Are you a fan of podcasts or music, and your favorite travel companion is your reliable Bluetooth headphones? Many folks believe that Bluetooth devices face strict regulations on planes. That is because airlines request you to switch your electronic devices to Airplane Mode on the plane to reduce interruption with the airplane communication systems.
As Bluetooth is a kind of connection, it could cause interference as well. Before carrying the Bluetooth headphones with you, it is crucial to figure out whether you can utilize them during the flight.
Since different airlines have different policies, it can get confusing. But don’t panic. In this article, we will give an answer to the query: Can I use Bluetooth headphones on a plane? So, let’s delve into it!
Understand The Guidelines For Using Bluetooth Headphones On Planes
When you’re flying on a plane, there are some guidelines and rules you need to follow. These guidelines ensure the comfort and safety of the passengers. If you’re a tech-savvy traveler wondering about using Bluetooth headphones on a plane, you can be assured that you can utilize them. However, it depends on the rules of the airline that you are flying with.
The Federal Aviation Administration states that you can use Bluetooth headphones and other electronic devices throughout the whole flight, provided that they’re in airplane mode. Now, let’s break down some of the rules you should follow.
Guidelines For Airplane Mode
Once you are up in the sky and your seatbelt sign is off, make sure to put your device in airplane mode. This mode shuts down every wireless communication like cellular network, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
But don’t worry; you can still activate Bluetooth manually after turning on airplane mode. That way, you can connect to your Bluetooth headphones without hampering the aircraft’s communication systems.
Make Sure Your Headphones Are Completely Charged
Keep in mind that long-haul flights can go on for many hours. Make sure your wireless Bluetooth headphones are completely charged before you enter the plane. While some planes might have USB charging ports, it is a good idea not to depend on them.
Rules For In-Flight Entertainment Systems
Certain newer planes have in-flight entertainment systems that can connect with Bluetooth. But, only some planes have this feature. It is wise to talk with the airline ahead of the flight or bring a corded pair of headphones as a backup.
Respect The Flight Crew
Make sure to follow the instructions from the flight crew at all times. If they tell you to unplug your headphones or shut off your device, do it right away. They are trained experts, and your safety is their top priority.
Guidelines During Takeoff And Landing
Wondering about using Bluetooth headphones during takeoff and landing on a plane? Well, most airlines have this rule where you need to shut down every electronic device during these times, including your Bluetooth headphones. It is crucial to stick to this policy because takeoff and landing are the most important stages of a flight.
How Can You Use Bluetooth Headphones On A Plane?
You can improve the in-flight entertainment experience by using Bluetooth headphones on planes. Follow these steps to link your headphones with this entertainment system.
1st Step
Make sure the Bluetooth feature is turned on for your Bluetooth headphones.
2nd Step
Activate the pairing mode for your Bluetooth headphones. To do this, you need to hold the power button for some period until you see the LED light illuminate.
3rd Step
You have to visit the in-flight entertainment system. Then go to the settings of Bluetooth. Look for available electronic devices and choose your Bluetooth headphones from there. The entertainment system will ask you to submit a code, which is generally found in your headphones’ manual.
4th Step
Check the volume and sound quality after connecting the headphones to make sure they are working properly.
By adhering to these stages, you can link your Bluetooth headphones with the plane’s in-flight entertainment system. As a result, you can get a more immersive and comfortable travel experience.
Certain airlines provide streaming services via personal devices such as tablets or smartphones. In such instances, you can link your Bluetooth headphones with your personal device using the Bluetooth function. Thus, you can get in-flight entertainment without the hassle of cables or wires.
How Can You Activate Bluetooth When Your iPhone Is In Airplane Mode?
On most flights, you’re asked to put your smartphone in Airplane Mode. If you’re new to traveling, you need to know that Airplane Mode shuts down all your device’s radios, cutting off access to the wireless internet, phone network, and Bluetooth. But Airplane Mode is like a switch for all those things.
You can activate Wi-Fi and Bluetooth without turning off Airplane Mode. Just a swipe and a click, and Bluetooth is on. Follow the steps below to activate Bluetooth when your iPhone is in Airplane Mode.
Step 1: When Airplane mode is activated on your iPhone, swipe down from the top right corner. Swipe upward from the bottom of your iPhone’s screen if it has a home button.
Step 2: To enable Bluetooth on your device, simply click the Bluetooth icon that appears grayed out.
Step 3: Now, notice that Bluetooth is still active even though you’re in Airplane mode. You’ll see it light up in bright blue once it’s turned on.
Some phones even simplify this procedure by letting you enable Bluetooth directly from your device’s notification center. To do this on most devices, swipe down from the home screen’s top and click the Bluetooth icon.
The Bluetooth icon appears like an oddly sketched B with two tails extending out to the left. After you’ve switched Bluetooth on, you can pair your headphones with it. Once you are finished, repeat the process to turn Bluetooth off again.
