orthopaedic disorders and flying
Last edited 08/2019
- fractures
- simple fractures - flying is contraindicated for 2 days
- compound/comminuted fractures - flying is contraindicated for 5+ days
- air trapped in fresh plaster casts will expand and may cause constriction. Therefore if a tubular cast has been applied less than 48 hours previously then this needs to be split or bivalved before flight
The following table is provided as a guide only to the timeframe that should elapse between a medical event and the intended flight. The timeframes may be changed following considered medical assessment of a specific case (3,4):
| Diagnosis | Assessment required by a doctor with aviation medicine experience | Accept as fit to fly if: | Comments |
| Major hip, knee, or ankle surgery | If unable to mobilize with a walking aid and sit fully upright in the seat for take-off and landing | Consideration for DVT prophylaxis is very important. If no DVT prophylaxis, longer travel (>6 hrs) within the first 6 weeks should only be taken if essential | |
| Arthroscopic joint surgery | If able to mobilize with a walking aid and sit fully upright in the seat for take-off and landing | ||
| Full plaster cast (flight more than 2 hrs.) | Less than 48 hours after injury if the cast is not bivalved | >= 48hrs | Comply also with anaemia rules for # femur/pelvis i.e. HB 8.5 gm/dl |
For up to date advice then check current guidance (3,4).
Note that these are only guidelines and each airline has its own regulations and medical standards.
Reference:
- 'Medical guidelines for air travel', Aviation, Space and Environmental Medicine, October 1996, 67, 10, 11.
- Doctor (April 2005). Ready reckoner - fitness to fly.
- Civil Aviation Authority. Fitness to Fly (Accessed 1/8/19)
- International Air Transport Association. Medical Manual 11th Edition (2018).