Walt Disney World has officially taken a meaningful step toward updating one of its most recognizable Star Wars attractions. Disney has filed a new construction permit tied to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, signaling that work related to the ride’s future is now actively moving forward.
The permit, which lists “general construction,” applies to the attraction located inside Disney's Hollywood Studios. While Disney has not announced an official closure date—or confirmed whether the ride will experience downtime—the filing confirms that Smugglers Run is preparing for changes that go beyond routine maintenance.
As of January 7, Disney has not shared a detailed timeline for guests. However, the company has already confirmed that Smugglers Run will receive a major update, making this permit an important indicator that preparations are now underway.
What Changes Are Coming to Smugglers Run
Disney has previously confirmed that Smugglers Run will debut a brand-new mission inspired by The Mandalorian. Starting in May 2026, guests will join Din Djarin and Grogu on a new smuggling adventure that sends crews across familiar locations from the Star Wars universe, including Tatooine, Cloud City, and the remains of the Death Star.
This update represents the first major narrative shift for Smugglers Run since the attraction opened with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. While the ride system and cockpit layout are expected to remain the same, the story, visuals, and mission objectives will change significantly.
That helps explain the need for a broad construction permit. Even without physical track changes, installing new scenes, updating digital environments, and reprogramming ride systems requires extensive behind-the-scenes work.
Will the Ride Close?
At this point, Disney has not confirmed whether Smugglers Run will temporarily close during the transition. The attraction is currently operating as usual, and no downtime has been added to Disney’s official refurbishment schedule.
Disney has historically handled similar updates in multiple ways. Some attractions receive overnight updates or phased installations, while others require longer closures depending on technical complexity. The permit alone does not confirm a shutdown, but it does indicate that active work is now planned.
Given Smugglers Run’s role as a high-capacity anchor attraction inside Galaxy’s Edge, Disney may aim to limit extended downtime if possible.
Why This Matters for Galaxy’s Edge
Smugglers Run was always designed to evolve. Unlike Rise of the Resistance, which follows a fixed storyline, Smugglers Run was built as a modular experience capable of supporting multiple missions over time.
By introducing characters like Din Djarin and Grogu, Disney is aligning Galaxy’s Edge more closely with modern Star Wars storytelling while keeping the land relevant for repeat visitors. Rather than replacing the attraction, Disney is choosing to refresh it—extending its lifespan and appeal.
For guests, this update offers something rare: a familiar ride that will soon feel new again.