What Are The Advantages Of Using Bluetooth Headphones On Planes?
Now, let’s talk about why wireless Bluetooth headphones can be your best travel partner, particularly when you are on a flight.
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High-Quality Sound
High-quality Bluetooth headphones usually have top-notch sound technologies, which include noise-canceling features. The Soundcore Space One headphones and the Soundcore Space Q45 Noise Cancelling headphones are two examples of such headphones.
These technologies guarantee you get top-quality sound, even in noisy places such as planes. Dive into crystal-clear audio without the interruptions of the plane engine or the chatter around you.
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Dive Into Your Own Little World
Bluetooth headphones give you the power to build your own little world. Whether it is listening to soothing music, a podcast, or getting lost in a movie, these headphones help you break free from the normal noises of the plane.
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Comes With Long-Lasting Battery
Wireless Bluetooth headphones of the modern generation have impressive battery life. Some headphones can keep going for around 20 hours on just one charge. That means you have got it covered even on long-haul flights.
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No More Hassle Of Tangled Wires
Think back to the times when it seemed like you spent many hours untangling headphone wires. Well, with wireless Bluetooth headphones, those days are gone. Simply activate them, connect, and you are all set.
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Gives You Extreme Comfort
Bluetooth headphones, particularly the over-the-ear type, are made for comfort. They are adjustable and cushioned, making sure they fit nicely over the ears. It’s especially good for those long-haul flights where you will wear them for a long time.
Dos & Don’ts Of Using Bluetooth Headphones On A Plane
Many travelers now use Bluetooth headphones to enjoy podcasts or music during flights. However, you should note that not every airline has the same rules on their usage. But don’t worry. Below, we will share all the things you should and shouldn’t do when using Bluetooth headphones during a flight.
What Should You Do?
- Carry An Adapter
When using wireless Bluetooth headphones during a flight, make sure that you have an adapter. It will allow you to connect the headphones to a two-pronged headphone jack. Consider buying the Twelve South AirFly adapter, specially designed for wireless Bluetooth headphones.
It comes with a long battery life, is user-friendly, and features a built-in microphone for receiving calls. This adapter is an excellent travel companion that lets you enjoy your favorite movies or music on a plane without any hassle.
- Know Airline Rules
Check your airline’s policies for using electronic devices, like Bluetooth headphones, before you fly. Many airline websites have info about whether Bluetooth headphones are allowed and any restrictions. Below are a few of the airline’s rules that you can check out.
American Airlines: It permits the use of Bluetooth headphones during one stage of the flight, which includes flying. But they cannot be used during landing and takeoff.
Air Canada: This airline lets you use wireless headphones in airplane mode. However, you can only do it after the aircraft goes above 10,000 feet.
United Airlines: This airline allows wireless headphones in airplane mode after the aircraft goes above 10,000 feet.
Delta Air Lines: It allows passengers to use wireless Bluetooth headphones in airplane mode during every stage of the flight.
Emirates: It allows you to use Bluetooth headphones in every stage of flight, provided that you put them in airplane mode.
- Consider The Feelings And Needs Of Those Around You
Remember, you aren’t flying solo on the plane. Be considerate of your fellow passengers by using noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones and keeping the volume level down.
Maintaining a low volume shows your respect and courtesy for others sharing the journey with you. Also, when you use headphones, don’t make loud conversations to maintain a peaceful environment for everyone.
What Shouldn’t You Do?
- Don’t Use Bluetooth Connections For Data Transfer
While it’s okay to use Bluetooth headphones in flight mode, certain airlines discourage data transfer by using Bluetooth connections. For instance, Emirates doesn’t recommend using Bluetooth for data transfer during flights. Using a direct connection or waiting until the plane lands to share data is advised.
- Don’t Forget To Take A Backup Pair Of Headphones
If your Bluetooth headphones lose power or are not approved, have a pair of wired headphones with you. Having a backup pair of corded headphones ensures you can enjoy entertainment during takeoff and landing on multiple airlines.
- Don’t Use These Headphones During Safety Instructions
You need to listen carefully to safety instructions from the cabin crew. Using Bluetooth headphones during these instructions may prevent you from hearing important safety announcements. So, remember to take off your headphones and shut down any electronic devices during this period.
Conclusion
Can I use Bluetooth headphones on a plane? It is a common question for frequent travelers. The answer is definitely yes. Thanks to technological advancements and changing airline rules, using Bluetooth headphones during a flight is very easy. They provide an unmatched audio experience, blocking out background noise and allowing you to fully enjoy your entertainment.
Just make sure to always follow the airline’s policies, adhere to the FAA’s guidelines on wireless devices, and be thoughtful of other passengers. Whether it’s a long-haul flight or a quick domestic flight, Bluetooth headphones are designed to enhance your travel experience.
