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

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-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 Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are designed with travelers in mind, particularly for those long flights where noise cancellation is essential. Their active noise cancellation technology effectively blocks out ambient sounds, creating a peaceful listening environment, which is a significant plus for airplane use. The comfort factor is also impressive, with plush earcup cushions and a padded band that makes them suitable for extended wear, ensuring you won't feel discomfort during long journeys.

One of the standout features is the impressive battery life, offering up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge. This is particularly beneficial for long-haul flights. Additionally, the quick charge option allows for 2.5 hours of use from just a 15-minute charge, which is a lifesaver if you forget to charge before your trip.

Sound quality is another strong point, boasting high-fidelity audio and adjustable EQ settings that let you customize the listening experience according to your preference. This feature enhances both music and calls, making them a versatile choice for various uses. However, while these headphones excel in many areas, they do have some drawbacks. The Bose QuietComfort headphones are not water-resistant, which may be a concern for some users if they are traveling in humid environments. Also, while they offer a wired option, the reliance on battery power for full functionality could pose a challenge if the battery runs low and you're unable to recharge.

In terms of portability, they are relatively lightweight and come with a carrying case, but they might take up a bit of space in your bag compared to more compact models. Lastly, the touch controls can be a bit sensitive, which might lead to accidental adjustments during use.