Disney boosts revenue with lightning lane pass in 2025

In late October 2024, Walt Disney Co. is set to pilot its new Lightning Lane Premiere Pass program, potentially increasing park visit costs for families. Goldman Sachs analyst Michael Ng forecasts that the initiative could generate additional revenue of $220 million to $230 million in 2025 through sales of approximately one million passes, which are designed to provide guests with enhanced access to popular attractions. The Premiere Pass prices vary, ranging from $129 to $449 at Walt Disney World and $300 to $400 at Disneyland, with the latter charges applying from January 2025. Notably, these passes will only be available to guests staying at Disney hotels or other select accommodations, emphasizing the strategy aimed at boosting visitor numbers at on-site properties. Despite the anticipated revenue increase, Ng expressed caution regarding the delayed launch of the Disney Adventure cruise, projected to negatively impact earnings by approximately $300 million for the fiscal year 2025, pushing the cruise's debut into fiscal 2026. This juxtaposition highlights the balancing act between new revenue streams and setbacks in other segments of Disney's expansive portfolio.