LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Baptist Health Rehabilitation Institute-Little Rock (BHRI) recently installed a unique cross-section of an airplane fuselage, branded as “Sky BHRI,” complete with authentic passenger seats and overhead storage compartments.
This project was constructed by Aero Salvage Design of Northeast Arkansas, a specialized company that salvages airplane parts to create realistic aircraft sets for movies and television. It will be integrated into the institute’s therapy programs to provide a realistic, true-to-life flight experience for patients undergoing rehabilitation.
The installation was constructed into a wooden frame. While the interior features authentic materials salvaged from decommissioned planes, the exterior is wrapped in a vinyl to mimic a real cross-section, incorporating the colors of Baptist Health.
The addition of the fuselage section is a groundbreaking step in BHRI’s commitment to providing innovative and patient-centered care.
For many patients, the return to daily activities includes the ability to travel. This simulation environment will allow physical and occupational therapists to work with patients on the complex tasks associated with air travel, such as:
- Navigating the narrow aisles and managing luggage.
- Practicing the mobility required to get into and out of passenger seats.
- Reaching into overhead bins to retrieve items.
- Managing balance and coordination in a realistic, confined space.
“This incredible addition provides an unparalleled opportunity to help our patients achieve their travel goals with confidence,” said Kourney Matlock, president of Baptist Health Rehabilitation Institute-Little Rock. “The fear of not being able to manage the physical demands of flying can be a significant barrier for those recovering from an injury or illness. By safely mimicking this experience here at the Institute, we are directly addressing a major real-world challenge, allowing our patients to return to their lives and travel plans sooner.”
The simulated environment, funded in part by gifts to Baptist Health Rehabilitation Institute through Baptist Health Foundation, will be a vital tool for patients recovering from strokes, spinal cord injuries, orthopedic procedures, and other conditions that impact mobility and balance.
Baptist Health Rehabilitation Institute-Little Rock is Arkansas’ largest and most comprehensive physical medicine and rehabilitation hospital. For more information about BHRI, visit BaptistHealthRehab.com.
About Baptist Health
Baptist Health, Arkansas’ most comprehensive health care organization, has provided high-quality care rooted in Christian compassion and innovation for over a century. As the state’s largest private not-for-profit health system, Baptist Health is here For You. For Life. With more than 300 points of access, our extensive network includes 14 hospitals, over 75 primary and specialty care clinics, urgent care centers, a senior living community, and educational programs, including a college for nursing and allied health studies and a graduate residency program. Supported by approximately 12,000 employees and renowned physicians, we deliver groundbreaking treatments and impactful community outreach programs. Baptist Health is proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work and was recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Admired Workplaces in 2026. To learn more, visit Baptist-Health.org, call Baptist Health HealthLine at 1-888-BAPTIST or download the myBaptistHealth app. Stay connected with us on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.