you and hopefully be very clear in the next steps to resolve the situation for your purchase – typically either an exchange or refund. If you don’t immediately understand what happens to your purchase, please see the amazing Guest Experience Team for a resolution. You can find them under blue umbrellas throughout the theme parks. On my last trip, we had purchased an Individual Lightning Lane for an attraction that we weren't able to experience due to it being down and then a lengthy wait; I received a refund quickly by speaking with this team. I find they always treat any questions or recovery situations with respect and patience.
You’re as welcome as can be at the Walt Disney World Resort and you are going to have an amazing vacation!
YOU are the magic,
Amy