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If you’re new to wearing hearing aids, you upgraded to a different style of hearing aid, or you just haven’t been on a plane recently, you might have some travel-related questions. Between airport security, in-flight entertainment, and managing your hearing aids through your journey, there are a lot of factors to consider.
It’s worth noting that while the thought of wearing your hearing aids on a plane can be a bit daunting at first, it will actually improve your flying experience.
At Archer Hearing Centre, our Markham, Ontario audiologists are here to help make your travels as smooth as possible. Below, we’ve answered the common questions we receive about air travel with hearing aids.
You can absolutely fly with hearing aids! They help you stay connected and ensure you're able to hear any important announcements. You don’t even have to turn them off during takeoff and landing like you do with cellphones and other electronics.
If you do want to take them out during the flight, or you’re having trouble with the background noise, it’s a good idea to let a flight attendant know so they can keep you informed. Most airlines will also provide safety information in written or visual format.
Flying with Bluetooth hearing aids is safe. Airlines often ask passengers to disable Bluetooth on their devices, but this doesn’t apply to Bluetooth hearing aids. Because the hearing aids operate at a low power level, they don’t interfere with aircraft systems. As with other types of hearing aids, you can leave them on for the duration of the flight.
Wondering about flying with hearing aid batteries? Technically, you can pack hearing aid batteries in either your carry-on or your checked luggage when flying.
We recommend packing them in your carry-on though, especially if they’re lithium batteries. The cargo hold can experience extreme temperatures, which could impact their performance. Having them on-hand in your carry-on also ensures you’re prepared if you experience a long delay or your luggage gets lost.
A sturdy hearing aid travel case is a must. It will keep your hearing aids safe should you take them out and allows you to have all of your essentials in one place. When travelling, consider including the following in your case:
Not usually, because most hearing aid charger wall plugs have the voltage converter built in (i.e., the input voltage is listed on it as 100-240). That said, it’s good to confirm that this is true for your device, so you don’t accidentally fry your hearing aids. This is also a good reason to always use the original cable and wall plug that came with the hearing aid charger, rather than switching them out for different ones.
Yes. According to regulations from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), you don’t need to remove your hearing aids or devices when going through airport security. The screening officer will visually inspect them while you’re wearing them.
You also do not need to bring documentation for medical needs or conditions, including hearing aids and cochlear implants (unless you’re more comfortable bringing this documentation, because you feel it will help with the screening process).
CATSA does note, “As hearing aids, devices, and cochlear implants (with a transmitter coil and microphone), or external devices, such as components worn on a belt or carried in a pocket, could be affected by X-ray and metal detector technology, CATSA recommends you ask for a full body scan or physical search.”
Yes, hearing aid chargers can go through airport security too. Just like you do with other types of electronic devices, you’ll place your charger in the bin for x-ray screening. Pack your hearing aid charger in an easy-to-reach spot in your carry-on bag, so you can quickly remove it when it’s your turn to go through security.
While in-flight entertainment systems are becoming more accessible, some lag behind with certain airlines even lacking the basics like closed captioning.
Though it will depend on the airline you’re using, here are some options for using hearing aids with airplane entertainment:
Some people experience temporary airplane hearing loss or a stuffed up feeling in their ears, particularly during takeoff and landing. This is due to changes in air pressure. Try chewing gum, swallowing, or yawning to open the eustachian tubes. If the issue persists after your flight, be sure to talk to your audiologist.
With the right preparation, flying with hearing aids will be a breeze. At Archer Hearing Centre, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions about travelling with hearing aids or need help finding the right devices for your unique needs, book a consultation at our Markham hearing clinic today. Safe travels!