Gap blocking systems and methods for amusement park attractions

A gap blocking system, comprising:

• a loading platform;
• and
• a panel assembly comprising a plurality of panels configured to rotate with the loading platform, wherein each panel of the plurality of panels is coupled to a respective biasing mechanism that is coupled to the loading platform and configured to bias each panel towards a closed configuration in which each panel extends radially away from the loading platform, wherein the plurality of panels is arranged such that a first panel of the plurality of panels is positioned to overlap a portion of a top surface of a second panel of the plurality of panels that is adjacent to the first panel when the plurality of panels are in the closed configuration.