If you’re a frequent traveler, you know how important it is to have some form of entertainment during long flights. Whether it’s watching your favorite TV show or movie, listening to music, or playing games, having something to keep you occupied can make a big difference in your journey.
And if you’ve got Airpods, you know how convenient and immersive they can be. But can you connect them to an airplane TV? The answer is yes!
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to do it in a few simple steps.
1. Can You Wear AirPods on a Plane?
Yes, you can wear AirPods on a plane!
Airlines generally allow Bluetooth headphones, including Airpods, once the plane has reached its cruising altitude and the crew gives the go-ahead to use electronic devices. However, you may need to switch off your Airpods during takeoff and landing as a safety precaution.
Can you wear Airpods on a plane? Yes, mostly you can. But you may be asked to turn them off during the takeoff and landing.
Remember, the rules may vary depending on the airline, so it’s always a good idea to check with your flight attendant if you’re unsure.
2. How to Connect Airpods to Airplane TV? It Requires an Adapter
Now, let’s walk through the process of pairing your Airpods to an airplane’s in-flight entertainment system. It’s a simple process that should only take a few minutes. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Check the Availability of Airplane TV (Entertainment System)
Before you attempt to connect your Airpods to an airplane TV, make sure the TV is available on the flight you’re taking. Not all airplanes have TVs on board, and those that do may not offer them in every cabin or class. So, check with your airline or look up your flight details (and check the plane model online) to see if this option is available to you.
Step 2: Pair Your Airpods with an Airpods Airplane Adapter (You Will Need to Buy It Before the Flight)
Next, you will need an adapter.
There are many Airpods airplane adapters to choose from.
AirFly Pro by Twelve South is one of the most popular bluetooth airplane adapters on the internet. It’s small, reliable and multifunctional. You can use this adapter both for Airpods and other Bluetooth earphones.
To do the pairing, follow adapters manual.
Don’t forget that mostly to enter pairing mode, AirPods need to be placed inside the AirPod Case. It is also advisable to turn off nearby Bluetooth devices, such as your phone, when pairing on airplanes.
It shouldn’t take you more than 1 minute.
Step 3: You Are All Set Up (Yes, That’s It)
Once you’ve done the previous step, you should be able to hear the sound from the airplane TV through your Airpods. Adjust the volume on your Airpods to your liking and sit back and enjoy the show!
Step 4: Unplug and Store
Once you’re done watching or listening, don’t forget to unplug your Airpods from the TV and store them safely. You may also want to wipe them down with a sanitizing wipe, as airplane cabins are notoriously germ-filled.
3. Best AirPods Airplane Adapter
When it comes to choosing the best AirPods airplane adapter, you’ll have plenty of options to consider. Bluetooth earphones are getting only more and more popular, accordingly the market offers a wide range of airplane Bluetooth adapter choices (and simply – Bluetooth adapters for TV, etc.), the cheapest ones starting from a few bucks.
To help you navigate through this vast selection, let me introduce you to not just one or two, but four top contenders. Here they are:
- Twelve South AirFly Pro: This adapter is a popular choice for its sleek design and impressive functionality. It can connect to up to two pairs of AirPods simultaneously and boasts a 25+ hour battery life. 25 hours is enough also for the longest connecting flights.
- MEE audio Connect: This adapter is designed specifically for airplanes, and offers easy connection to most in-flight entertainment systems. Its battery life is around 20 hours (15 hours – when used with two pairs of headphones), ensuring you’re covered for even the longest flights.
- TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter and Receiver: It’s cheap. It’s reliable. It can be used with two pairs of headphones or earphones simultaneously. The only downside is its battery life – only around 10 hours.
- TROND 2-in-1 Bluetooth V5.2 Transmitter Receiver: This adapter has both transmit and receive modes and can simultaneously be used with two pairs of headphones or speakers. When it used in receiver mode, it can help you connect your phone or laptop with “regular speakers” wirelessly.
Using Airpods on an Airplane: FAQ
1. Can All Models of AirPods Be Used with Airplane TVs?
Yes, all models of AirPods can be used with airplane TVs.
However, an Apple Airpods adapter will be needed for the connection, and this applies to other Bluetooth headphones/earphones as well.
2. Is It Possible to Use AirPods During Takeoff and Landing?
Airlines generally require passengers to switch off electronic devices, including AirPods, during takeoff and landing. This is for safety reasons, so it’s important to follow the instructions given by the crew.
However, some airlines may allow Bluetooth headphones to be used at all times, including takeoff and landing.
3. Do All Flights Offer In-Flight Entertainment Systems with TV?
Not all flights offer in-flight entertainment systems.
If it’s very important to you, it is recommended to check with your airline about the availability of services prior to your flight. You can also check the ticket, see what airplane is going to be used, and then check its features online.
Many low-cost airlines don’t offer this feature.
4. Can I Connect My AirPods to the In-Flight System Even If I Don’t Have an Adapter?
No, without an adapter, you won’t be able to connect your AirPods to the airplane’s in-flight TV system.
5. Is There Any Harm in Leaving My AirPods Connected to the TV System After I’ve Finished Watching?
To avoid unnecessary battery drain, it’s best to disconnect your AirPods after use. Additionally, proper storage is important to prevent loss or damage.
Other than that, there’s no harm!
6. What Type of Adapter Do I Need to Connect My AirPods to the Airplane TV?
A Bluetooth transmitter that connects to the airplane TV’s headphone jack is required. These can be found online or in electronics stores.
7. Can I Share My AirPods with Another Passenger?
One of your AirPods can be shared with another passenger.
However, this will likely affect the volume and sound quality.
Additionally, it is often possible to connect two pairs of earphones to one adapter, allowing two people to watch a movie or listen to the same music simultaneously. These can be different earphone/headphone models.
8. What Should I Do If I Can’t Connect My AirPods to the Airplane TV?
If you’re having trouble connecting, try resetting your AirPods and restarting the pairing process. If problems persist, it could be a malfunction with the airplane TV or your Bluetooth transmitter.
If possible, you can check the TV by connecting regular earphones provided by the airline. This way you’ll know if the system is even working.
9. Can I Charge My AirPods on the Plane?
If you have a USB charging cable and the airplane seat has a USB port, you can charge your AirPods on the plane.
10. What Type of Content Can I Watch on the Airplane TV?
The content available on airplane TVs varies by airline and flight, but it generally includes a selection of movies, TV shows, and music.
Read more: The Art of Comfortable Flying – Accessories and Tips for Better Air Travel
Featured photo by Dina Nasyrova
About the author:
Kaspars is a digital nomad and travel blogger who’s been traveling the world extensively since 2013. Since 2017, Kaspars has been writing about the less-known aspects of air travel, things like air passenger rights laws and regulations. He’s really good at simplifying complex concepts and making them easily understandable. Kaspars favorite airlines are Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines.
