Can you use Bluetooth headphones on a plane? Bluetooth technology has completely changed how people use electronic devices. You can now link multiple devices wirelessly, thereby reducing cable clutter.
Bluetooth headphones are some of the most popular electronic gadgets that people use. However, some factors may limit you from using Bluetooth-enabled devices in certain places.
Before we answer the topical question, let’s go through some relatable scenarios. You are just about to take a long flight with your best carry-on luggagePortable Electronic Devices (PEDs) that you can take with you on an airplane. In this Luggagers article, we are going to cover some of the important things that you need to know about Bluetooth headphones and airplanes.
Without further ado, let’s get right into it;
Can You Use Bluetooth on A Plane?
As of 2013, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) gave a green light on the use of radio-transmitting PEDs on airplanes. As such, you can safely use your Bluetooth headphones during your flight. Nonetheless, it is important to keep in mind that each airline has its usage restrictions.
That being said, you should familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations that govern the use of Bluetooth devices. This will help you know the type of electronic gadgets that you can carry to an airplane.
Also, you will know when to use these devices after boarding your flight. Some airlines allow passengers to use Bluetooth devices throughout the flight, while some may prohibit it at certain times.
Most airlines encourage passengers to switch all Bluetooth-enabled devices to airplane mode, especially when the plane is taking off or landing. Some may also apply this rule when the plane is taxiing.
If you are not sure about the airline regulations, you should consider carrying wired headphones as a backup. Moreover, not all airlines provide regulations on the use of Bluetooth devices. Aside from that, airlines change their regulations from time to time.
The important point that you should take home is that most airlines allow passengers to use Bluetooth but with limitations.
Why Do Some Airlines Prohibit The Use of Bluetooth Headphones In Airplanes?
To answer this question, you need an in-depth understanding of how Bluetooth headphones work, and how they can affect airplanes. In a nutshell, Bluetooth is a short-range communications technology that allows two or more devices to communicate wirelessly.
Bluetooth devices have specialized computer chips that transmit and receive radio waves over short distances. The only problem is that these radio waves can affect the plane in multiple ways. For starters, the radio waves from Bluetooth devices can compromise an airplane’s communication systems.
If this happens, the pilots may have a hard time communicating with the air traffic control. This can cause serious problems during takeoff or when the plane is landing. For your safety and that of those around you, you should always switch off all Bluetooth devices when asked by flight attendants.
Besides affecting the communications system, Bluetooth radio waves can also cause airplane instrumentation to malfunction. As you already know, every component on the airplane has a special role that it plays in ensuring the plane stays airborne.
As such, any slight alteration may cause the airplane to lose some of its functions in mid-air. Such events can lead to disastrous outcomes that may cost lives. Also, when you have your headphones on, you won’t hear the instructions provided by flight attendants.
Universal Airline Rules on the Use of Bluetooth Headphones and Other PEDs
As stated earlier, airlines have different regulations when it comes to the use of Bluetooth headphones and other Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs). Nonetheless, some of the rules cut across the board. This means that certain regulations apply to all airlines from different parts of the world.
One of such rules is that passengers should not carry Bluetooth devices that are larger than a smartphone. This also applies to headphones, so ensure that you carry the right size of Bluetooth headphones. You will be happy to know that this regulation only counts when the headphone is folded.
The other universal aviation rule is that all devices on the plane must have an airplane mode. This is a special setting found in portable devices that send and receive radio waves. Airplane mode can be found on mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc.
This feature is useful because it disables the transmitters and radios found in these devices, thus preventing the transmission of radio waves. As a result, passengers can safely use their devices without interfering with the plane.
Can You Use Bluetooth on Airplane?—Regulations from Top Aviation Regulatory Agencies
When it comes to aviation regulations, each agency oversees the activities of airlines from specific regions around the world. This means that the rules that govern the use of Bluetooth-enabled headphones vary from one agency to another.
As a passenger, you should make it your goal to know all the rules before boarding an airplane. In addition to saving you from getting in trouble with the authorities, you will be at peace knowing that you are doing the right thing.
