✈️ Introduction
Traveling by air can be exciting, but airplane noise—crying babies, roaring engines, and constant chatter—can quickly turn your trip into a nightmare. That’s where the best noise cancelling headphones for plane travel come in. Whether you’re flying cross-country or internationally, a reliable pair of noise cancelling headphones can be a game-changer, helping you block distractions and enjoy your music, movies, or podcasts in peace.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top-rated, traveler-approved noise cancelling headphones in 2025 that are perfect for frequent flyers, business travelers, and vacationers alike.
🎧 Why You Need Noise Cancelling Headphones on a Plane
- ✅Block Out Engine Noise: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology reduces low-frequency sounds like engine hums.
- ✅Sleep Better: Drown out crying babies or talkative passengers and get some rest.
- ✅In-Flight Entertainment: Enjoy movies or music with crystal-clear sound.
- ✅Reduce Stress: Ambient noise increases fatigue. ANC headphones keep you calm.
🛫 What to Look for When Buying Plane-Ready ANC Headphones
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Battery Life | Long flights need 20+ hours of playtime. |
| Comfort | Soft ear cups and adjustable headbands prevent fatigue. |
| Portability | Foldable design or carrying case is a plus. |
| Bluetooth & Wired | Dual modes offer flexibility for in-flight use. |
| Noise Cancellation Strength | Strong ANC = better isolation from engine noise. |
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Plane (2025 Top Picks)
✅ 1. Sony WH-1000XM4
- 🔗 Link: Buy on Amazon
- 💵 Price: $199.99
- 🌟 Rating: 4.6/5
- 🔋 Battery: Up to 30 hours
Description:
The Sony WH-1000XM4 continues to set the benchmark for premium travel headphones with its top-tier noise cancellation, 30-hour battery life, and ultra-light design. Whether you’re taking a red-eye or commuting cross-country, its adaptive sound control intelligently adjusts to your surroundings—ideal for airplane cabins. The sleek design features soft synthetic leather earcups and a silent fit for extended wear. Integrated Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility make it easy to control music hands-free. With Bluetooth 5.2, quick charging, and multipoint connectivity, this model is built for convenience on the go. Ideal for frequent flyers, the WH-1000XM5 balances immersive audio, strong ANC, and thoughtful travel features without compromise.
✅ 2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
- 🔗 Link: Buy on Amazon
- 💵 Price: $359.00
- 🌟 Rating: 4.6/5
- 🔋 Battery: 24 hours
Description:
Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra headphones offer a superb blend of rich sound quality and powerful noise cancellation, engineered specifically for travelers. Its upgraded spatial audio and customizable ANC settings make it a great companion for noisy flights or busy airports. The headphones provide a soft, snug fit with plush ear cushions designed to reduce fatigue during long use. With up to 24 hours of battery life and USB-C fast charging, you won’t be caught off guard mid-flight. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection to your devices. Whether you’re listening to music, taking calls, or trying to relax, the Bose QC Ultra delivers a consistently calm and immersive experience for every type of traveler.
✅ 3. Anker Soundcore Space One
- 🔗 Link: Buy on Amazon
- 💵 Price: $48.99
- 🌟 Rating: 4.6/5
- 🔋 Battery: 40 hours (ANC on)
Description:
The Anker Soundcore Space One is a wallet-friendly headphone designed for travelers who want strong performance without a hefty price tag. Featuring hybrid active noise cancellation and 40-hour playtime (ANC on), it’s perfect for both long and short-haul flights. With adjustable transparency levels, you can stay aware of your surroundings when needed. The lightweight build, padded earcups, and foldable design make it easy to pack and comfortable to wear. Sound-wise, it delivers rich mids and deep bass, suitable for a range of media consumption. Its Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity ensures fast pairing and low latency. For under $100, the Space One offers an impressive travel-focused listening experience without sacrificing essential features.
