How to Stop Ear Pain on Flights
Quick answer
Ear pain on flights (sometimes called aeroplane ear) happens when cabin pressure changes faster than your middle ear can adjust, mostly during descent. You can usually prevent it by actively equalising — swallowing, yawning, chewing gum, or gently blowing against a pinched nose — repeatedly as the plane climbs and lands. Flying with heavy congestion makes it worse, and pain that is severe or lingers afterward is worth checking with a doctor.
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Why your ears hurt in the air
Your middle ear is an air-filled space connected to the back of your nose by a narrow channel called the Eustachian tube. On the ground, the pressure inside and outside your eardrum is balanced. When a plane climbs or descends, the cabin pressure changes quickly, and until your ear can let air move through the Eustachian tube to match it, the eardrum is pushed one way. That stretch is the ache, fullness or muffled hearing you notice.
Take-off vs landing
Most people feel it more on descent. During the climb, air escapes the middle ear fairly easily; during landing, the tube has to open against rising pressure, which is harder. That is why the golden rule is to start equalising early on the way down — before the pressure gap grows — rather than waiting for pain to arrive.
How to equalise: techniques that work
| Method | How to do it |
|---|---|
| Swallow | Sip water or swallow frequently — it opens the Eustachian tube |
| Chew gum | The constant swallowing keeps the tube working |
| Yawn | A real or forced yawn is one of the most effective openers |
| Gentle Valsalva | Pinch your nose, close your mouth, and blow softly until you feel a small pop — never force it |
| Stay awake for descent | You cannot swallow to equalise if you sleep through landing |
Do these gently and often. Never blow hard, as forceful pressure can harm the ear.
Flying with a cold or congestion
Congestion swells the lining of the Eustachian tube and makes equalising harder, so a blocked nose can turn mild discomfort into real pain. If you are flying with a cold, a decongestant taken before the flight helps some people, and staying well hydrated keeps mucus thinner. If you have a severe cold, an ear infection, or have had recent ear surgery, check with a doctor before flying.
Extra tools some travellers use
- Filtered ear plugs designed for flying slow the rate of pressure change and suit people who suffer regularly.
- A drink at the right moment — timing sips to take-off and descent turns hydration into equalising.
- Staying upright and alert during descent so you keep swallowing.
Helping babies and children
Little ones cannot equalise on purpose, so give them something to swallow. For babies, feed or offer a dummy during take-off and descent; for older children, a drink, snack or chewy sweet works. It often helps to keep them awake for the descent so they swallow naturally. Reassure anxious children that the funny feeling is normal and passes quickly.
When to see a doctor
Most ear pain fades soon after landing. See a doctor if pain is severe, if hearing loss, dizziness, ringing or fluid discharge lasts more than a day or two, or if only one ear is badly affected. People with chronic ear conditions should get personalised advice before flying often.
Frequently asked questions
Why do my ears hurt when flying?
Cabin pressure changes faster than your middle ear can adjust, stretching the eardrum until the pressure equalises through the Eustachian tube.
Is it worse at take-off or landing?
Usually landing, because the tube must open against rising pressure. Start equalising early on descent.
How do I equalise pressure?
Swallow, yawn, chew gum, or gently blow against a pinched nose — repeatedly and before pain builds.
Can I fly with a cold?
Usually yes, but congestion makes it more uncomfortable. A decongestant may help; check with a doctor if it is severe or you have an ear infection.
How do I help a baby's ears?
Encourage swallowing by feeding or offering a dummy or drink during take-off and descent, and keep them awake for landing.
The bottom line
Aeroplane ear is uncomfortable but usually preventable: equalise early and often by swallowing, yawning and chewing, be extra careful when congested, and help children by keeping them swallowing. Save a doctor's visit for pain that is severe or persistent. Ready to travel? Compare flights on ScanFlyGo, browse popular routes, and track your flight on the day.
Some links on ScanFlyGo are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This article is general wellbeing information, not medical advice; consult a qualified professional about ear problems or before taking medication.