Flying high at 35,000 feet can be exhausting, noisy, and distracting—unless you have the right headphones. The best noise cancelling headphones for airplanes transform chaotic cabins into peaceful, productive spaces.
Whether you’re a business traveler, digital nomad, or smart tourist, these headphones are your ticket to comfort, focus, and rest on every flight.
Ready to find your perfect pair?
Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane: A Must-Have for Smart Flyers
When you're soaring 35,000 feet above the ground, a solid pair of headphones can be the difference between a nightmare flight and a restful, productive journey. Whether you're tuning out crying babies, editing a podcast, or catching up on sleep, investing in the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane use is more than a luxury—it’s a travel essential.
But who really needs quality airplane headphones? If you find yourself in one of these groups, read on—your ears (and sanity) will thank you.
Business Travelers
For business travelers, time in the air is rarely downtime. Whether you're polishing a deck for a meeting in Singapore or trying to squeeze in rest before a tight layover in Frankfurt, distractions aren’t an option. The best headphones for airplane trips deliver both noise cancellation and comfort, letting you focus, rest, and even get into the zone with ambient music or podcasts.
Key features to look for:
- Long battery life for long-haul flights
- Lightweight design for comfort
- Effective ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) blocks out jet engine noise, while ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) ensures your voice stays clear during calls and meetings.
These aren’t just headphones—they’re your in-flight productivity tool.
Remote Workers & Digital Nomads
Working in the clouds? Literally? Digital nomads and remote professionals often find themselves needing to join video calls, edit content, or focus on writing—even at 36,000 feet. That means crystal-clear audio and a reliable microphone aren't negotiable.
The best travel headphones for remote workers offer:
- High-fidelity sound for editing audio or video
- Noise-cancelling microphones for meetings in noisy cabins
- Compact design for easy packing
When your office is wherever you land, having the best headphones for flying becomes part of your digital toolkit.
Smart Tourists & Frequent Flyers
Not every traveler is on the clock. Some are there to explore, relax, or simply escape the noise of everyday life. But airplane cabins can be loud, unpredictable environments. Babies crying, engines roaring, and chatty passengers can quickly drain your travel joy.
For those looking to tune out and tune in, the right headphones can deliver a first-class audio experience in economy seats.
Why these belong on your international travel essentials list:
- Block ambient noise for deeper sleep
- Immersive sound for inflight movies or music
- Foldable, portable design to fit any carry-on
If you want your trip to start the moment you board, add these to your travel essentials list.
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane [2025 Picks]
Here are the top-rated options that balance comfort, audio quality, battery life, and portability — whether you're prepping a presentation at 35,000 feet or tuning out engine noise on a red-eye.
Sony WH-1000XM5 – Best Overall for Business Travel
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Lightweight and ultra-comfortable for long flights
- 30-hour battery life
- Multipoint connection for easy switching between devices
- Why it's great: A favorite among executives and frequent flyers for its reliability, clarity, and travel-friendly design
Nuroum OpenEar Pro 2 – Best for Situational Awareness & Long-Term Comfort
- Innovative open-ear design: stay aware of cabin announcements or colleagues
- Built-in ENC boom mic for professional-grade call clarity
- Super lightweight, designed for extended wear with zero ear fatigue
- IPX5 water-resistant — great if you're rushing through terminals
- Why it's great: A go-to for business travelers who need to stay alert yet engaged — especially during long-haul transits, layovers, or hybrid work situations
Bose QuietComfort Ultra – Best for Comfort and Call Clarity
- Signature Bose ANC tuned for airplane noise
- Top-tier microphone array for crystal-clear calls
- Luxurious ear cushions ideal for overnight flights
- Why it's great: Balances leisure and work with top-tier comfort and voice pickup, even in noisy cabins
Apple AirPods Max – Best for Apple Ecosystem Users
- Seamless syncing with iPhone, Mac, iPad
- Immersive spatial audio and dynamic head tracking
- Heavier than others, but premium build and sound
- Why it's great: Ideal for Apple loyalists, especially creatives who work in media, design, or content creation
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless – Best Battery Life
- Up to 60 hours of continuous playback
- Balanced, studio-quality sound
- Fold-flat design with minimalist business aesthetic
- Why it's great: Perfect for long international trips or back-to-back flights with minimal charging hassle
How to Choose the Best Headphones for Flying
If you’ve ever regretted packing the wrong pair of headphones mid-flight—too uncomfortable, too quiet, or flat-out useless with the in-flight entertainment system—you’re not alone. Choosing the best headphones for flying isn’t just about sound quality; it’s about smart, travel-savvy features that make your trip smoother from takeoff to touchdown.
Here’s what to keep in mind when picking the perfect pair of airplane headphones:
Over-Ear vs. In-Ear: Which One Wins at Cruising Altitude?
- Over-Ear Headphones: Ideal for long-haul flights, these offer superior noise isolation, comfort for extended wear, and often better battery life. They create a seal around your ears, making them perfect for blocking out jet engine hum or chatty neighbors.
