3 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Air Travel in 2025
Traveling soon? You’ll want headphones that block out the roar of engines and chatter, keeping you focused or relaxed. The right noise-canceling model can make or break your flight experience — from advanced adaptive tech to long battery life, these features matter. Whether you prioritize comfort, clarity, or ease of use, I’ve got some top contenders that might just redefine your flying routine. Curious which ones actually deliver? Keep going to discover the best options for your next journey.
Sony WH-1000XM6 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise...
- CO-CREATED WITH MASTERING AUDIO ENGINEERS: Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering audio engineers, these headphones deliver...
- HD NOISE CANCELING PROCESSOR QN3: The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 is 7x faster than the QN1 (found in our WH-1000XM5 headphones), optimizing...
If you want headphones that block out noise, the Sony WH-1000XM6 is a good choice. These headphones are built to cut out loud sounds like airport noise and airplane engines. They use the HD NC Processor QN3, which is seven times faster than older models. This helps them cancel noise better by using 12 microphones that work in real time. They block about 87% of outside noise, which is better than many other headphones. When you make calls, six microphones focus on your voice and reduce the background sounds. The headphones are lightweight, so they’re comfortable to wear for a long time. They last up to 30 hours on a single charge and charge quickly. This makes flying or traveling more peaceful and easy.
Who should get these? They are great for travelers and anyone who wants noise reduction, clear sound, and comfort for long listening sessions.
Pros:
- Top noise cancellation blocks about 87% of outside sounds, perfect for noisy places like airports.
- Clear sound quality with customizable settings in the app.
- Up to 30 hours of use on a single charge, plus quick charging.
Cons:
- Some people find the ear cups might not fit all ears well, or sensors can stick out a bit.
- Matte finishes can get fingerprints easily, and charging cables are short.
- Sometimes, sound or connection issues happen, but they often get fixed with updates or replacements.
Belkin SoundForm Surround Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones
- ALL-DAY BATTERY + CLEAR CALL TECHNOLOGY: 60 hours of battery life keeps your headphones working all day with a single charge. Plus, Surround's...
- BLUETOOTH MULTIPOINT 2-DEVICE CONNECTION: Stay connected to 2 devices at once; enjoy a seamless transition from your laptop to your iPhone and...
- BELKIN SIGNATURE SOUND: Designed with 40mm drivers, Surround delivers captivating sound that makes each listening experience feel like your own...
Looking for headphones that can last through long flights without losing sound quality or comfort? The Belkin SoundForm Surround Bluetooth over-ear headphones might be just what you need. They have an impressive battery life of up to 60 hours. That means you can listen all day and not worry about charging. These headphones also have noise cancellation and a built-in mic. This helps your calls stay clear, even if you are in a noisy place like a plane or train. Plus, they use Bluetooth 5.4 and can connect to two devices at once. The ear cups are soft and foldable, making them easy to pack and comfortable to wear for long periods. They are made with eco-friendly materials, so they are good for the planet too.
Best For: travelers and commuters who want long-lasting, comfortable headphones with good sound and noise control.
Pros:
- Lasts up to 60 hours on a single charge
- Noise cancellation and built-in mic for clear calls
- Foldable and lightweight, easy to carry and wear
Cons:
- Some people say the sound feels less natural than higher-end models
- Comfort can change depending on the shape of your head and ears
- Slightly bulky for small travel bags
Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
- Incredible Sound Loved by 20 Million+ People
- Hi-Res Audio: Custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res sound. Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones reproduce music with...
- Reduce Ambient Noises By Up to 90%: Our team of engineers conducted more than 100,000 tests in real-life scenarios to fine-tune Life Q20’s 4...
If you fly often or take trips now and then, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great choice. They do a good job of blocking out noise. These headphones can reduce up to 90% of background sounds. That means engine noise and chatter won’t bother you as much. They were tested in over 100,000 real flights and busy places. The 40mm drivers make the sound clear and detailed. They can handle frequencies up to 40 kHz, so you get high-quality audio. The BassUp technology makes the bass deeper when you want it. If you love bass-heavy music like EDM, you’ll enjoy this feature.
These headphones last a long time. You can listen for up to 60 hours on a single charge. If you’re short on time, a quick charge gives you hours of listening. This makes them perfect for long trips or regular travel.
Who should get these? Anyone who travels or commutes and wants good noise cancelling, clear sound, and long battery life.
Pros:
- Up to 60 hours of using the headphones with noise cancelling on.
- Blocks out up to 90% of noise, making noisy places less annoying.
- Clear sound with deep bass, thanks to the large 40mm drivers and high-res audio.
Cons:
- They are bigger and can be less portable than small earbuds.
- The noise cancelling uses battery, so you need to recharge often during long use.
- The ear cups might not feel very breathable after long hours.
These headphones are great if you want peace and good sound on your trips. They last a long time and can block out a lot of noise, making your travel more comfortable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Air Travel
When picking noise-canceling headphones for air travel, you want to focus on how well they block out engine noise and chatter—because, let’s face it, nobody wants to feel like they’re in a rocket. Comfort and fit matter just as much, so you won’t be stuck trying to wiggle into headphones that turn into a headband after an hour. Plus, consider battery life and connectivity options; after all, nobody likes a dead headphone or tangled cords mid-flight, right?
