Ears plugged after flying: why it happens and how to get relief

Why do ears feel plugged after a flight?

The middle ear sits behind the eardrum and is connected to the back of the nose by a narrow passage called the Eustachian tube. Its job is to keep the pressure inside the ear equal to the pressure outside. As the aircraft climbs and descends, the outside pressure changes quickly — and if the Eustachian tube can't keep up, the eardrum gets pushed in or out slightly. That's what causes the fullness, muffled hearing, popping and, sometimes, discomfort.

This is more likely if you fly with a cold, allergies, sinus congestion or a build-up of ear wax — anything that stops the Eustachian tube opening properly.

Safe ways to relieve blocked ears

Most cases settle on their own within a few hours. These simple techniques usually speed things along:

• Swallow, yawn or chew. Chewing gum, sipping water or yawning encourages the Eustachian tube to open.
• Try the Valsalva manoeuvre. Pinch your nose closed, keep your mouth shut and gently blow — just enough to feel pressure in your ears, not hard. Stop if it hurts.
• Use a warm compress. A warm flannel held over the ear can be soothing and may help the tube relax open.
• Consider a decongestant. A short course of a pharmacist-recommended decongestant nasal spray can help if congestion is the underlying cause. Always check suitability with your pharmacist first.
• Stay upright and hydrated for a few hours after landing.

What not to do

• Don't push cotton buds or anything else into the ear canal.
• Don't blow hard on the Valsalva — gentle pressure only.
• Don't ignore severe pain, sudden hearing loss, dizziness, bleeding or discharge — these need medical review.

Does ear wax make it worse?

Yes — a build-up of wax narrows the ear canal, so pressure changes have less space to equalise around, and the blocked feeling can last longer. If you fly often and know you're prone to wax build-up, a quick microsuction appointment beforehand can make flights much more comfortable.

You can read more about our ear wax removal service or book an appointment online.

When to see an audiologist

Get in touch if the blocked feeling lasts more than a couple of days, or if at any point you have sudden hearing loss, significant pain, dizziness, bleeding or discharge from the ear. Sudden hearing loss in particular is treated as urgent — the sooner it's assessed, the better the outcome.

Frequently asked questions

How long do plugged ears last after flying?

For most people, the blocked feeling settles within a few hours as the Eustachian tubes equalise. If it's still there after 24–48 hours, or you have pain, hearing loss or discharge, it's worth being seen.

Is it safe to fly with a cold?

Flying with a heavy cold, sinus infection or ear infection increases the risk of ear pain and barotrauma because the Eustachian tubes are already congested. If you must fly, using a decongestant (check with your pharmacist) and equalising often can help.

Can ear wax make it worse?

Yes. A build-up of wax means the pressure change has less room to equalise around, which can make blocked ears feel worse and slower to clear. Microsuction ear wax removal beforehand can help if you fly often.

When should I see an audiologist or GP?

Book an appointment if the blocked feeling lasts more than a couple of days, you have sudden hearing loss, severe pain, dizziness, or any bleeding or discharge from the ear.