An Orthopedic Positioning Device (OPD) is an assistive device equipped with internal restraints that properly position a person in the device to provide security and support (similar to a back or neck brace), while using the existing aircraft seatbelt as their primary method of restraint. Because each OPD is specifically designed to meet the support needs of that individual, the structure of the OPD and the internal harness system may vary.
OPDs are most commonly used to help support and position a person who has:
- Significant postural asymmetries of the pelvis, trunk, or mixed athetoid dysfunctions.
- Significant hyper or hypotonia, plasticity, or mixed athetoid dysfunctions.
- Absent or impaired sensation in an area of contact with a seating surface.
- History of, or current pressure ulcer, on an area of contact with a seat surface.
OPDs must meet the three conditions below:
- The OPD must be equipped with internal restraints to position a person in the device.
- The OPD must not attach to the aircraft seat.
- The aircraft seatbelt must be the primary restraint device for the Guest.
Seat assignment restrictions when using an OPD:
- Guests cannot be seated in an exit seat.
- Guests cannot be seated in a seat with an inflatable seat belt.
- Guests cannot obstruct any Guest's egress to the aisle.
OPD are permitted to be used during all phases of flight provided there is a medical need for the device, and all the conditions above are met. Please note that an OPD is not intended to be identified or used as a Child Restraint System (CRS) and should not be confused with After-Surgery Recovery Pillows: After-Surgery Recovery Pillows may not be used during the critical phases of flight (i.e., taxi, takeoff, or landing). After-surgery recovery pillows may only be used during the cruise phase of flight.
For additional information on assistive devices click here.