Noise Cancellation Effectiveness
Noise cancellation in headphones is an important thing to think about when you buy for air travel. Good quality headphones can block out about 87% of outside noise or more. This makes flying much quieter and more comfortable. Many advanced headphones use real-time processing and have six or more microphones. These help adjust the noise reduction quickly, based on what’s happening around you. This makes it easier to block out engine sounds and low humming noises, which are the loudest during flights. Keep in mind, things like wind or microphone placement can affect how well noise cancellation works. Some noise might still get through. Ratings that show how much noise is reduced in decibels can help you compare options. But the most important thing is to pick headphones that do a good job of blocking out the constant drone sounds. This makes your flight calmer and more enjoyable.
Comfort and Fit
Choosing the right noise-canceling headphones for flying is not just about blocking noise. Comfort matters too. Look for headphones with an adjustable headband. This helps them fit your head just right. Soft ear cushions are good because they press gently and do not hurt your ears. Over-ear headphones that cover your ears fully usually feel more comfortable and block out noise better. On-ear and in-ear headphones can start to feel tight after a while.
Use lightweight materials like plastic or foam. These make the headphones easier to wear for long times. A snug fit keeps the headphones from slipping during turbulence or quick head turns. This helps keep noise canceling working well. Breathable ear padding helps your ears stay cool. It also keeps your ears from getting hot during long flights, even if the air inside the plane gets stuffy.
Battery Life Duration
Battery life is very important when choosing noise-canceling headphones for travel. If you fly a long way, you want headphones that last. Most headphones give you 20 to 30 hours of use on one charge. This means you can enjoy your music or movies without worrying about running out of power. Some headphones have quick-charging feature. Just a few minutes of charging can give you several hours of listening time. This is helpful if your flight or delay is longer than expected. Keep an eye on the battery indicator. You can find it on the headphones or an app. It shows you when it’s time to recharge. For longer trips, try to pick headphones with at least 30 hours of battery life. This way, they won’t die in the middle of your flight. Keep in mind, using noise cancellation or listening at high volume can drain the battery faster. So, plan accordingly to get the most from your headphones.
Connectivity Options
To enjoy your noise-canceling headphones while traveling, it’s important to check how they connect. Look for models with Bluetooth 5.3 or newer. This helps the headphones stay connected well, even in busy places like airplanes. Make sure they work with different devices—your phone, tablet, or laptop—so you can use them in many situations. It’s also good to have a wired option using AUX or USB-C. This can be your backup if the battery runs out or if Bluetooth stops working. Some headphones can connect to two devices at once. This makes switching between your phone and laptop easier. Finally, check the wireless range. A range of at least 10 meters (33 feet) gives you the freedom to move around your seat without losing sound.
Sound Quality Precision
Good sound quality is important when you listen to music or talk on the phone. Noise-canceling headphones can help you hear better, even in noisy places like on a plane. These headphones make sounds clear and detailed. They use special drivers and settings to make the music sound just right, so you can hear everything clearly. Noise reduction technology blocks out most outside noise, sometimes over 90 percent. This makes your listening experience feel like you are in a quiet room. Some headphones let you choose different sound modes or change the equalizer settings. This means you can switch to relaxing music, focus better, or enjoy energetic songs. Many models support high-quality audio and have good microphones. This helps you stay connected and enjoy clear calls without losing sound quality.
Portability and Design
Choosing the right noise-canceling headphones for air travel depends a lot on how easy they are to carry and use. Pick headphones that fold or are small enough to fit in your bag easily. Big, bulky headphones can take up too much space, so look for lightweight ones that weigh less than 12 ounces. Lighter headphones help you stay comfortable during long flights, even if you wear them for hours.
Comfort is important, too. Find headphones with adjustable headbands and soft ear cups. This helps them fit snugly but gently on your head and ears. Even after long use, they should still feel comfortable.
Also, pick headphones with a sturdy case. A good case protects your headphones from bumps and scratches so they stay in good shape. Some headphones can connect to multiple devices, like your phone and tablet, without fussing. This makes switching between devices quick and easy, so you don’t have to keep reconnecting them.
FAQs
How Do Noise-Canceling Headphones Affect Battery Life During Long Flights?
Noise-canceling headphones can drain your battery faster on long flights because active noise cancellation requires power. Make sure to fully charge them beforehand, and consider using passive mode when noise cancellation isn’t necessary to conserve battery life.
Can Noise-Canceling Headphones Be Used With In-Flight Entertainment Systems?
You can definitely use noise-canceling headphones with in-flight entertainment systems. Just connect them via Bluetooth or an audio jack, ensuring compatibility with your device. This way, you enjoy the audio seamlessly while cancelling out cabin noise.
Are Noise-Canceling Headphones Safe to Wear During Takeoff and Landing?
During takeoff and landing, you can wear noise-canceling headphones safely if they’re comfortable and properly fitted. They won’t interfere with the cabin’s safety instructions, but always stay alert and follow crew advice for a smooth flight.
How Do Different Noise-Canceling Technologies Compare in Effectiveness?
You compare noise-canceling technologies by their ability to block various sound frequencies, with active noise canceling providing better overall reduction, while passive methods rely on physical barriers. Choose headphones combining both for maximum effectiveness during flights.
Do Noise-Canceling Headphones Require Maintenance or Special Care?
Noise-canceling headphones need regular cleaning and proper storage to maintain performance. You should also check batteries or charging regularly, avoid moisture, and handle them gently to prolong their lifespan and guarantee continued effective noise reduction.
Meet Amelia Raina, the adventurous soul behind TravelersEnthusiasm.com. With a heart set on exploration, she crafts tales that whisk readers from European alleys to Asian landscapes. Raina’s stories are genuine, reflecting her deep connections and reverence for diverse cultures. When not traveling, she’s sketching in cafes or exchanging tales with fellow wanderers.
Last update on 2025-08-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API