10 Best Airplane Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth headphones are a strong choice for travelers and anyone wanting peace on noisy flights. They use active noise cancellation to block out ambient sounds effectively, which is a big plus on airplanes. Comfort is a highlight here—plush ear cushions and a padded headband make them easy to wear for long periods without discomfort. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 24 hours of wireless listening, which easily covers long trips.

Sound quality is clear and balanced, with the added benefit of an adjustable equalizer so you can fine-tune bass, mids, and treble to your liking. The headphones also include two listening modes: full noise cancellation and an aware mode to stay alert when needed. Portability is decent; they come with a protective carrying case and are lightweight enough to carry around comfortably, though their over-ear design means they’re a bit bulkier than earbuds. You can also use them wired if the battery runs out, which adds convenience during travel.

One minor downside is that the charging time is about 2.5 hours, which may feel a bit long if you’re in a hurry, but a 15-minute quick charge gives you a couple of hours of playback. The multipoint Bluetooth feature is great for switching between devices seamlessly. These headphones are well-suited to frequent flyers or anyone seeking effective noise cancellation and comfort on the go, though if you prioritize ultra-compact size, smaller earbuds might be better.

The Beats Solo 4 headphones offer several advantages for travelers, especially those looking for long battery life and comfort. With up to 50 hours of playback and fast charging providing 5 hours from just 10 minutes, you won't have to worry about running out of power on long flights. They are lightweight and designed with soft UltraPlush ear cushions and an ergonomic headband, making wearing them comfortable for hours. The custom acoustic design delivers the powerful, clear audio Beats is known for, and they support high-resolution wired listening as well.

These on-ear headphones use sound isolation rather than active noise cancellation. This means they block some outside noise mainly by physically covering your ears, but they won't cancel out as much airplane cabin hum and engine noise as headphones with active noise cancellation would. For travelers prioritizing blocking ambient noise, this could be a limitation.

Their wireless Bluetooth connectivity is strong and versatile, compatible with both Apple and Android devices, and includes multiple control options along with a built-in microphone for calls or voice assistant use. Portability is decent with a protective fabric case included, though the on-ear design may be bulkier compared to smaller in-ear options. The Beats Solo 4 headphones are a solid choice for those seeking durable, comfortable headphones with excellent battery life and good sound quality for travel, though those needing advanced noise cancellation might consider other models.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a strong contender for anyone looking for premium over-ear headphones, especially suited for travel and airplane use. One of the standout features is their exceptional noise cancellation, powered by advanced technology that allows users to enjoy music or calls without distractions from ambient noise. This makes them ideal for long flights or commutes.

The comfort level is impressive as well—thanks to their soft fit leather design, users can wear them for extended periods with ease, which is a significant advantage on long journeys. With a robust battery life of up to 30 hours, you won't need to worry about recharging frequently, and the quick charge option is a handy feature when you're in a hurry.

However, it’s important to note that these headphones are not water-resistant, so they may not be the best choice for outdoor activities or in wet environments. Additionally, while they are portable, they might feel a bit bulkier compared to some other travel headphones, which could be a consideration if space-saving is a priority. On the connectivity front, the WH-1000XM5 features Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a stable connection with your devices. The touch controls are intuitive, allowing for easy management of music and calls, adding to the user-friendly experience. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the combination of sound quality, comfort, and features makes the Sony WH-1000XM5 a worthwhile investment for dedicated music lovers and frequent travelers.