Hearing aids for pax in GA aircraft.

[gerry111]

My Dad's going to be 89 next month and really enjoys the adventures of a GA flight. We fly together in a Bonanza and he loves it so much. Dad's found that flying without his hearing aids and with a headset, he can hear us two in the front just so well.

Any thoughts on hearing aids for elderly GA pilots and their pax?

[fujii]

I recently got hearing aids but take them out when flying but that’s what I prefer. Aids aren’t just a simple amplifier, they have multiple channels which are individually programmed for the best average performance during your normal day. In an aircraft there may be extra sounds you don’t want amplified. Everyone is different.

[gerry111]

Thank you fujii.

Modern hearing aids are sure rather complex technologies. My interest is what should pilots suggest to their pax who usually wear them, when also wearing headsets? In my Dad's case, not wearing his hearing aids suits him best too.

[fujii]

I was flying on the weekend and forgot to take them out beforehand. There was constant unwanted background noise.

[gerry111]

I remember learning to fly at Schofields in 1983, when intercom systems and headsets were unknown on their five PA28 Warriors. (A hand mic to talk to RIC TWR was all that was needed.) Noise cancelling headsets are such a boon to flying today.

[cowl flaps]

For me, I dislike wearing a headset. Always have, as I feel I have partially lost one of my senses.
I prefer to be able to listen intently to the engine for any small changes in note.
If in a primary,- just tell the pax to shut up for a few minutes and let you listen to ATC.