A few weeks ago, BGR reported that some AirPods Pro 3 owners were hearing high-pitched noises while flying. Since then, more customers have shared similar experiences on social media, describing persistent whistling and whooshing sounds both in the air and on the ground.
The situation has grown more frustrating because Apple recently rolled out a new firmware update, yet many users claim the issue persists. In a Reddit thread, one user wrote, “Even with firmware 8B25, the left AirPod makes a constant whistle or screech when flying. ANC is almost unusable for me — adaptive mode helps a bit, but it’s disappointing.” Another commenter described the same issue on the right ear, noting it appeared at about 10,000 feet and disappeared after landing.
While the problem doesn’t appear to affect all units, Apple has reportedly been offering replacements or reimbursements for those experiencing the defect.
Apple Is Testing New AirPods Firmware
It’s still unclear whether this flaw can be resolved through a software update or if it’s related to the design. So far, BGR’s own tests haven’t reproduced the issue in normal conditions, though the team was able to trigger similar noises by pressing the earbud foam manually. In addition, some users have complained about initial discomfort from the new foam tips, a short-lived issue that
social media has already dubbed “bloodgate.”
The AirPods Pro 3 launched alongside the iPhone 17 during Apple’s September event. They feature the same H2 audio chip as the previous generation but include a redesigned body and new foam tips for improved active noise cancellation. Overall, BGR found the AirPods Pro 3 deliver better audio quality and longer battery life than before.
Apple is currently testing another firmware update, and time will tell whether it fixes the whistling noise issue once and for all.
