It's never ideal to have an injury right before your holiday, but the good news is that you can usually still travel. To make sure you're safe and comfortable during the flight, there are just a few important things you'll need to keep in mind.
The 48-hour rule ⏰
First and foremost, your cast must have been fitted at least 48 hours before you fly. This is a standard safety requirement for all airlines to allow for any swelling to settle and to ensure you don't experience any unnecessary discomfort during the flight.
Check with your airline and doctor 👨⚕️
Before you head to the airport, it's really important to check your airline's specific policy on their website. Most airlines will ask for a Fit to Fly letter from your doctor, and some may have their own specific forms that they need you to bring along. Getting this sorted early will help you avoid any last-minute stress at the boarding gate.
Seating and comfort 💺
When it comes to your flight, please keep these safety rules in mind:
Seat types: For safety reasons, you won't be able to sit in an extra legroom seat, such as an exit row, while wearing a cast.
Mobility: You'll need to be able to bend your knee to sit comfortably in a standard seat.
Full-leg casts: If you have a full-leg cast or are unable to bend your knee, the best thing to do is reach out to the airline directly. They’ll be able to talk you through the best seating options to make sure your journey is as comfortable as possible.