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A modified crash brace position for aircraft passengers
P Brownson1, W A Wallace, D J Anton
1Department of Orthopaedic and Accident Surgery, University Hospital, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|October 17, 1998
Summary
A modified aircraft brace position, with the upper torso forward and legs back, can reduce head and lower limb injuries during impact. This improved safety measure aims to decrease passenger harm in crash landings.
Area of Science:
- Aviation safety
- Biomechanics
- Injury prevention
Background:
- The 1989 Kegworth air disaster highlighted severe passenger injuries, particularly to the pelvis and lower limbs.
- Existing research suggests modifying the standard brace-for-impact position could mitigate crash-related injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To biomechanically evaluate a modified brace position for aircraft passengers.
- To determine if a modified position reduces the risk of injury during impact.
Main Methods:
- Impact testing was conducted on aircraft seats using a test dummy at -16 Gx.
- Four distinct dummy positions were analyzed, focusing on torso and leg orientation.
- Forces on the head, spine, and lower limbs were recorded and compared across positions.
Main Results:
- The braced forward position reduced the risk of head injury compared to an upright posture.
- Lower limb injury risk was linked to limb flailing, which was prevented in the braced, legs-back position.
Conclusions:
- A modified brace position with an inclined torso and legs slightly behind the knees may decrease head and lower limb injuries.
- Standardizing this modified position could enhance passenger compliance and understanding.
- Despite potential improvements, significant forces during impact can still cause severe injuries to the femur, pelvis, and lumbar spine.