Can you use Bluetooth on a plane?

Can you use Bluetooth on a plane?

• You can use Bluetooth on a plane after enabling airplane mode
• You can use wireless Bluetooth headphones on a plane on your own devices
• Bluetooth headphones don't usually connect directly to the plane's in-flight entertainment (IFE) system, as most aircraft still rely on traditional 3.5 mm headphone jacks

Watching a movie or listening to music can be one of the best ways to pass the time during a flight. While wired headphones were once the norm, now Bluetooth is commonplace for wireless devices, and even some seat-back entertainment. If you have a personal device enabled with Bluetooth, you may want to enable it for your next plane trip.

Can you use Bluetooth on a plane?

For years, passengers were told to turn off every single electronic device once the doors closed. The concern was that wireless signals—cellular, Wi-Fi, and even low-power Bluetooth—might interfere with the aircraft's navigation or communication systems. But modern airplanes are shielded, and regulators like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) now allow Bluetooth on flights.

Your phone (or tablet) must remain in airplane mode for the entire flight. Airplane mode shuts off cellular service, which is the primary concern. After that, you're usually free to toggle Bluetooth and Wi-Fi back on.

Airlines may interpret this differently. Some allow Bluetooth throughout the flight, whilst others prefer you wait until the plane reaches cruising altitude. The final call always rests with the cabin crew – if they ask you to switch something off, it's important to comply.

Can you use Bluetooth headphones on a plane?

Whether you're using wireless earbuds, noise-canceling headphones, over-ear models, or Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids, Bluetooth headphones let you listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, or downloaded shows on your personal device.

However, Bluetooth headphones don't usually connect directly to the plane's in-flight entertainment (IFE) system, as most aircraft still rely on traditional 3.5 mm headphone jacks. If the screens don’t yet have Bluetooth, airline attendants will typically hand out wired earbuds so you can plug into the on-screen entertainment.

It's possible to buy a Bluetooth adapter and transmitter for these ports as well. These small devices plug into the headphone jack on the seatback screen and create a Bluetooth signal that your headphones can pick up. They're pocket-sized, affordable, and can be particularly helpful for long-haul flights. You can enjoy in-flight movies with your wireless headphones to keep your seat area wire free.

How to use Bluetooth on airplane mode

Enable airplane mode in your settings

As soon as the boarding door closes, tap the airplane icon on your phone. This switches off your phone's cellular connection, which is required by aviation law.

Tap the Bluetooth icon

Once airplane mode is active, Bluetooth doesn't automatically stay on – you need to switch it back on manually unless you have specified always-on settings. Pull up your phone's control panel or settings and tap the Bluetooth icon, which looks like a Nordic rune shaped like a "B."

Connect your device(s)

Pair your wireless headphones, keyboard, mouse, or a Bluetooth controller if you're gaming on a tablet. The pairing process is the same in-flight as it is at home.

Enjoy your flight

Stream your offline music playlists, dive into an audiobook, or connect by transmitter to the seatback screen. Wireless headphones also double as noise-canceling tools, making the engine hum and surrounding chatter fade into the background.

What are the advantages of Bluetooth?

Convenience

Bluetooth headphones give you complete freedom of movement. You won't get tangled when you reach for a drink, shift in your seat, or enjoy that bag of pretzels.

Noise cancellation

Most wireless headphones come with active noise cancellation (ANC). On a plane, that can reduce the roar of the engines and the ambient chatter around you. You can hear your movie clearly or enjoy peace and quiet.

Multi-device pairing

If you're switching between a phone, tablet, or laptop mid-flight, Bluetooth makes it seamless. No plugging and unplugging required; no adapters needed. A quick tap to swap devices is all it takes.

Battery efficiency

Newer Bluetooth models can last 20–40 hours on a charge, easily covering even long-haul flights. Plus, they charge by USB, the same way most planes now let you charge your phone.

Set yourself up for better sleep

For overnight flights, wireless earbuds can be a good option to take along. You can lean against a pillow or headrest without wires getting in the way, and noise cancellation can help you block out airplane noise for better rest.

Pro tips for Bluetooth headphone users

To make the most of your headphones in-flight, a little preparation goes a long way. Here's what to do before you board:

• Bring a splitter and transmitter combo: Some transmitters allow two sets of Bluetooth headphones to connect to the same seatback movie, which is great if you're traveling with someone.
• Charge before boarding: Not all planes have USB ports at every seat, and noise-canceling headphones use more battery than standard ones.
• Download your own content: Even with Bluetooth transmitters, not every airline has the entertainment library you want. Offline movies and playlists ensure you have something to enjoy.
• Check airline policies: Most major carriers allow Bluetooth, though some budget airlines may have different policies, especially on short-haul flights.

Smooth flying

You can use your Bluetooth wireless headphones and accessories freely, as long as your phone stays in airplane mode. For the most enjoyable flight, come prepared with a fully charged device, your favorite Bluetooth-enabled headphones, and maybe a Bluetooth transmitter if you want the full in-flight entertainment experience without cords.

FAQs

Can Bluetooth be used in airplane mode?

Airplane mode disables the cellular radio but leaves Wi-Fi and Bluetooth available to be switched back on manually. That's why you can still pair headphones or even connect to the airline's Wi-Fi network once airborne.

Why is Bluetooth allowed on planes now?

The original concern was interference with sensitive aircraft instruments, but today's planes are designed to handle low-power Bluetooth signals safely. Airlines may still restrict use during takeoff or landing to maintain focus during critical phases, but that's more about established safety procedures than technical limitations.

Can I use Bluetooth headphones on a plane to watch movies?

You can with a simple solution. Your Bluetooth headphones won't always pair directly with the seatback system, depending on the aircraft’s age and its capabilities, which have traditionally been set up for a wired connection. To bridge the gap, you'll need a Bluetooth transmitter. These plug into the headphone port and let your wireless headphones pair as though you were at home. Travelers love them for overnight flights where comfort is the priority.

Can you use Bluetooth Airpods on a plane?

Wireless earbuds pair perfectly with your own devices in airplane mode. They won't always connect to the seatback system without a transmitter, but for podcasts, music downloads, or offline video content, they're ideal.

Why do we still have to use airplane mode?

Early cell phone regulations were established when wireless communication was less common and airlines were more cautious. Regulators were concerned that radio signals from passengers' devices might interfere with instrument-guided landings or add interference to the cockpit's communications.

These days, airplane mode is primarily about preventing issues for people on the ground who need reliable cellular service. Airplane mode remains a requirement because it switches off the cell radio, protecting ground networks, whilst still letting you re-enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi once you're in the air.

What happens when you don't put your phone in airplane mode whilst flying?

Your phone will drain its battery constantly searching for a signal it can't find. There's also the possibility it can interfere with ground-based cellular networks as the plane passes over towers at high speed, creating issues for both the airline and your carrier. While the chances of actual cockpit interference are minimal, following crew instructions is required by aviation regulations.