10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones For Airplanes 2025 in the United States

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are a top choice for frequent flyers seeking effective noise cancellation and comfort during long flights. One of their strongest features is the advanced active noise cancellation, which utilizes Dual Noise Sensor technology to significantly reduce ambient sounds, making them ideal for blocking out airplane noise. With a remarkable battery life of up to 30 hours and quick charging capabilities, you won’t have to worry about running out of power on long trips. The touch sensor controls allow for easy management of music and calls without fumbling with buttons, and the Speak-to-Chat feature is handy for conversations, automatically lowering the volume when you start talking.

In terms of comfort, these headphones are designed to relieve pressure, which is crucial for extended wear, especially during long flights. The adaptive sound control personalizes your listening experience, adjusting to your surroundings seamlessly. Pairing multiple devices is a breeze thanks to the multipoint connection feature, allowing you to switch between devices effortlessly.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the headphones are designed with comfort in mind, some users might still find them a bit bulky for long-term wear, depending on personal preferences. They are also not water-resistant, which means you need to be cautious in damp environments. Additionally, while the sound quality is generally excellent, users who prefer a more bass-heavy sound might need to adjust the equalizer settings to meet their taste.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones stand out as a solid choice for travelers seeking noise-cancelling capabilities while flying. With impressive active noise cancellation (ANC), they can significantly reduce airplane noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in music or podcasts. The added Transparency mode is great for when you need to be aware of your surroundings, such as during boarding or announcements.

Comfort-wise, these over-ear headphones are designed for longer wear, making them suitable for extended flights. Weighing in at 9.17 oz, they are relatively lightweight but may still feel bulky for some users after prolonged use. It’s important to try them on if you have smaller ears, as the ear cups may not fit everyone perfectly.

Battery life is another strong point, offering up to 40 hours of playback, which means you can easily get through long-haul flights without worrying about recharging. The Fast Fuel feature is particularly handy, providing four hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. However, it's worth noting that these headphones do not have water resistance, making them less ideal for any humid or wet conditions. Sound quality is excellent, thanks to Beats' custom acoustic platform, and the personalized spatial audio feature enhances the listening experience, especially for music and movies. They also have robust connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless pairing with Apple and Android devices, as well as a wired option if needed. One potential drawback is the lack of a dedicated app for sound customization, which some users may expect from high-end headphones. Additionally, while they include a carrying case, they may still take up a bit of space in your carry-on.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones are well-equipped for airplane travel with their effective noise cancellation, long battery life, and quality sound. They are suitable for users looking for comfort and immersive audio experiences, though it’s wise to consider their size and fit for personal comfort.

The Sony WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones are designed with travelers in mind, especially for those long flights where comfort and sound quality are essential. Weighing just 192g, they are incredibly lightweight, making them ideal for extended wear on airplanes. Their dual noise sensor technology significantly enhances noise cancellation, allowing users to enjoy their music or movies without distractions from engine noise or chatter.

When it comes to comfort, the headphones shine with a super comfortable fit that should keep you at ease throughout your journey. Additionally, the long battery life of up to 35 hours ensures they will last for multiple flights without needing a recharge, and the quick charging feature is a fantastic bonus for last-minute needs.

The sound quality is impressive, thanks to the Integrated Processor V1 and Digital Sound Enhancement Engine, which provide clear, balanced audio and natural vocals. It's also equipped with features like adjustable ambient sound mode and adaptive sound control, which are handy when you want to stay aware of your surroundings while still enjoying your audio. In terms of connectivity, the WH-CH720N supports Bluetooth 5.2 and multipoint connection, allowing users to switch seamlessly between devices, which is quite practical for frequent flyers who might need to change from a phone to a tablet.