As Walt Disney World moves closer to the reopening of select resorts in June and theme parks in July, the Skyliner transportation system is moving again.
Website WDWNT.com reports that Disney cast members were putting the Skyliner through its paces today. Specifically, the line which connects Epcot's International Gateway to Disney's Riviera Resort and Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort was operational.
Riviera is among the resorts slated to reopen on June 22. However, there are questions regarding the status of the three other resorts on the Skyliner route: Caribbean Beach, Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort. Travel Agent sources have indicated that guests with reservations at these resorts are being moved to Disney Vacation Club locations. This casts some doubt on whether Disney would operate the Skyliner for guests of a single 341-room resort.
On the other hand, Disney announced that the sole character dining experience scheduled to resume is located at Riviera's Topolino's Terrace. This is sure to draw interest from guests staying at Disney's Beach Club Villas and Disney's BoardWalk Villas. The Skyliner would provide convenient transportation from those resorts to Riviera.
It would also help manage the influx of guests to Epcot, with Riviera visitors arriving via the International Gateway rather than taking a bus to the park's main entrance.
Disney recently confirmed that "complimentary transportation" would still be offered between hotels and theme parks, but has not revealed any details. Social distancing requirements--particuarly on buses, boats and monorails--could impact Disney's ability to efficiently resume all modes of transportation.
