Kingda Ka , followed by a drop of and spanning over a track by the end of the ride. Plans to build Kingda Ka were announced on September 10, 2003, at an event held for roller coaster enthusiasts and the media. The event revealed the park's goal to build "the tallest and fastest roller coaster on earth", reaching and accelerating up to in 3.5 seconds. On January 13, 2005, Kingda Ka's tower construction was completed, and on May 21, 2005, the ride opened to the public. Kingda Ka became the "tallest" and "fastest" roller coaster in the world, taking both world records
Kingda Ka brake fins in the launch section keep fast-moving trains from returning all the way back to the station during failed attempts to complete the tophat element. The incident caused an unexpected stress on a number of fins, bending them forward. Not all required replacement, but there were more damaged brake fins than Six Flags had replacements for. Extra brake fins had to be ordered from the manufacturer, Intamin in Switzerland, and the ride had to undergo thorough testing following the repair. Kingda Ka reopened on August 4. Kingda Ka was struck by lightning in May 2009 and suffered serious damage.