Disney has released more background on the creation of Soarin' Across America, the new version of the popular attraction coming to EPCOT and Disney California Adventure in Summer 2026. This update from Walt Disney Imagineering offers an inside look at how the team is capturing the country's landscapes and cityscapes for the next chapter of Soarin'.
A Nationwide Journey in Celebration of America's 250th Anniversary
The attraction will take guests on an aerial journey across the United States in honor of the nation's 250th anniversary.
"A trip across the United States felt like a natural next flight for Soarin' to take," said Tom Fitzgerald, Portfolio Executive Creative Director and Chief Storytelling Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering. "The 250th anniversary of our nation provided the perfect opportunity to 'book the flight.'"
Behind the Scenes of Filming
Filming for Soarin' Across America is now underway across multiple U.S. locations. Executive Creative Media Producer Bernice Howes explained how her team planned each scene with satellite mapping and aerial path modeling before taking to the skies.
"We set up aerial paths to understand our filming location needs and how one location transitions into the next to tell the story," she said.
The team tested a variety of helicopter rigs, camera lenses, and heavy-lift drones to achieve a consistent look across scenes.
"We then gathered all the needed equipment to go on location - 33 cases in total - to ensure we had everything we needed while out in the middle of nowhere," Howes added.
According to Fitzgerald, the creative goal is to reflect the diversity and beauty of the nation through a cohesive flight narrative.
"Our goal was to offer guests a sampling of America's beauty and urban wonders with the hope it would paint an emotional portrait for the nation's Semiquincentennial celebration," he said.
Howes described how the team is using continuous motion to link each location.
"Contrasting shots of scenic wonders, cities, and coasts are tied together through smooth transitions that show the geographical whole of the nation," she explained. "The film's creation is designed to embody America's spirit for today's guests and future generations."
A Coordinated Launch at Two Parks
Soarin' Across America will debut simultaneously at EPCOT in Florida and Disney California Adventure in California. The film will replace Soarin' Around the World, which has been featured since 2016. The attraction will continue to use the signature suspended ride system, scent effects, and orchestral score that have made Soarin' a guest favorite for nearly two decades.
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