Why do my ears pop on planes?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
The pop is your eustachian tube finally opening to equalise pressure between your middle ear and the cabin - and it struggles most during descent, when outside pressure rises fastest. Swallowing, yawning, chewing, and gentle nose-pinched exhales are the openers. Stay awake for landing and avoid flying congested. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, and can help you prep.
What to do
- Chew, suck, swallow, yawn through takeoff and descent - each one opens the tube.
- Gentle pressure manoeuvre: nose pinched, mouth shut, exhale softly.
- Stay awake for descent and keep babies swallowing with feeds or a pacifier.
- Severe pain after landing, muffled hearing for days, or discharge? See a doctor.
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