EarPlanes: 20dB Protection from Flight Ear Discomfort

EarPlanes: 20dB Protection from Flight Ear Discomfort

($6.00 ATA Members / $6.50 Non-Members)

Relieves ear discomfort, clogging and popping with  the exclusive CeramX™ filter that regulates air pressure naturally. EarPlanes are backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal.

•  Approved by flight attendants
•  Recommended by doctors
•  20 dB noise reduction rating (NRR)
•  Drug free
•  Made of hypoallergenic and latex free soft silicone

Q: What are EarPlanes?

A: EarPlanes are a patented pressure-regulating earplug inserted in the ear to help reduce discomfort often associated with air travel. They were developed by Cirrus Healthcare Products LLC in conjunction with the House Ear Institute in Los Angeles, and have been tested by US Navy aviators at the Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego.

Q: How Do EarPlanes Work?

A: EarPlanes consist of two elements: a hypoallergenic silicone ear plug and a ceramic pressure regulator. The silicone earplug has four circumferential rings which provide an airtight seal between the product and ear canal. The ceramic element is a controlled porosity filter, one end of which is exposed to the external cabin pressure, with the opposite end exposed to the sealed chamber formed when the ear plug is inserted in the ear. Thus, as the cabin air pressure changes, a pressure differential is created across the ceramic filter, thereby causing air to flow through the filter. The filter acts as an impedance to the flow of air into and out of the ear canal.

Discomfort is caused by blockage and/or swelling of a passengers Eustachian tube(s). The air pressure changes induced by the aircraft's descent are too rapid for the blocked Eustachian tubes to adjust properly. However, EarPlanes, provide an equal but opposite impedance on the exterior of the middle ear, allowing relief. Discomfort is reduced because the air pressure difference on the exterior and interior of the middle ear is lessened allowing the Eustachian tubes to function more normally.

Q: Who Should use EarPlanes?

A: EarPlanes are intended for people with sensitive ears or people who must fly even though suffering with a cold, allergy or sinus condition.

Note: The manufacturer does not recommend use of EarPlanes in the event of severe sinus congestion (completely blocked Eustachian tubes).