Ear pain on a plane is one of the most common discomforts of flying. It shows up especially during take-off and landing, when the cabin air pressure changes quickly. The medical term is airplane ear (ear barotrauma), and the good news is that in most cases it's easy to prevent with simple tricks. This guide explains why it happens and offers 7 practical methods — useful for any traveler, and especially on a long-haul flight.
Why your ears hurt when flying
The middle ear is connected to the back of the nose by a narrow channel — the Eustachian tube. This tube keeps the pressure balanced between the middle ear and your surroundings. When the plane climbs or descends quickly, the cabin pressure changes faster than the Eustachian tube can equalize — the eardrum is stretched, and you feel pain, blockage or a 'ball' sensation.
Take-off and landing — the critical moments
The biggest discomfort comes during descent, because pressure rises and pushes the eardrum inward. That's why the main rule is: don't sleep through the descent. When the crew announces the start of the descent, wake up and start equalizing — before the pain appears, not after.
During the cruise phase the pressure is stable and your ears usually stop bothering you.
7 ways to avoid the pain
- Swallow — frequent swallowing of water or saliva opens the Eustachian tube; carry a water bottle
- Chew — gum or a hard candy during take-off and landing naturally triggers swallowing
- Valsalva maneuver — pinch your nose, close your mouth and gently 'blow' until you feel your ears pop
- Gentle yawning — a deliberate yawn effectively opens the tube
- EarPlanes-type filtered earplugs — slow down the pressure change; available at pharmacies
- Decongestant — taken 30-60 minutes before the flight, it reduces swelling (check with a doctor)
- Don't sleep during descent — when awake you swallow often and automatically neutralize the pressure
For babies and small children the best trick is swallowing — give a bottle or pacifier exactly during take-off and landing. More tips in the article 'Flying with Kids: 10 Practical Tips'.
Colds, sinuses and allergies
If you fly with a cold, sinusitis or strong allergies, the Eustachian tube is swollen and equalizes pressure poorly — the pain is worse. In that case plan a decongestant or nasal spray before the flight and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This is just as important as managing jet lag on long routes.
If ear pain, blockage or reduced hearing lasts more than a few hours after the flight, see a doctor — in rare cases the eardrum can be damaged.
Conclusion
Ear pain on a plane is almost always preventable — just swallow and chew frequently during take-off and landing and use the Valsalva maneuver. To plan a more comfortable flight see Surviving a Long Flight: 10 Practical Tips and The Best Time to Fly: Morning, Evening or Night?, and find your ticket in the flight search on Travel365.
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