Why We Don’t Support the Bose QuietComfort Ultra for Cockpit Use
At UFlyMike, pilot safety is at the core of every product we design and support. As aviation professionals ourselves, we understand how critical it is for cockpit audio systems to be dependable, even in challenging or unexpected conditions.
That’s why we want to take a moment to explain why the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are not compatible with our Harmony system—and why we do not recommend them for cockpit use.
No Passive Mode Means Loss of Audio
Unlike previous generations of Bose headphones, the QC Ultra requires continuous internal power to function. It lacks a passive mode, meaning if the battery dies, the headphones completely shut down, including audio. For pilots, this isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a serious safety risk.
No Simple Backup Power Option
Earlier models like the QC15 and QC25 were designed with replaceable AAA batteries, making mid-flight battery swaps simple and reliable. Unfortunately, the Ultra headphones rely solely on rechargeable internal batteries. While it’s technically possible to use a portable power bank, this solution introduces its own risks and complications, and may not be viable in many aircraft environments.
Communication Must Be Fail-Safe
In the cockpit, your headset may be the only line of communication with ATC and your crew. A headset that can’t operate in a power-depleted state creates a single point of failure, a risk we simply can’t support or recommend.
Our Recommendation
Due to these safety and reliability concerns, we do not currently offer a product compatible with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and have no plans to develop one.
We want to ensure every pilot using the Harmony system has a dependable experience, and we’re always happy to help you find an alternative that fits your needs. If you have any questions or would like help selecting a supported headset, just reach out. We’re here to help.