✅ 4. Apple AirPods Max
- 🔗 Link: Buy on Amazon
- 💵 Price: $529.99
- 🌟 Rating: 4.6/5
- 🔋 Battery: 20 hours
Description:
The Apple AirPods Max brings high-fidelity audio and premium craftsmanship together in a sleek, aluminum design. Featuring active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, these headphones are built for immersive listening—especially during flights. The knit mesh headband and memory foam ear cushions provide comfort for extended wear. With up to 20 hours of battery life and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, they’re a perfect fit for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users. The digital crown gives precise volume control and quick access to Siri. Although bulkier than typical travel headphones, their superior build and audio make the AirPods Max a luxurious pick for tech-savvy travelers.
✅ 5. Sennheiser HD 560 S
- 🔗 Link: Buy on Amazon
- 💵 Price: $242.06
- 🌟 Rating: 4.6/5
- 🔋 Battery: N/A (Wired only)
Description:
Designed for audiophiles, the Sennheiser HD 560 S offers a neutral, reference-grade sound signature suited for music lovers who prioritize accuracy. These open-back headphones feature a wide soundstage enabled by E.A.R. (Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement) technology, which aligns the drivers with the natural angle of your ears. Although they lack active noise cancellation, the HD 560 S provides exceptional clarity and detail, making them ideal for quiet environments like hotel rooms or home studios rather than airplane cabins. The detachable cable and lightweight build add flexibility and comfort. While not tailored for flight use, these headphones shine in reproducing lifelike audio with rich mid-tones and an extended low-end response.
📊 Comparison Table: Best Over-Ear Headphones for Travel & Audio Quality
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Bose QC Ultra | Anker Soundcore Space One | Apple AirPods Max | Sennheiser HD 560 S |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$199 | ~$359 | ~$48 | ~$529 | ~$242 |
| Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Noise Cancelling | ✅ Industry-leading | ✅ Adjustable | ✅ Hybrid ANC | ✅ High-end ANC | ❌ (Open-back) |
| Battery Life | 30 hrs | 24 hrs | 40 hrs | 20 hrs | Wired only |
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight | Very light | Heavier | Lightweight |
| Wireless | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Sound Signature | Balanced with deep bass | Warm & immersive | Bass-boosted | Spatial & balanced | Neutral & analytical |
| Best For | Frequent flyers | Business travelers | Budget-conscious flyers | Apple ecosystem users | Audiophiles (not for flights) |
| Wired Option | ✅ (USB-C & 3.5mm) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ (1/4″) |
✈️ Noise Cancelling Earbuds vs. Over-Ear Headphones for Plane
| Over-Ear | Earbuds | |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Isolation | ✅ Better for engine noise | 🟡 Moderate |
| Comfort | ✅ Padded for long use | 🟡 May cause ear fatigue |
| Portability | 🟡 Bulkier | ✅ Pocket-friendly |
| Battery Life | ✅ Longer (20–60 hours) | 🟡 Shorter (4–8 hours) |
🔔 Pro Tip:
Over-ear headphones are best for long international flights. Use earbuds for short domestic hops.
✈️ Bonus Tips for Flying with ANC Headphones
- ✅ Carry a 3.5mm adapter for in-flight entertainment.
- ✅ Charge your headphones before departure.
- ✅ Use the airplane mode + wired connection combo for battery efficiency.
- ✅ Pack them in a hard case to protect from luggage damage.
🙋♂️ FAQs
Q1: Can I use Bluetooth headphones on planes?
Yes, Bluetooth is allowed during most flight phases, especially cruise. Use airplane mode + wired backup just in case.
Q2: Do noise cancelling headphones block all noise?
Not all—but ANC reduces engine hum and ambient chatter significantly. Pair with soft music or white noise for full immersion.
Q3: Are expensive models worth it?
Absolutely. Premium models like Sony or Bose offer better ANC, comfort, and durability—ideal for frequent flyers.
✅ Final Thought
Whether you’re a business traveler chasing deadlines or a casual vacationer chasing clouds, a quality pair of noise cancelling headphones for plane travel can redefine your flying experience. From Sony’s intelligent noise cancellation to Sound core’s budget brilliance, these 2025 picks cater to every budget and traveler. Invest in peace of mind—and sound—today.
🛍️ Ready to upgrade your flight experience? Tap into silence with one of our top picks today.