Two of the most common ways to manage sinus pain while flying are chewing gum or sipping water during take-off and landing. You can also try taking medications such as decongestants or using the Valsalva maneuver.

Ear and sinus pressure on a plane, known as ear barotrauma, occurs due to the rapid change in cabin pressure during ascent and descent. The most effective method to relieve this in 2026 remains the Valsalva maneuver: gently pinch your nostrils shut, close your mouth, and try to blow air out through your nose, which forces the Eustachian tubes to open. Alternatively, the Toynbee maneuver (pinching your nose while swallowing) can be more effective for some. For children or those with sensitive ears, chewing gum, sucking on hard candy, or drinking water during the final 30 minutes of the flight forces frequent swallowing, which naturally equalizes pressure. If you are flying with a cold or sinus congestion, using a nasal decongestant spray 30 minutes before descent is highly recommended. Many 2026 travelers also swear by EarPlanes, specialized filtered earplugs that slow the rate of pressure change against the eardrum, providing a mechanical buffer during the most intense phases of the flight.