Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Long Flights

You’re 35,000 feet in the air. A baby is crying two rows behind you. The engine hum feels louder than usual. And the in-flight movie? Practically unwatchable with all that noise.

That’s where a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones saves the day.

If you travel often, investing in the best flight headphones is more than a luxury — it’s essential. Silencing the chaos lets you sleep better, enjoy your music, focus on work, or simply escape into your own world mid-flight.

In this blog, you’ll discover the top noise-cancelling headphones for long flights in 2025, what features truly matter, and how to choose the perfect pair for your journeys.

Ready to fly in peace?

Why Noise-Cancelling Headphones Are a Traveller’s Best Friend

The Science Behind Noise Cancellation

Noise-cancelling headphones aren’t just thicker cushions around your ears. They use smart technology — microphones pick up external sounds, and the headphones produce “anti-noise” to cancel them out.

The result? You hear less of the plane engine, cabin chatter, and unexpected noise around you.

Sleep Better, Arrive Fresher

Long flights mess with your body clock and your nerves. Constant noise keeps your brain alert, even when you’re trying to sleep.

Wearing noise-cancelling headphones:

• Blocks out disruptive sounds
• Lowers stress and anxiety
• Helps you relax or nap more deeply

Arriving refreshed instead of frazzled makes your entire trip smoother.

Entertainment, Upgraded

Airlines’ free headphones? Scratchy, flimsy, and often frustrating. Your own quality travel headphones ensure:

• Clearer movie audio
• Better music quality
• Comfortable, uninterrupted entertainment

Long-haul flights feel much shorter when you can truly enjoy your movies, podcasts, or playlists.

Top Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Long Flights in 2025

Here’s a closer look at the best options trusted by frequent flyers.

1. Sony WH-1000XM5

Elite noise cancellation meets all-day comfort.

Sony’s flagship headphones are a gold standard for flyers seeking a premium experience.

Top Features:

• Industry-leading noise cancellation with dual processors
• 30-hour battery life
• Ultra-comfortable lightweight design
• Quick charge: 3 minutes = 3 hours of playback

Why you’ll love them: Superb at drowning out engine rumble and cabin noise, while feeling feather-light even after hours of wear.

Always activate the “ambient mode” at airports to hear boarding calls without removing your headphones.

Internal Link: Check out more must-have travel gadgets for 2025.

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra

The classic gets even better. Bose’s legendary QuietComfort line has long been a traveller favourite, and the Ultra model in 2025 takes it to the next level.

Top Features:

• World-class active noise cancellation
• 24-hour battery life
• Soft earcups with premium materials
• Customisable sound settings via the app

Why you’ll love them: Smooth, balanced sound and unbeatable comfort, even during 10-hour hauls.

3. Apple AirPods Max

Luxury audio for Apple users. If you use Apple products, AirPods Max fit right in. They also offer great noise cancellation.

Top Features:

• Dynamic head tracking for spatial audio
• Active noise cancellation + transparency mode
• High-fidelity sound performance
• 20-hour battery with ANC and spatial audio on

Why you’ll love them: Movies, music, and video calls feel next-level immersive, especially on long flights.

Internal Link: Stay entertained on the move with our top travel electronics guide.

4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

Audiophile-grade sound with superb noise isolation. Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 combines top-notch audio with a travel-friendly design.

Top Features:

• 42-hour battery life (yes, really)
• Smart Pause feature (music pauses when you remove it)
• Adjustable ANC levels
• Lightweight, foldable frame

Why you’ll love them: Perfect for audiophiles who want long battery life without compromising on comfort.

5. Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e

Beautifully built, beautifully sounding.

British audio giant B&W offers headphones that look as good as they sound.

Top Features:

• Adaptive active noise cancellation
• Up to 30 hours of battery life
• Custom-tuned 40mm drivers for rich sound
• Memory foam ear cushions

Why you’ll love them: A perfect choice if you value elegant design as much as sonic performance.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Headphones

1. Effective Noise Cancellation

This isn’t optional. Good ANC headphones reduce plane engine noise and background chatter by at least 30 decibels.

Look for brands that test and benchmark their noise-cancelling tech.

2. Comfort for Long Wear

You’ll be wearing these for hours. Prioritise:

• Lightweight builds
• Breathable materials
• Soft, padded earcups
• Adjustable headbands

If they start pinching after an hour, they’re not the right choice.

3. Long Battery Life

No one wants their headphones dying mid-flight. Aim for at least 20–30 hours battery life on a single charge.

Quick-charge features are a bonus, too!

4. Sound Quality

Crisp highs, warm mids, and rich bass make everything from podcasts to playlists more enjoyable.

Brands like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser consistently rank at the top for audio clarity.

5. Smart Features

Modern travel headphones often include:

• Transparency modes (hear outside sound without removing headphones)
• Smart pause (auto-stops music when you take them off)
• Multi-device pairing (switch easily between phone and tablet)

These extras make life on the move simpler and more enjoyable.

Conclusion: Your Passport to Peaceful Travel

Flying doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort, sleep, or good sound. With the right noise-cancelling headphones, you can create your own peaceful cocoon, even in the busiest, noisiest cabin.

Whether you go for Sony’s industry leader, Bose’s legendary comfort, or Apple’s sleek integration, investing in the best flight earbuds is one upgrade you’ll appreciate every single mile.