Originally Posted by ecrispy

Yes that is something to look for. I have sensitive ears, don't know the medical term for it, but when the plane lands, my ears hurt a lot and can last for 1-2hrs till they pop, due to the pressure changes. So now I travel with earplugs, airlines used to give them out but not all do. If I'm not watching a movie or trying to sleep, I will put them in.

I did happen to try out noise cancelling headphones when someone 2 seats over had one and let me try it, they were the expensive Bose ones, and it did make a difference. My upcoming flight on JAL happens to be on premium economy and they say they give NC headphones, so hopefully they are good quality.