 Kingda Ka 's layout and experience is nearly identical to Top Thrill Dragster . After the train has been locked and checked , it moves slowly out of the station to the launch area . It passes through a switch track , which allows four trains ( on two tracks ) to load simultaneously . When the signal to launch is given , the train rolls back slightly ( to engage the catch car ) and the brakes on the launch track retract . There is a voice that says , " Arms down , head back , hold on " . The launch occurs five seconds after the hissing sound of the brake fins retracting or the warning voice . Kingda Ka 's horn previously sounded before each launch , but it was silenced due to noise complaints from nearby residents ; the horn now sounds only when Kingda Ka first launches after being idle for a length of time . When the train is in position , the hydraulic launch mechanism accelerates the train from 0 to 128 miles per hour ( 0 to 206 km / h ) in 3 @.@ 5 seconds . At the end of the launch track , the train climbs the main tower ( or top hat ) and rolls 90 degrees to the right before reaching a height of 456 feet ( 139 m ) . The train then descends 418 feet ( 127 m ) straight down through a 270 @-@ degree right @-@ hand spiral . The train climbs the second hill of 129 feet ( 39 m ) , producing a moment of weightlessness before being smoothly brought to a stop by the magnetic brakes ; it then makes a left @-@ hand U @-@ turn and enters the station . The ride lasts 28 seconds from the start of the launch . 
