As a frequent traveler and music lover, I did wonder if I can use my AirPods on the plane. “Can you use AirPods on a plane?” Did you ever think about this too?
Well, there can be announcements and instructions on board if it’s safe to use personal electronic devices, including AirPods. But from research and my personal experience, here’s what I can share about using AirPods on the plane.
Can You Use AirPods on a Plane?
Yes. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told airlines in 2013 that they should increase the use of passengers’ “Portable Electronic Devices” (PEDs) during all flights. In that case, many airlines allow AirPods on planes and classify them as PED.
The FAA is the regulatory agency that issues recommendations and grants permission to use electronics on aircraft. However, the final decision over which devices to allow or prohibit rests with each particular airline.
The Transportation Security Authority (TSA) is a different aviation security agency to consult before using AirPods. The best part is that using headphones is not a problem for the TSA.
Headphones are permitted in carry-on and checked luggage, and when passing through security, you are not required to remove your AirPods from your luggage. According to the TSA, you must only take out any personal electronics larger than a mobile phone from your carry-on bag and put them into a container for X-ray screening. Take out your iPad, laptop, gaming console, or whatever else you have, and you can keep smaller electronics like AirPods in your bag.
Reasons to Use AirPods on a Plane?
AirPods are an excellent choice for traveling because of their tiny size that fits in your pocket. Their best feature is that they are wireless. You don’t need to struggle with draping a big set of headphones around the neck and worrying about the cables tangling up with your bag straps.
In addition to outperforming most of their rivals, they feature significantly superior sound quality. Not forgetting, the lightning-fast charging of AirPods is a lifesaver on prolonged journeys. Even if they completely run out of battery, charging them in the case for five minutes will give you hours of listening time.
Do AirPods Work With Airplane Mode?
AirPods work without a hitch in airplane mode. This is because even while the smartphone is in airplane mode, your Bluetooth connection continues to function without needing a cellular data connection. You can continue using the Bluetooth functionality to play the music of your choice, which should also be available offline.
The FAA confirmed that passengers should not use mobile phones during flights in their 2013 report. This is because mobile phones or smartphones employ cellular data, incorporating long-range signaling technology.
Therefore, whether you’re taking off, landing, or are already in the air, you must always keep your phone in airplane mode.
Now, you might be concerned about your AirPods if you activate airplane mode. This should not bother you since Bluetooth operates independently of cellular data.
You may disable cellular data while activating Bluetooth. Plus, FAA’s report indicates that short-range Bluetooth devices can be used on an aircraft.
Therefore, you can still connect your AirPods to your preferred device and play audio from it while flying. AirPods can be used by any device that can connect to Bluetooth.
You should also note that Bluetooth is default disabled while airplane mode is activated. To use it with your AirPods, simply turn it back on.
How to Use AirPods on a Plane
If you wish to use AirPods while traveling by plane, you should ensure they are fully charged. This is due to AirPods’ limited battery life of 4-5 hours after a full charge.
However, if your travel is lengthy (five hours or more), it’s possible that your AirPods won’t last the entire trip. Then you’ll need to put them back in the charging case so they can get a rapid recharge.
Don’t stress about lengthy charging times. Most AirPods require a 15-minute charge and can be used for up to three hours.
But there was one time I flew and my AirPods were totally dead. I did have a powerbank so I was able to charge my AirPods for a bit before using it. Just be sure to have your charging cable handy too!
Using AirPods with the in-flight entertainment systems is the best thing to do while traveling by airline. Airpods are only compatible with some in-flight entertainment systems, so be sure you’re going with an airline that offers the system you want.
Another possibility is to get an AirFly. You can utilize AirPods with an airplane’s in-flight entertainment system by connecting them to the AirFly gadget. The AirFly adapter is a fairly cool device you should look into, especially if you travel frequently.
To connect AirFly to AirPods, follow these steps:
- Ensure to charge the AirFly before boarding the plane.
- In the plane, switch the AirFly on.
- Long press the circle button on the back of your AirPods until it goes to pairing mode.
- Once the AirFly pairs with your AirPod, plug it into the plane’s seat tablet.
- From there, you can enjoy your music or movies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do AirPods Work With In-Flight Entertainment?
Sadly, Bluetooth is incompatible with most in-flight entertainment systems, so you can’t connect AirPods to the In-Flight Entertainment. You should typically use the complimentary headphones that are given to you. Alternatively, use your own wired headphones if you’ve brought them with you.
In addition, you can use AirFly Adapter to help you connect your AirPods to the in-flight entertainment.
Do AirPods Stop Your Ears From Popping on the Plane?
No, putting on headphones before takeoff does not work. On the other hand, using filtered earplugs, yawning and swallowing, or chewing gum may help.
Does the Noise Cancellation Feature Make AirPods Pro Good for Flights?
Yes, active noise canceling is far superior. When using the AirPods Pro while flying, you hardly notice the background sounds of the aircraft.
Will AirPods Work on a Plane Without WiFi?
Your AirPods will function properly without WiFi on a flight because you only need to connect it to Bluetooth. Your AirPods do not connect to your phone using wifi. They even function when the cellular data on your smartphone is disabled.
Do Airlines Have Different Rules on Headphones?
Although it is generally agreed that using headphones while traveling is legal, it is always advisable to verify with your airline first.
Each airline will provide different guidelines about the kinds of headphones you can bring on board and when you can and cannot use them. As a result, if you want to bring your favorite headphones with you on a flight, check online beforehand.
Wrapping Up
Although it is generally agreed that using headphones while traveling is legal, it is always advisable to verify with your airline first.
Each airline will provide different guidelines about the kinds of headphones you can bring on board and when you can and cannot use them. As a result, if you want to bring your favorite headphones with you on a flight, check online beforehand.
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