Disney is reportedly delaying the release of the controversial Genie app by weeks, while pricing for some attraction line-skips could be surprisingly hefty. According to WDWMagic, their sources are telling them that the Genie app has been delayed until late October. Additionally, the sources are claiming to them that Disney may charge up to $24.00 per guest per line skip on select attractions (depending on time of year). That means a family of four could pay close to $100 to gain a Fastpass (now Lightning Pass) to Seven Dwarf’s Mine Train. Worse, it seems Lightning Passes will not be offered at all for attractions in which pay-to-play options are offered. That means no free Fastpasses for the most popular rides.
Ultimately, this looks like Disney has pulled a bait-and-switch maneuver for guests. They offered the premium Genie Lightning Lane system at a lower price, thus making it seem that the cost wasn’t too exorbitant, even though Fastpasses had always been free in the past. However, now your family is finding out they’re going to pay big time to get on the rides that most people want to line skip more than any other. If you’re wanting on Slinky Dog Dash or Space Mountain, the only option is to pay a large sum for your crew to get on board.
Image Courtesy: Blog Mickey
Business Insider is reporting that travel agents are split on this new system. It really is beginning to look like the wealthy upper class will have a better time at Disney, simply because they can afford to buy their way onto rides. By cordoning off the most popular rides from the normal, lower-payment line-skip system, Disney is potentially creating hours-long lines that only people ready to drop Benjamins can afford to bypass. With most live action performances gone, there’s not as much to eat up crowds and lines at the most popular attractions.
For more information on the Genie app, keep checking back at That Park Place!
