Is their a trick to removing them?

No, they come right out, no problem.

I use the bigger Hearos PLUS NC headphones on top, kills most noise.

I use the Howard Leight MAX plugs (orange). They're quite comfortable and don't get dirty too easily. They seem to block out noise better than any other plugs I've used.

You can find them at some drugstores, and you can get bulk boxes with 200 pairs for around $20 on eBay.

There's also the MAX Lites (green) which are smaller and softer, but have less noise reduction.

33 is indeed the highest NRR in the US - Howard Leight MAX. You can wrap the highest rated (31NRR) muffs around them to get to 36NRR. I don't know if Oz uses the same NRR rating system, as I believe it's based on an ANSI standard, but a little searching should turn up the answer. Be sure not to confuse db noise reduction with NRR (i.e. companies advertising 35db noise reduction plugs)

For plugs, be sure to read the directions - roll them up to compress them, reach over your head with your opposite hand to straighten the ear canal, insert and allow to expand before releasing your ear. You'd be amazed at the difference between correct and incorrect insertion.

Thanks! A very informative article telling me what I wanted. Full marks to flyertalkers as both the Howard Leight and Hearos were highly recommended ^

I think I might go with the Hearos since they are (reputedly) more comfortable.

Interesting article on earplugs. The final two are definitely the style I find the most effective. Like the article said, its about the technique of inserting into the canal--not just cramming. :p

Told to remove ear plugs
 

Just had a United Express sky waitress tell me to remove my foam ear plugs!

She: 'Sir, if there was an emergency you wouldn't be able to hear my instructions. You need to keep them out or I will inform the captain.'

Me: 'What say you to those PAX who are deaf or do not speak english?'

She: 'I guess there would be a problem...'

100K + miles flown each year for the past 8 years and have never heard of such.

USAirways published that question in their in-flight magazine a few months back - earplugs and NC headphones that are turned off are permitted during takeoff and landing.

Were you in an exit row? I was told this same thing recently sitting in an exit row and decided not to pull out the magazine and push it. Don't want to get on an FA's bad side. At least not at the beginning of a flight.

Even better, use a pair of earplugs WITH noise cancelling headphones. I do it on longer flights.

That was going to be my suggestion
 

but I've learned that this is a well-read bunch, so I scanned the responses first.

Which UX contractor was it? Skywest actually passes earplugs out to those who ask, at least on the EMBs. Deadheading crew members always seem to use them, which is where I got the idea to buy my own Hearos. NC headphones work fine on mainline but there is nothing to plug into on the commuters.

JR

I would like to buy custom made earplugs (molded from the shape of my ear canals), but have been unable to find a company that does this at a reasonable price.

I found that funny too
 

On an EMB flight into Hailey, Idaho I noticed the sole flight attendant had her jump seat near the door/engine and used earplugs while taking off and landing.

How would SHE hear what she needed to hear? Guess a potential workers comp claim over hearing loss trumped safety. We also had to go around because someone was on the runway, but we got to see more of Idaho :)