Yes, in most cases, you will need wired headphones for airplane movies.
Why Wired Headphones Are Usually Necessary
The vast majority of in-flight entertainment systems rely on a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. These are the traditional circular ports you'd plug wired earbuds or headphones into.
- Universal Compatibility: Nearly all airplanes with seatback screens are equipped with these jacks.
- No Battery Drain: Wired headphones don't require their own power source, unlike Bluetooth headphones, ensuring they last for the entire flight.
- Reliability: They offer a stable connection without the potential interference or pairing issues that can sometimes occur with Bluetooth in a crowded cabin.
What About Bluetooth?
While some newer aircraft and airlines are beginning to introduce Bluetooth connectivity to their in-flight entertainment systems, this is not yet a widespread standard. Relying solely on Bluetooth headphones means you might be unable to connect if your specific aircraft doesn't support it.
Recommendation
It is highly recommended to bring a pair of wired headphones with a 3.5mm jack. This ensures you can enjoy the in-flight entertainment regardless of the aircraft's technology. You can bring Bluetooth headphones for your personal devices, but wired ones are the safest bet for the plane's system.
Some airlines may provide or sell basic wired earbuds, but the quality is often subpar, and they may not always be available.
