Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Flying 2025: Top Picks

The Sony WH-1000XM5 and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are the best noise cancelling headphones for flying due to their industry-leading ability to neutralize low-frequency engine drone and high-frequency cabin noise. For travelers prioritizing portability, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) offers the most effective active noise cancellation (ANC) in an earbud format.

Key Takeaways: Top Picks for 2024-2025

If you are in a rush to catch your flight, here is a quick summary of the top-performing headphones based on our extensive testing in real-world cabin environments.

Why Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is Essential for Flying

Flying presents a unique acoustic challenge that standard headphones cannot handle. The constant roar of jet engines typically sits in the low-frequency range (20Hz to 250Hz). High-quality Active Noise Cancellation uses internal microphones to “listen” to this noise and create an inverted sound wave to cancel it out.

In my experience testing these devices on 10+ hour international flights, the difference isn’t just about hearing your music better. It is about reducing auditory fatigue. A quiet cabin environment allows your nervous system to relax, significantly reducing the “brain fog” often associated with jet lag.

Deep Dive: What are the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Flying?

Sony WH-1000XM5: The Gold Standard for Modern Travelers

The Sony WH-1000XM5 currently holds the title for the most balanced travel headphone on the market. It utilizes an Integrated Processor V1 and a HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 to manage eight different microphones.

• Flight Performance: These headphones excel at blocking out the unpredictable sounds of a plane, such as a crying baby or the clattering of galley carts. The Auto NC Optimizer automatically adjusts the cancellation levels based on the atmospheric pressure of the cabin.
• Expert Insight: I found the “Speak-to-Chat” feature incredibly useful when the flight attendant asks for your drink order. You don’t have to take the headphones off; just start speaking, and the music pauses while transparency mode activates.
• Pros: Exceptional mic quality for calls, 30-hour battery, and rapid charging (3 mins for 3 hours of play).
• Cons: The design does not fold as compactly as previous generations.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra: The Ultimate in Silence

When it comes to pure silence, Bose remains the champion. The QuietComfort Ultra features CustomTune technology, which calibrates the sound and noise cancellation specifically to the shape of your inner ear every time you put them on.

• Flight Performance: In my tests, the “Quiet Mode” on Bose virtually deleted the engine hum of a Boeing 787. The new Immersive Audio mode creates a wider soundstage, making it feel like you are watching a movie in a theater rather than on a tiny seat-back screen.
• Comfort Factor: Bose uses a proprietary protein leather and a clamping force that is “just right.” You can wear these for a trans-Atlantic flight without feeling the dreaded “ear squeeze” or heat buildup.
• Key Stat: The Bose QC Ultra provides roughly 30dB to 35dB of noise reduction in the lower frequencies, which is top-of-class.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: For the 60-Hour Battery

If you are flying from London to Sydney with multiple layovers, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 is your best friend. While most competitors tap out at 30 hours, these last for a staggering 60 hours on a single charge.

• Flight Performance: While the ANC is slightly behind Sony and Bose, the sound quality is superior. It supports aptX Adaptive, ensuring high-fidelity audio even over Bluetooth.
• Expert Tip: Use the Smart Control App to set “Sound Zones.” You can program the headphones to automatically max out noise cancellation the moment you arrive at the airport coordinates.

Comparing the Best Earbuds for Air Travel

Not everyone wants to carry a bulky pair of over-ear headphones in their personal item. For those traveling light, noise-canceling earbuds have reached a level where they can compete with their larger siblings.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) with USB-C

For iPhone users, these are a no-brainer. The H2 chip processes sound 48,000 times per second.

• The “Traveler” Advantage: The Adaptive Audio feature is brilliant for navigating airports. It keeps the engine roar out but lets important gate announcements through.


• Reality Check: The battery life is only about 6 hours. On a long flight, you will need to pop them into the charging case for 15 minutes mid-way through.

Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds

These are the best choice for Android users or those who want the most “plug-like” seal. They use Polyurethane foam tips which provide excellent passive isolation even before the ANC kicks in. This dual-layer approach is highly effective against the high-pitched hiss of the plane’s air conditioning system.

Critical Features to Look For Before Buying

To determine what are the best noise cancelling headphones for flying for your specific needs, consider these four technical pillars:

1. Atmospheric Pressure Optimization: As the cabin pressurizes, the density of air changes, which can affect how sound waves move. Higher-end models from Sony and Bose have sensors to recalibrate for this change.
2. Wired Connectivity: Many in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems still require a 3.5mm jack. Ensure your headphones include a cable and, ideally, a two-prong airplane adapter.
3. Transparency Mode: This allows you to hear the pilot’s announcements without removing your headset. Look for “Natural” transparency that doesn’t sound robotic.
4. Multipoint Bluetooth: This allows you to stay connected to your laptop (for a movie) and your phone (for notifications) simultaneously.

Budget-Friendly Alternatives That Actually Work

You don’t need to spend $400 to get a quiet flight. There are “value” options that punch far above their weight class.

• Sony WH-CH720N: These are the lightest ANC headphones Sony makes. They use the same V1 Processor found in the flagship model but at a third of the price. The plastic build feels cheaper, but the noise cancellation is surprisingly robust for the price point.
• Soundcore Space Q45: These offer 98% noise reduction according to lab tests and have a very impressive 50-hour battery life. They are widely considered the best “bang for your buck” in the travel community.

Expert Maintenance Tips for Travel Headphones

To ensure your investment lasts through years of travel, follow these expert-vetted tips:

• Avoid the “Neck Hang”: Resting headphones around your neck exposes the earpads to sweat and skin oils, which degrade the synthetic leather over time.


• Use the Hard Case: The most common cause of headphone failure is “crush damage” inside a stuffed backpack. Always use the provided hardshell case.


• Update Firmware: Manufacturers frequently release “ANC Tuning” updates. Always check the app before you head to the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use noise-canceling headphones without playing music?

Yes. Most high-end headphones allow you to turn on ANC-only mode. This is perfect for sleeping on a plane. However, some models have an “auto-off” feature if no audio is playing; you can usually disable this in the companion app.

Is it safe to wear ANC headphones during takeoff and landing?

Generally, yes. Most airlines allow Bluetooth devices during all phases of flight. However, you should keep the volume low enough to hear emergency instructions or use Transparency Mode to stay aware of your surroundings.

Do noise-canceling headphones block out crying babies?

No headphone can 100% eliminate the sound of a crying baby because ANC is best at “predictable” low-frequency sounds. However, the combination of passive isolation (the physical cups) and ANC can reduce a baby’s cry to a faint, manageable distant sound.

Why do my ears feel “pressure” when I turn on noise cancellation?

This is known as “eardrum pressure” or the “cabin pressure” effect. It is a psychoacoustic phenomenon where your brain gets confused by the lack of low-frequency sound. If you are sensitive to this, the Bose QuietComfort line is generally rated as the most comfortable for those who dislike that “vacuum” feeling.

Should I get over-ear or in-ear headphones for flying?

Over-ear headphones are better for long-term comfort and absolute noise reduction. In-ear buds are better if you are a “side sleeper” or if you want to save space in your carry-on bag.