- In-Ear Headphones: Lightweight and ultra-portable, these are great for travelers packing light. Modern in-ear models with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) can perform surprisingly well. Just make sure they’re comfortable for long sessions and have good ear tip options.
- Open-Ear Headsets: A newer option growing in popularity, open-ear designs are built for all-day comfort with no pressure on your ears. They let in ambient sounds so you can stay aware of your surroundings—great for navigating busy terminals or staying alert during in-flight announcements. Some models also offer anti-sound leakage features, keeping your conversations or audio private, even in public spaces.
Pro tip: Over-ears tend to win for immersive movie watching and serious noise reduction. In-ears are unbeatable for space-saving and casual use. Open-ear options are perfect for comfort-first travelers who value situational awareness.
Battery Life: A Long-Haul Essential
Flights from L.A. to Tokyo? You’ll need headphones that can go the distance. Look for:
- 30–40 hours of battery life for over-ears
- At least 6–8 hours per charge for in-ears, with a case offering additional charges
Bonus points for fast charging, so you can get hours of playback with just a quick top-up at the airport.
Bluetooth vs. Wired: Why You Need Both
Bluetooth is great for wireless convenience, but don’t overlook the importance of a wired connection—especially if you want to use the airplane’s in-flight entertainment system. Many newer Bluetooth-only headphones won’t work with traditional seatback screens.
Checklist must-have:
✔ A 3.5mm audio cable
✔ Airplane adapter (those double-prong connectors you thought were outdated? Still used on many airlines)
Portability and Foldability
Space is precious when you travel. The best travel headphones should fold down neatly and come with a protective travel case. Compact design doesn’t just save space—it also keeps your gear safe from bumps, spills, and compression in your carry-on.
Final Takeaway: Match Features to Your Travel Style
Choosing the best headphones for airplane use means balancing sound quality, comfort, portability, and versatility. Whether you're a business traveler, digital nomad, or global explorer, the right pair of headphones isn't just an accessory—it's a vital part of your international travel essentials.
Don’t forget:
- Pack your airplane adapter
- Charge before boarding
- Test the fit and sound before you fly
Because nothing ruins a long flight like realizing your “travel headphones” don’t travel well.
Travel Essentials List: Don’t Forget These!
Whether you're jetting off for a conference in London or sealing a deal in Singapore, staying organized and comfortable is key. That’s why every frequent flyer needs a well-packed travel essentials list—especially for international travel.
Here’s your go-to checklist of international travel essentials tailored specifically for business travelers:
| ✅ Item | 💡 Why You Need It |
| Noise Cancelling Headphones | Block out cabin noise, focus on work, and arrive well-rested |
| Power Bank | Keep devices charged between airports and meetings |
| Universal Travel Adapter | Stay connected no matter the plug type at your destination |
| Compression Socks | Boost circulation and reduce swelling on long-haul flights |
| Document Organizer | Keep passports, boarding passes, and meeting materials tidy and accessible |
| Neck Pillow (optional) | Support your neck for better sleep in-flight |
| Sanitizing Wipes | Clean trays, armrests, and devices for a hygienic flying experience |
| Offline Entertainment | Download podcasts, presentations, or reading material to stay productive or unwind |
✈️ Pro Tip: Keep this travel essentials list saved in your phone or printed in your carry-on so you're never caught unprepared for your next international business trip.
FAQs – Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplanes
Q1: Can you use Bluetooth headphones on an airplane?
Yes — with a catch. Most airlines now allow Bluetooth devices during cruising altitude. However, in-flight entertainment systems still often require a wired connection, so it’s smart to pack a 3.5mm cable or bring a Bluetooth transmitter that plugs into the seat jack.
Q2: Are earbuds or over-ear headphones better for long flights?
Over-ear headphones are generally more comfortable for extended use and have stronger noise cancellation. However, premium earbuds have come a long way and are a great lightweight option, especially if you prefer portability and less bulk.
Q3: Are noise cancelling headphones worth it for international flights?
Absolutely. On long-haul trips, headphones with ANC reduce ear fatigue and help you sleep better by minimizing engine and cabin noise. Plus, ENC enhances call clarity, making it easier to concentrate on work or entertainment—essential for your international travel essentials.
Q4: Will noise cancelling headphones block out crying babies or loud passengers?
To a degree, yes. ANC is most effective at cancelling low, consistent sounds like engine noise, while ENC focuses on reducing ambient noise picked up by microphones during calls. Pairing ANC with music or white noise can help mask sudden or high-pitched distractions such as crying babies or loud passengers.
Q5: Can I still hear the flight attendant or announcements?
Yes, and that’s a good thing. Most noise cancelling headphones reduce background noise but allow you to hear speech—especially if you're not playing anything. Many models also offer "transparency" or ambient modes, so you can stay aware when needed.
Q6: Will noise cancelling headphones hurt my ears or affect pressure during takeoff?
No more than regular headphones. Some people might feel slight pressure from ANC technology, but it’s minimal. ENC doesn’t affect ear pressure. To ease discomfort from cabin pressure changes, try chewing gum, yawning, or using filtered earplugs.
