The latest addition top the growing number of metal downhill roller coasters and zip wires served by ski lifts at ski resorts in Europe is the new First Flyer at Grindelwald, Switzerland, which the resort believes is the first of its kind in Europe.

The First Flyer gives four people the chance to simultaneously yet independently, glide through the air on a length of cable about 800 metres long, at speeds of up to 84km/h and hanging up to 45m (160 feet) above the ground.

In effect the construction is four parallel zip wires, which link the starting and finishing platforms without supporting masts. Guests sit in a special harness which is very similar to that used for paragliding. The harness is attached to a safe roller mechanism on the wire.

The facility is just as suitable for use in winter as in summer and makes a spectacular addition to the other mountain activities on offer. The First Flyer is suitable for people of all ages. It will fascinate children and adults and the fact that four people can use the First Flyer should make it popular as a family and group experience.

This kind of facility is currently found only in the USA (Park City, Snowbird, Utah Olympic Park, Icy Strait Point, Wildcat and Heavenly Valley) and in Siberia (Krasnojarsk).

The ride will open on 13th December 2008.

www.ziprider.com

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