10 Best Headphones For Flying 2026 in the United States

The OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones offer a mix of strengths and weaknesses when considered for use during flights. One of their notable strengths is sound quality. The 50mm drivers and neodymium magnets deliver robust bass, clear vocals, and crisp highs, which is excellent for enjoying in-flight entertainment. Additionally, the headphones are built for comfort with soft, padded ear cushions and an adjustable headband, making them suitable for long flight durations.

However, these headphones rely on sound isolation rather than active noise cancellation, which may not be as effective in blocking out the constant hum of an airplane engine compared to dedicated noise-cancelling headphones. Since they are wired, the lack of battery life is not a concern, but this also means they may be less convenient for some users who prefer wireless options.

Portability is decent as they are lightweight and come with a portable bag, but being over-ear and not foldable, they might take up more space in a carry-on bag. Connectivity is versatile with the inclusion of both 3.5mm and 6.35mm jacks, making them compatible with most in-flight entertainment systems and a broad range of devices. The shared audio port is also a useful feature for sharing audio without the need for splitters. These headphones are best suited for users who prioritize sound quality and comfort over advanced noise cancellation and prefer wired connectivity.

The OneOdio A70 Bluetooth Over Ear Headphones offer some impressive features for those looking for headphones suitable for flying. The standout feature is the incredible 72 hours of battery life, ensuring you won't run out of power even on the longest flights. Additionally, the option to switch to a wired mode with included audio cables means you can continue using them without needing to recharge.

The headphones provide high-resolution sound quality with custom-made aluminum fascia and 40mm neodymium drivers, delivering powerful bass and dynamic stereo sound, which is great for enjoying music in detail during your flight. Another neat feature is the ability to share audio with others, which can be fun if you're traveling with friends or family. The Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity offers a reliable 10-meter range, compatible with various devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets.

These headphones do have some drawbacks. They lack active noise cancellation, which is an important feature for blocking out engine noise on flights. While the over-ear design may offer some passive noise reduction, it may not be sufficient in very noisy environments. Comfort-wise, the headphones are designed to be over-ear, which typically provides decent comfort, but individual experiences may vary depending on ear size and shape. At 14.4 ounces, they are not the lightest, which could impact long-term comfort when worn for extended periods. Portability might be an issue due to their size and weight, although they do come with a pouch for easier carrying. The OneOdio A70 headphones are a solid choice for those prioritizing battery life and sound quality, but may fall short in noise cancellation and portability, key features for frequent flyers.

The Bose Proflight Series 2 Aviation Headset is designed specifically for pilots, making it a strong contender in the category of headphones for flying. One of its standout features is the active noise cancellation, which effectively reduces surrounding noise, allowing pilots to lower their radio volume and hear important communications clearly. This is especially beneficial in the noisy environment of a pressurized, turbine-powered aircraft. In terms of comfort, the headset is exceptionally lightweight at just 4.5 ounces (128 grams), and comes with three sizes of silicone earbud tips to ensure a snug fit. This makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods, which is crucial for long flights.

The headset also features a flexible and thinner cable, making it less cumbersome and more portable. However, it should be noted that the overall weight, including the control module and batteries, is 9.6 ounces, which might be a consideration for some users. Battery life is managed by two AA batteries (included), though specific usage time isn't clearly stated, so pilots may need to keep spare batteries handy for long journeys. Sound quality is high with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, ensuring clear audio for communication. Connectivity is robust, with Bluetooth capability for wireless connections to compatible devices.

The tap control for talk-through communication is a convenient addition, although it might take some time to get used to. The headset comes with a carrying case, making it easy to transport and store. One downside is that it is not water-resistant, so care must be taken to protect it from moisture. The Bose Proflight Series 2 is an excellent choice for aviation professionals seeking comfort, effective noise cancellation, and reliable connectivity.