Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Airplane Travel in 2025

Airplane travel can be noisy and stressful, especially with constant engine hum, chatty passengers, and crying babies. That’s where noise-cancelling headphones come in. In 2025, headphone technology has evolved to provide even better sound quality, longer battery life, and advanced features perfect for frequent flyers. Here are the top noise-cancelling headphones to make your flight serene and enjoyable.

1. Sony WH-1000XM6

• Industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
• Up to 40 hours of battery life
• Speak-to-chat auto pause feature
• Improved comfort with plush ear cups
• Supports multipoint connection

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

• Renowned for comfortable fit and premium ANC
• Immersive spatial audio experience
• Adjustable EQ via Bose app
• Foldable and lightweight design
• Up to 30 hours of wireless playtime

3. Apple AirPods Max (2025 Model)

• Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
• Computational audio with dynamic head tracking
• Stainless steel frame with memory foam ear cushions
• Up to 25 hours of listening on a single charge
• Excellent transparency mode for announcements

4. Sennheiser Momentum 5 Wireless

• Exceptional audio fidelity with deep bass
• Smart pause and auto on/off functions
• Hybrid ANC with transparency mode
• Leather-wrapped memory foam pads for comfort
• 60-hour battery life with ANC off

5. Bowers & Wilkins PX8

• Premium materials: aluminum frame and Nappa leather
• Powerful ANC with 6 microphones
• 40mm carbon cone drivers for audiophile-level sound
• 30 hours battery life with quick charge feature
• Ideal for luxury travelers and long flights

6. Anker Soundcore Space One

• Budget-friendly with high-end features
• 98% noise reduction capability
• Adaptive ANC and 2-hour charge for 40-hour playtime
• Comfortable fit with memory foam design
• Great value for casual travelers

7. Jabra Elite 10 Over-Ear

• Designed for frequent flyers and commuters
• Smart noise-canceling that adapts to surroundings
• Google Assistant and Alexa integration
• Lightweight with travel-friendly foldable design
• Dual connectivity for laptop and phone

8. Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2

• Studio-quality sound for audiophiles
• Advanced hybrid ANC and environment mode
• Long-lasting battery up to 45 hours
• Premium build with replaceable ear pads
• USB-C quick charging support

9. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95

• Luxurious design with titanium and lambskin leather
• Powerful ANC and precision acoustic tuning
• 38 hours of playtime even with ANC
• Magnetic detachable earcups
• High-end pick for style-conscious travelers

10. Cleer Alpha Adaptive ANC Headphones

• Qualcomm Adaptive ANC for custom sound control
• Support for high-resolution wireless audio
• 35 hours of playback with ANC
• Swivel-fold design with hard case
• Voice assistant compatibility

What to Look for in Airplane Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Noise-Cancelling Quality

• Look for hybrid or adaptive ANC for airplane environments
• Important for long-haul flights and busy terminals

Battery Life

• Minimum 25 hours with ANC enabled is ideal
• Quick-charge options for short layovers

Comfort & Fit

• Soft memory foam and adjustable headbands
• Lightweight designs reduce ear fatigue

Portability

• Foldable or flat-fold design for easy packing
• Carry case for added protection

Audio Quality

• Balanced tuning for clear highs, mids, and bass
• Support for AAC, aptX, or LDAC codecs

Travel Tips for Using Noise-Cancelling Headphones

• Pre-download music or shows before your flight
• Use airplane adapter if needed for in-flight entertainment
• Keep headphones charged with a portable power bank
• Switch to ambient/transparency mode for announcements
• Store in carry-on to prevent damage or loss

Conclusion

Noise-cancelling headphones are a must-have for any frequent flyer. In 2025, brands like Sony, Bose, and Apple are pushing the boundaries with smarter ANC, enhanced sound, and better comfort. Whether you're a business traveler, remote worker, or vacationer, investing in the right pair ensures a peaceful, immersive, and enjoyable journey. Choose a pair from this list, and turn every flight into a quiet retreat above the clouds.