When will Disney Parks bring back the Fast Pass?

Previously, the Fast Pass was a great perk at Disney Parks. Booking that special time to ride popular attractions like Space Mountain or Haunted Mansion was always a highlight. No matter what else happened during the day, those three times were secured and magical moments were going to be captured on that ride.

Over the weekend, Disney Parks announced that guest capacity would be increasing. This announcement was coupled with changes to mask mandates and temperature screenings being eliminated. While the company would never comment on exact capacity, the crowds will be larger and wait times will likely increase. Even though guests will be happy about more opportunities to visit their favorite Disney Parks, it raises the question, will Fast Passes return?

Although Rise of the Resistance still has its virtual queue system, the other Disney rides require that sometimes endless shuffle through weaving lines. When capacity has been limited, the wait times have been reasonable. Many guests do not mind waiting around an hour for popular rides. But, what will the wait times be this summer or during the 50th anniversary celebration in October?

Will Fast Pass return or will another option be on the table?

Some people are speculating that the Fast Pass will not return. As the Magic Bands are beginning to be phased out and more options are being diverted to the Disney app, it could be quite possible that the idea of reserving a ride time will be off the table. Or, that option might come with a signature price tag.

Although most regular guests cannot afford the special VIP experiences, many people want the ability to have the ability plan their day and ensure that they ride their favorite attraction. While a virtual queue can be that option, it isn’t always a perfect choice.

For example, the virtual queue sets a limit on the amount of guests who can participate in the attraction. Once the slots are filled, no one else can experience the attraction. For people who long for that special experience, it can leave a void in the magical day.

At the same time, no one really likes standing in line for hours on end. Even with the Disney Play app, there is that feeling of being left out. But, it is the price to pay for wanting to ride that ride. Just think back to the three hours or more that people have waited to fly on the back of a banshee at Animal Kingdom.

Whether or not Disney Parks brings back the Fast Pass remains to be seen. Still, theme park capacity is increasing, which means longer lines throughout the parks. It might be time to pack a little more patience with those Mickey Ears.

What is your Disney experience is your favorite? Do you think that the theme parks need to adapt their current ride wait procedures?