Some studies suggest that the cabin pressure changes in the airplane, which are more pronounced during takeoff and landing, affects the head and sinuses in a way that triggers a headache. Another possible explanation for AHs is a fear of flying, which can cause stress and anxiety and subsequently trigger a headache.

Plane headaches, often called "airplane headaches" or "barotrauma headaches," are primarily caused by rapid changes in cabin pressure during ascent and descent. As the plane changes altitude, the air pressure in your sinuses and middle ear must equalize with the cabin. If your Eustachian tubes or sinus passages are blocked (due to a cold, allergies, or anatomy), the pressure imbalance creates a sharp, "stabbing" pain, typically behind one eye. Other major contributors in 2026 include dehydration, as cabin air humidity is often below 20%—much drier than a desert—which causes the brain's blood vessels to contract. Mild hypoxia (lower oxygen levels) can also trigger tension headaches in sensitive individuals. To prevent them, travelers are advised to stay hydrated, use nasal decongestants if congested, and use the "Valsalva maneuver" (gently blowing with a pinched nose) to help pop their ears and equalize pressure throughout the flight.