How To Connect Bluetooth Headphones To Your In-Flight Entertainment Screen

When flying, most in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems provide a treasure trove of content to make your journey more enjoyable, offering everything from blockbuster movies and engaging TV shows to curated music playlists and interactive games. However, the experience can often be dampened by the limitations of standard airline-issued headphones, which are typically uncomfortable, deliver subpar sound quality, and may not fit properly. Thankfully, you don't have to settle for these lackluster headphones or purchase a separate set for the flight. Instead, you can connect your Bluetooth headphones directly to the in-flight entertainment system for a more comfortable and enhanced audio experience.

Many newer aircraft feature Bluetooth-enabled systems, so you can easily pair your headphones. Even if your flight doesn't have this option, you can use a Bluetooth audio transmitter — a handy gadget for flights that bridges the gap between older systems and your wireless headphones. In this guide, we'll walk you through the simple steps to connect your Bluetooth headphones, regardless of the system onboard. With these steps, you'll be able to enjoy high-quality audio from Bluetooth headphones and avoid the discomfort of wired headphones.

Many modern airplanes now have in-flight entertainment systems that support Bluetooth connectivity. Most leading airlines, including Delta, United, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa, have integrated Bluetooth-enabled systems into their newer aircraft models. While this feature isn't available on all flights yet, many major carriers are actively upgrading their in-flight entertainment systems to support Bluetooth connectivity as part of an enhanced passenger experience. So, if your flight offers this capability, connecting your Bluetooth headphones is as simple and intuitive as pairing them with a smartphone or computer.

Though the exact procedure may vary slightly depending on the airline, the following general steps will guide you through the process: 

1. On your airplane's in-flight entertainment screen, tap the Bluetooth icon. 
2. Look for an option labeled "Bluetooth Audio" or "Bluetooth" and turn it on. 
3. Now, put your earbuds or headphones in pairing mode. If you're using AirPods, this can be done by pressing and holding the button on the back of the charging case until the LED light flashes.
4. Wait for your Bluetooth headphones to appear on the in-flight entertainment screen as an available device, and tap on them to establish the connection. 

Once you're done with the pairing process, you'll be able to enjoy movies, music, and TV shows more comfortably without the hassle of wired headphones.

If you're on an aircraft that doesn't offer Bluetooth functionality for its in-flight entertainment system, a Bluetooth audio transmitter can be the perfect solution. This compact, portable device plugs into the headphone jack of the entertainment system and transmits audio wirelessly to your Bluetooth headphones, eliminating the need for wired headphones. To get started, you'll need to purchase a 3.5 mm Bluetooth audio transmitter. Make sure to choose one compatible with both single-prong and two-prong 3.5 mm audio jacks to ensure versatility across different aircraft models. Some transmitters also support dual Bluetooth connections, allowing you to pair two sets of headphones simultaneously — perfect for sharing entertainment with a travel companion.

Once you have the Bluetooth audio transmitter, you can use these steps to connect your Bluetooth headphones to the in-flight entertainment screen: 

1. Insert the Bluetooth transmitter into the in-flight entertainment system's headphone jack. 
2. Activate the pairing mode on the Bluetooth transmitter, which typically involves holding a button or flipping a switch. 
3. Put your Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode and hold them close to the transmitter. 

Once the devices are paired, you should be able to hear the audio from the in-flight entertainment directly through your headphones. Beyond flights, Bluetooth audio transmitters can help you connect your Bluetooth headphones to various other systems, such as the PS5, projectors, car audio systems, and more. This makes them a handy tool for enhancing your audio experience across different devices and settings.