The new Luna Park amusement park on Coney Island, New York, US has opened.

The 3.1 acre development by Central Amusement International (CAI) features 19 rides created by Italian designer Zamperla, one of which is making its world debut at Luna Park. Air Race is a fighter pilot simulation which sends riders upside down at up to 4Gs of force. For slightly less aerial excitement, also on offer are Balloon Expedition - a family ride offering aerial views of Coney Island from 40ft (12.2m) up in the air - and Beach Shack, a ride simulating the feel of a beach hut caught in a hurricane.

Among the other rides are Brooklyn Flyer; Circus Train; Happy Swing; Kite Glider; Lunar Express, a family gravity coaster making its North American debut at Luna Park; The Tickler, a modern take on a classic coaster of the same name from the original Luna Park; and Wild River, a water ride offering visitors a splash down a 40ft-(12.2m) tall chute. Refreshment is available from five outlets throughout the park, including - among other things - Carvel Ice Cream, popcorn, cotton candy, candy apples, Nathan's Hot Dogs, Coney Island Luna Lager and American BBQ.

The city of New York has provided funding of more than US$6.6m (£4.5m, €5.5m) to support Luna Park's opening, while CAI will invest nearly US$30m (£21m, €25m) over the next two years to open and operate both it and the Scream Zone, the second phase of development that will add an additional four rides including a new roller coaster. Luna Park is part of the City's Coney Island Revitalization Plan, designed to preserve and grow the historic amusement area and create a mixed-use neighborhood with new retail options and nearly 5,000 new homes. As part of the plan, the city is investing a total of more than US$150m (£103m, €125m) toward Phase I infrastructure improvements in Coney Island, including upgrading the underground infrastructure and rebuilding large sections of the Boardwalk.