Disneyland Paris Ends Free FASTPASS, Introduces Premier Access

Disney Parks around the world look to return to normal. However, one facet of the guest experience will fall by the wayside in Paris…

In a press release touting the digital enhancements on the Disneyland Paris App, the European theme park announced the deployment of Disney Premier Access and the continuation of Standby Pass, which together replace the free FASTPASS system.

Goodbye FASTPASS in Paris: Hello Disneyland Premiere Access

Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland Paris. Image: deadline.com.

The official release posted on ED92.org explained:

As we continue to assess many aspects of our business and make changes where they are needed for both the current environment and the future of our resort, the addition of Standby Pass and Disney Premier Access will provide alternative services for our guests and the previous FASTPASS service at Disneyland Paris will not be returning. We are always working to enhance our offerings and the way that our guests experience them based on valuable feedback for ongoing improvements across the resort.”

Disney Premier Access logo. Image: DisneylandParis.org.

Disneyland Paris Premiere Access: Pay to Play

Disney Premier Access will start at 8€ per person, per ride, which is currently around $9.50 multiplied by the number in your party.

Juliette Bron, Vice President of Digital & Data for Disneyland Paris said in the release, “We are always looking for ways to improve the guest experience.

“The return of Standby Pass, the introduction of Disney Premier Access, and each new digital enhancement across our parks and hotels is part of our commitment to provide innovative products and services that take into consideration ongoing feedback and not only meet but exceed the expectations of our guests.”

Instructions. Screenshot of DisneylandParis.org. Image: Disneyland Paris.

To review…

Standby pass is a free app-based service, which gives guests the opportunity to “spend part of their wait time for select attractions outside of the physical queue line.” Think of this as FASTPASS light, with the in-the-moment ability to wait outside a queue, but making the selection while inside the park on the day of their visit.

Image: Disneyland Paris

Disney Premier Access “allows guests to enjoy the ability to skip the regular queue line for some of our most beloved attractions, including a mix of thrill rides, Disney classics, and experiences for the whole family.” Unlike the FastPass+ system at Walt Disney World, guests will select their experiences while inside the park on the day of their visit.

Mickey and friends. Image: DisneylandParis.com

However, the official Disneyland Paris website added, “Purchasing a Disney Premier Access gives you fast access to the attraction you choose but does not guarantee immediate access.”

Meanwhile, both services seem aimed at keeping families out of line and in the park; eating and shopping and utilizing other attractions without a long queue.

Cast Member helps guests with entry. Image: Disneyland Paris.

Moreover, the language of the explanations seems to also give Disneyland Paris the ability to scale the services. For example, the 8€ Premier Access cost could be higher for select rides and times. And Standby Pass might be “activated during certain periods of the day; subject to availability and dependent on day-to-day needs in the parks.”

Technologic Evolution

As far as the reasoning for the change, Bron’s statement said:

Disneyland Hotel, Paris. Image: Disney.

Guests expect seamless experiences more and more, and with technology’s evolution, we have an opportunity – and a responsibility – to match their expectations.”

However, given the speculation about the future of the FastPass+ system at Walt Disney World and FASTPASS at Disneyland, one wonders about the naming convention of “Disney Premier Access.” Could this move at DLP telegraph similar situations in Orlando and Anaheim? Only time might tell.

Finally, keep it here for information about this developing story. And also what, if any bearing it might have at Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

Minnie Mouse. Image: Disneyland Paris.