As has been the case with some of Disney's outdoor attractions or resort pools for decades, there will be a storm radius for the Skyliner and if a lightning strike occurs within that, the gondolas will cycle until they're empty, dumping guests from the lines and not reloading until there have been X minutes since the ...

No, the Disney Skyliner gondola system at Walt Disney World is strictly suspended during storms involving lightning or high winds. Disney's safety protocol dictates that the system must close if lightning is detected within a 10-mile radius or if sustained winds exceed approximately 30 mph. While the gondolas are designed with vent flaps to protect you from light rain, they are not intended to operate during severe Central Florida thunderstorms. When the Skyliner is closed, Disney automatically activates backup bus transportation to move guests between the affected resorts (Riviera, Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, and Art of Animation) and the parks (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios). In 2026, travelers should also note that the Skyliner often closes for a pre-scheduled annual refurbishment in late January or early February (for example, it is closed from Jan 25–31, 2026). Always check the "Live Transit" status in the My Disney Experience app during your stay, as a sudden afternoon storm can change your 10-minute "flight" into a 25-minute bus ride.