Here are some of the regulations provided by top agencies;
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
As an agency, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues regulations that keep passengers safe when traveling with airplanes. This agency is in charge of airlines in the United States. As mentioned earlier, the FAA allows passengers to use Bluetooth headphones and other devices during flights.
You can freely use all short-range Portable Electronic Devices without worrying about anything. However, all cellular functions must be disabled using airplane mode.
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
The IATA focuses on providing airlines from different parts of the world with technical standards for safety purposes. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), passengers can use Bluetooth headphones in the non-critical stages of the flight.
However, the agency discourages the use of Bluetooth devices during takeoff, landing, climb, or when the plane is taxiing. These regulations are embraced by large airlines like Air China.
Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA)
The TCCA is somewhat strict when it comes to the use of Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) that transmit radio energy on airplanes.
As such, most Canadian airlines may not allow you to use Bluetooth headphones during flights. To be on the safe side, ensure that your devices are either switched off or on airplane mode. Alternatively, you can use wired headphones.
Which Airlines Allow Passengers To Use Bluetooth Headphones During Flights?
Now that we are done with the airline regulatory agencies, let us look at some of the airlines that allow the use of Bluetooth headphones on airplanes.
Lufthansa
-Has no restrictions on Bluetooth devices, so you can use your headphones throughout the flight.
American Airlines
-The airline allows passengers to use Bluetooth headphones during non-critical stages of flight.
Alaska Air
-Prohibits the use of Bluetooth headphones when the plane is below 10,000 feet.
JetBlue
-JetBlue permits its passengers to use Bluetooth headphones.
Air France
-You can use Bluetooth headphones throughout the flight.
United Airlines
-Has no restrictions on the use of Bluetooth headphones during the flight.
Southwest Airlines
– Discourages its passengers from using Bluetooth headphones during critical stages of the flight.
Porter
-You are allowed to use Bluetooth devices when on flight mode.
Spirit Airlines
-Passengers can freely use Bluetooth headphones throughout the flight.
Ryanair
-Like Spirit Airlines, Ryanair allows passengers to use Bluetooth during the entire flight.
Does Airplane Mode affect Bluetooth?—Can you use Bluetooth headphones on a plane?
Since most airlines require you to switch transmitting devices to airplane mode, can you use Bluetooth on a plane with the airplane mode on? Bluetooth technology allows devices to transmit radio energy to compatible gadgets.
Nonetheless, when the airplane mode is active, the transmitters will stop working. Consequently, no radio waves will be sent. Depending on the type of phone that you are using, the airplane mode may or may not disable Bluetooth.
If the former applies in your case, you can turn on the Bluetooth radios independently by toggling the Bluetooth icon on your device.
Can I Use My Bluetooth Headphones With Airplane In-Flight Entertainment Systems?
Most international airlines provide their passengers with entertainment services to prevent boredom. The airplanes have built-in screens from which you can watch movies, podcasts, and other interesting videos during your flight.
Nonetheless, the entertainment systems on most planes are not as advanced. The fact that they don’t use Bluetooth technology means you cannot pair them with your Bluetooth headphones.
Moreover, a good number still use the outdated two-pin AUX system. To achieve a successful connection, you may have to use additional accessories when linking your Bluetooth headphones to the airplane’s entertainment system.
If this doesn’t work, you will just have to entertain yourself using your phone. Besides, it’s always good to be prepared, especially when taking long flights.
Choosing the Right Bluetooth Headphones for Travel
Bluetooth headphones come in different designs and also vary in terms of performance. Additionally, some Bluetooth headphones offer more comfort compared to others. As such, there are several factors that you should put into consideration when choosing Bluetooth headphones.
Battery Life
This is probably the first thing that you should consider when buying Bluetooth headphones. If you know that you will be taking long flights, you should go for headphones with long-lasting batteries.
Most Bluetooth headphones in the market can last up to eight hours on a single charge. However, this may vary depending on the frequency of use.
Sound Quality
Only go for Bluetooth headphones that can produce near-perfect audio output. This will provide you with an enjoyable listening experience as you will feel the beet to the max.
