Katoomba’s Scenic Skyway is to undergo a $3 million upgrade scheduled for completion in mid-November.
The upgrade will increase the ride’s capacity by 30 per cent to provide a more spacious visitor experience and improve queuing times during peak periods.
Built by world leading ropeway engineering company, Garaventa, the re-configured cabin will also allow for streamlined loading and unloading, and visitors will be able to access free onboard Wi-Fi for the first time.
The Skyway upgrade comes just four years after Scenic World’s $30 million overhaul of the iconic Scenic Railway, contributing to a $33 million investment in infrastructure over the past five years.
It also marks the next phase of the Scenic Skyway’s evolution ahead of the ride’s 60th anniversary in 2018.
Scenic World’s managing director Anthea Hammon said the Skyway upgrade was part of Scenic World’s mission to evolve as a tourism business and provide unique experiences that appeal to visitors from across the globe.
“We have come a long way as a family business since my grandfather opened Scenic World in 1945, but we recognise the importance of moving forward so we can maintain our leading position in a competitive market and continue to capture the hearts and minds of our valued visitors,” she said.
“We are constantly looking for new ways to innovate, invest and grow as a business, and the Scenic Skyway upgrade is part of our vision to exceed our visitors’ expectations and set new standards of excellence in the Australian attractions industry.”
Originally built in 1958 by Scenic World founder Harry Hammon, the original Skyway cabin was clad in plywood and painted bright pink.
The Skyway has seen many upgrades over the years, including a change to its signature yellow colour before a new cabin and cable system was installed in 2004.
The Scenic Skyway will be closed from October 9 during the upgrade project, and is set to re-open in mid-November.
The Scenic Railway, Cableway and Walkway will operate as usual, and ticket prices will be reduced.