We made it out to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this afternoon to find the very first uncovered gondola testing on the line. The Skyliner testing has been going on for while, but the gondolas have been covered. Today, we were able to see an uncovered, unthemed gondola in action. The gondola contains a highly reflective window coating. Disney has said this is to keep the temperatures comfortable for guests.

This also marks the first time we’ve able to see the passive ventilation system working. Multiple full-width windows on either side are open, allowing air to flow into the cabin.

Recently, the gondolas have been undergoing load and capacity testing to see how well they handle high speeds and capacity. Caribbean Beach Resort has also seen preparing for the new system by constructing an evacuation route for the Skyliner.