Build Quality
When buying Bluetooth headphones, you should consider the quality of the materials from which they are made. You can also check if the housing is waterproof.
Comfort
When taking long airplane flights, you may have to wear your Bluetooth headphones for an extended duration. Therefore, it would be wise to buy a pair that is not only wearable but also comfortable.
Still, on comfort, you should go for noise-canceling headphones since they allow you to listen to music more peacefully.
Top 3 Best Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Headphones for Airplane Travel
The market has a plethora of Bluetooth headphones, so settling on a particular option can be a bit challenging. To help you out in choosing the right product, here are some of the best Bluetooth headphones that you can buy.
1. Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones
Bose is proud to present you with a pair of high-performance Bluetooth headphones that you can rely on. Featuring up to three levels of noise cancellation, you can use these headphones just about anywhere. You won’t be affected by background noise, and neither will you distract those around you.
Thanks to its powerful Bluetooth chip, these headphones can pair with compatible devices in a matter of seconds. They will provide you with a frustration-free listening experience in all scenarios. In addition to this, the headphones have amazing personalized settings. As such, you can customize the sound system according to your needs.
By using the Bose Connect app, you will be able to receive system updates regularly. But that is not all; the headphones also feature a dual-microphone system that you can use when answering calls. And because the microphones are noise-rejecting, the person that you are talking to will hear you even in a noisy environment.
Also, the headphones are Alexa-enabled, making them even more convenient. This feature will give you quick and easy access to your music. When it comes to compatibility, the headphones support both Android and iOS operating systems.
The Quietcomfort 35 II comes in black and grey color, so you can choose the shade that matches your preference.
2. Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Overhead Headphones
Sony is one of the reputable brands that you can count on when it comes to designing Bluetooth headphones. The WH-1000XM4 has great features that any user would like. For starters, it comes with a powerful battery that can last up to 30 hours. The duration may, however, vary depending on how often you use the headphones.
To add to this, the battery has a quick charge function, meaning you won’t have to wait for long hours for it to juice up. These headphones will allow you to hear every tune when listening to music. Plus, the adaptive sound control system gives you the freedom to make custom adjustments.
Moreover, the WH-1000XM4 has a straightforward design, thus making it suitable for all users. It supports multiple device pairing and allows for seamless switching from one gadget to another.
The other feature that is worth mentioning is that the headphones have an auto-pause function. With this feature in place, the music won’t continue playing when you take the headphones off.
Unlike most Bluetooth headphones in its class, the WH-1000XM4 has a touch sensor. With the help of this feature you can answer calls, control volume, play music, skip tracks, etc. And since they are padded, you will enjoy long-lasting comfort.
The voice processing system has up to five built-in microphones, allowing for clear sound transmission. Lastly, these headphones are lightweight, so they won’t wear you down even if you wear them for long hours.
3. Anker AK-A3025011 Hybrid Active Noise-Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones
If you are on a tight budget, the AK-A3025011 may just be the right Bluetooth headphones for you. These headphones will provide you with high-quality music in all environments. They can particularly come in handy when taking long international flights, thanks to their comfortable design.
The battery offers up to 40 hours of continuous playtime, making it an ideal option for long-distance travelers. Nonetheless, when the headphones are on standard mode, the battery can last for an impressive 60 hours.
According to the manufacturer, these headphones can reduce ambient noise and will enable you to listen to your favorite tunes with minimal interference. The noise cancellation technology is effective against mid and low-frequency noise.
If you are into EDM music, you will be happy to know that the AK-A3025011 features reliable BassUp technology. It can also perform automatic adjustments for an enhanced listening experience.
The four microphones allow for maximum audio detection. Since the headphones are foldable, you won’t have a hard time fitting them into your travel bag.
Final Verdict
Before boarding an airplane with a backpack, ensure that you go through the regulations provided by the airline. This will help you know whether or not you can use Bluetooth headphones and other Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) during the flight.
Since each airline has its regulations, you should be more careful when boarding international flights. We have also thought it wise to include some of the best noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones that you can use when flying.