Hearing Aids and Airport Security

Time to Read: 5 minutes

If you wear hearing aids and love to travel, then you might have wondered about your hearing aids in high security situations like airports. 

At the airport

If your hearing aids have a telecoil, you have the advantage. All major airports offer the service which sends notices directly to your hearing aid using an electromagnetic signal.

To be connected to the airport’s induction loop, you just need to switch your hearing aids to the “telecoil” or "T" setting. If you are not sure if your hearing aids have telecoils, give us a call and we’ll be able to help you.

Airport security and hearing aids

The good news is, you don’t need to take your hearing aids out to go through airport security but it is definitely worthwhile to let security know that you are wearing hearing aids so they are aware of them before you go through a metal detector.

If you elect not to wear your hearing aids to go through screening, do let security know that they are in your bag. You might be asked to separate the hearing aids from your carry on luggage place it in the tray.

Security checkpoints and immigration halls are noisy places so reduce the volume on your hearing aid to ensure greater comfort.

If you are concerned about travelling to the United States, the TSA has a little card you can print out which tells authorities that you have a medical device (hearing aids) which may be picked up in screening.

But before you go

Have your hearing aids serviced or checked before you go. Make sure you have filters and batteries if you plan to be away from home for a while.

If going overseas remember roaming charges may apply but do check this with your mobile service provider. If you can't use the internet overseas, there is still the option of Bluetooth without using your data, just be sure to switch off mobile data on your phone. 

Also, make sure you have all the appropriate power converts to charge your hearing aids if they are the rechargeable type.

Some hearing aids have Flight Mode to turn off wireless features. It is recommended that you activate flight mode, just as you would with a mobile phone during your flight.

Lastly, take cleaning supplies and a dehumidifier. 

More tips

Here are some tips to help you have a smooth flight.

• Save the nap for 35,000 feet. Be alert and awake for take off and landing. Not only will you hear important notifications, but also your ears will cope better with changes in altitude.
• Do let your flight attendant know of your hearing loss. They’ll be happy to help or repeat instructions to you if you need it.
• Don’t keep your hearing aids in the overhead locker, in case you need them. Also don’t store them in the front pocket either, it is too easy to forget them when you disembark.
• To make the flight more comfortable, take advantage of noise-reduction features if your hearing aids have them. If you don’t, books seats near the front of the plane. The sound of the engines is louder near the back of the plane. 
• Chewing  gum is an old trick to keep the jaw moving which helps relieve pressure on the ears.