Commander – Hanstein

What makes Commander Hanstein special?

The name and design give the ride its own distinctive theme. According to the operator, the design company AFAW from Brinkum created the decorations featuring motifs from the film “Rocketeer”. The distinctive half-roof is more than just a detail: together with the striking lighting system, it defines the ride’s overall appearance on the fairground.

The gondolas have an interesting history. Commander first began operating in 1992 in Lüdenscheid, initially with swing gondolas that could not perform inversions. The ride was converted to looping gondolas as early as the middle of 1993. Since then, it has been possible to experience the more intense movement pattern typical of today’s Commander.

What is a ride on Commander Hanstein like?

The ride combines a circular motion with individually moving gondolas. The carousel constantly changes the position of each passenger. The gondolas can also flip over their axis. So no two moments feel the same: at one point you’re looking at the façade, then your surroundings suddenly spin further, followed by the gondola’s next movement.

The seats are arranged in pairs. With twenty gondolas in total, two passengers can board each one. A shoulder restraint secures you in your seat. It’s also worth watching from the outside, as this gives you a particularly good view of the overlapping movements. In the evening, the ride’s elaborate lighting adds to the spectacle, highlighting the design of the half-roof.

History, operator and construction

The ride was built in 1992 by the Dutch manufacturer Mondial in Heerenveen. The Hanstein family has worked in the showman trade for generations and operates several rides. Commander is one of the most distinctive rides in the family’s business. The manufacturer calls the type Shake R5, and the carousel’s design has remained a recognisable feature despite technical developments.

The ride requires a large pitch and weighs around 80 tonnes, according to the operator. This makes it easy to spot from a distance at a fair. When you spot Commander on a fairground, look out for the colourful gondolas bearing the Hanstein name, the film-themed façade and the lighting under the roof.

You can find more fairs with rides in the funfair calendar. There you can check where an event is currently taking place.