How noisy is inside a plane?

Take-off and landing are the loudest moments, when noise levels inside the cabin can reach 105 decibels (dB). At cruising altitudes, noise drops to around 85 dB, says Pamela Mason of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Long exposure to 85 dB can cause temporary hearing problems.



Excellent question! The noise level inside an airplane is significant, but it varies dramatically depending on where you sit, the type of plane, and the phase of flight.

Here’s a breakdown:

General Noise Levels (in Decibels - dB)

  • Cruise Altitude: Typically between 80-85 dB. This is comparable to:
    • A busy city street
    • A garbage disposal
    • A loud vacuum cleaner
  • Takeoff & Landing: Can peak at 90-100 dB near the engines. This is similar to:
    • A motorcycle
    • A power lawn mower
    • A subway train entering a station

Important Context: Sustained exposure above 85 dB can cause hearing damage over time, which is why noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs are recommended for frequent flyers and crew.

What Creates the Noise?

  1. Engine Noise: The dominant source, especially during takeoff. Modern high-bypass turbofan engines are much quieter than older jet engines.
  2. Aerodynamic Noise (Air Rushing Over the Plane): This becomes the main source during cruise. It’s the sound of friction and turbulence over the fuselage, wings, and landing gear.
  3. Cabin Systems: Air conditioning, pressurization systems, and galley equipment add a constant background hum.
  4. Cabin Noise: Other passengers, announcements, and entertainment systems.

Where You Sit Makes a HUGE Difference

  • Loudest Areas:
    • At the Rear (Near the Engines):

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