14.2 oz (404 g) on-head weight
Our lightest and most comfortable around-ear aviation headset with 20% less clamping force than the A20 Headset.
Ideal noise environment
Designed for nearly every cockpit environment.
Three user-selectable modes of noise cancellation
Allows users to select the mode that best suits their aircraft environment and personal preference.
Toolless, side swappable down cable and mic
Boom mic and cable can be mounted on either side of the headset without using any tools.
4.5 oz (127.6 g) on-head weight
Ideal for long flights as our smallest, lightest, and most comfortable in-ear aviation headset yet.
Three user-selectable modes of noise cancellation
Allows users to select the mode that best suits their aircraft environment and personal preference.
Toolless, side swappable down cable and mic
Boom mic and cable can be mounted on either side of the headset without using any tools.
Ideal noise environment
Designed for moderately noisy environments such as pressurized jets.
Combine 30 years of aviation headset research and development with a strong commitment to TSO certification, and it’s clear why Bose aviation headsets perform at such a high standard. The A30 and the ProFlight Series 2 have not only been FAA and E/TSO-C139a certified, they’ve also passed over 145 tests by the Bose engineering and quality assurance team.
TSOs, or Technical Standard Orders, are granted by the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA defines TSO as “a minimum performance standard for specified materials, parts, and appliances used on civil aircraft.” In this case, “minimum performance standard” sets a high bar, as the FAA’s mission is to “provide the safest aerospace system in the world.”
Before offering a Bose aviation headset to the market, we ensure it can withstand the extremes of aviation. TSO authorization grants pilots or aircraft manufacturers assurance that the design, testing, and manufacturing processes have been thoroughly inspected for a high standard of safety, reliability, and durability.
Extreme heat: The Bose ProFlight Series 2 and the Bose A30 both withstand temperatures at or above 55C/131F for multiple hours, and then were immediately subjected to drop tests from 6 feet (1.83 meters) onto a concrete floor in addition to cable flex tests. They must continue to perform properly at those temperatures for two hours.
Subzero temperatures: The Bose ProFlight Series 2 and the Bose A30 were both stored at or below –25 C/–13 F and immediately subjected to drop tests from 6 feet (1.83 meters) onto a concrete floor along with cable flex tests. They must continue to perform properly at those temperatures after three hours in the cold.
Electricity: The Bose ProFlight Series 2 and the Bose A30 are both tested for electrostatic discharge immunity. Tested across dozens of contact points, each headset is subjected to between 4,000 and 12,000 volts of static electricity.
Explosive atmosphere testing: While in operational mode, the Bose A30 is tested within an explosive atmosphere and must prove that it is not a source of ignition.
Decompression testing: Bose aviation headsets must operate correctly after a decompression to service ceiling altitudes, which they are subjected to for at least 10 minutes.
Vibration table testing: Bose headsets are subjected to vibratory forces across all frequency ranges to ensure they survive without loss of functionality.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) testing: Products are tested for immunity to interference from magnetism, cellphone signals, and radio frequency signal interference from various sources. Then we run conformity tests to ensure the product meets global regulatory requirements for radiated emissions and interference.
UV: Accelerated solar radiation tests are performed to ensure components are durable and will not degrade in integrity or appearance, providing a consistent experience over the lifetime of the products.
Which one is right for you?
A20 Aviation Headset
ProFlight Series 2 Aviation Headset
comparisonTableText.adaFeaturesKey1
12-ounce (340.2-gram) on-head weight
Among the lightest and most comfortable around-ear aviation headsets
Acclaimed noise reduction
30% greater active noise reduction than conventional aviation headsets
Comfortable, stable fit
30% less clamping force than conventional aviation headsets
FAA TSO and E/TSO-C139 certification
Compatible with TSO certified systems
Bluetooth connectivity and audio prioritization
Connect wirelessly to mobile devices, audio systems, and electronic flight bags
comparisonTableText.adaFeaturesKey2
4.5-ounce (127.6-gram) on-head weight
A uniquely lightweight, compact and comfortable in-ear design
Three user-selectable modes of noise cancellation
Allows user to select the mode that best suits the aircraft noise environment and personal preference
Uniquely compact, comfortable design
Our smallest, lightest, most comfortable aviation headset yet – ideal for the longest flights
FAA TSO and E/TSO-C139a certification
Compatible with TSO certified systems
Bluetooth connectivity and audio prioritization
Connect wirelessly to mobile devices, audio systems, and electronic flight bags
Can I interchange the control modules or other parts and accessories from my A20 or ProFlight with those from the A30?
No. The control module can be used only with the model for which it was built. Although some of the cushions and parts may be forced onto the Bose A30 Aviation Headset, they were not designed for this product.
What makes Bose headsets so comfortable?
The materials of the headset cushions were chosen for their soft feel and stable fit. The headband cushion provides the exact amount of force needed to distribute weight and pressure across the head to avoid hot spots or bottoming out.
Is it legal to use a Bluetooth® device in the cockpit?
Yes, but pilots are personally responsible for permitting and utilizing personal electronic devices or any devices that emit radio signals. Depending on the country, circumstance, and use case, different methods of qualification and approval may be required.
What is TSO and do headsets have to be TSO certified?
Only specific US air carriers require pilots to use TSO certified headsets. A technical standard order (TSO) is a minimum performance standard for specified materials, parts, and appliances used on civil aircraft. TSO authorization means a company is authorized to manufacture a material, part, or appliances to TSO standards. When a company receives a TSO authorization, the products meet the minimums for both design and production.
Receiving a TSO authorization is not an approval to install and use the authorized article in the aircraft.
What is an aviation headset, and how does it differ from regular headphones?
An aviation headset is a specialized type of headphone designed for pilots and aviation professionals. Unlike regular headphones, aviation headsets are built to provide clear communication in noisy environments, protect hearing from loud engine noise, and connect to aircraft communication systems.
How long is the warranty on a Bose aviation headset?
We offer a 5-year warranty on all of our aviation headsets, ensuring you have peace of mind when making your purchase.
What is the customer service experience like with Bose aviation headsets?
We have a dedicated customer service team available to assist customers with any questions or concerns regarding their aviation headset. Our team is trained to provide exceptional customer service and technical support, ensuring that you are satisfied with your purchase.
Are Bose aviation headsets comfortable to wear for long periods of time?
Yes. Bose aviation headsets are designed with comfort in mind, featuring soft ear cushions and a lightweight design. Pilots can wear the headset for hours without experiencing discomfort.
How does noise cancellation technology work in Bose aviation headsets?
Bose aviation headsets feature advanced noise cancellation technology that uses microphones to detect ambient noise and cancel it out before it reaches the ear. This technology ensures clear communication and reduces the impact of engine noise on hearing.
Can I purchase replacement parts for my Bose aviation headset?
Yes. We offer replacement parts for our aviation headsets, including ear cushions, microphone windscreens, and cable assemblies. These replacement parts ensure that your headset continues to function at its best and can extend the lifespan of your headset.