I don't like the over-ear noise canceling headphones as they are quite bulky to travel with and you cant lie on the side (for sleeping or whatever reason).

Until recently, I've used my Shure 535's on airplanes. They are not noise cancelling. I use the conical ear buds and those do a fantastic job blocking out external noise. The sound quality is also fantastic. You need to use the volume control adapter on airplanes, however, otherwise you'll have quite a shock when someone goes on the PA.

I generally don't mind using the EK noise cancelling headphones in F/J. They are adequate (and I've never had to hand them back before landing).

However, last month I purchased the in-ear Bose Quiet Comfort 20s on impulse and have been quite happy with them. I haven't compared to the over ear models but I've been quite pleased with the noise-cancelling quality. They are also quite comfortable to wear on long haul.