Posted by Richard G. on Nov 26th 2025
When it comes to professional aviation headsets, Telex has long been one of the most trusted names in commercial aviation headsets, especially among airline pilots, flight departments, and corporate operators who prioritize durability, comfort, and crystal-clear cockpit communication.
Known for their lightweight designs and TSO authorization, Telex headsets remain a top choice in quieter turbine aircraft environments.
If you’re shopping for a Telex headset, each model brings something a little different to the table. Let’s break down the Telex aviation headsets, compare their standout features, and help you determine which one best fits your aircraft and needs.
Why Pilots Choose Telex
While general aviation pilots often lean toward full-dome ANR headsets, airline and turbine-aircraft pilots typically prefer Telex headsets for several reasons:
- Lightweight frames designed for long flights
- On-ear earcups that stay cool and comfortable in quieter cockpits
- Clear, reliable communication optimized for pro environments
- TSO on all models
- Durability, which matters for high-cycle, commercial use
But one important detail often comes up when pilots shop for Telex headsets:
Telex aviation headsets require a “hot mic” (mic bias) to provide ANR (Automatic Noise Reduction). This means that your intercom between the left and right seats must always be ‘open’ for cockpit crew communication. If you have to ‘key’ your mic to talk to your seat-mate, the Noise Cancellation will only work during those brief moments.
If that is how your aircraft is configured (requiring you to ‘key’ your intercom), then it may be best to look for another brand of headset. While this feature may not make sense to some, it is what allows Telex headsets to provide ANR without batteries!
This is a huge reason why airline crews continue to favor Telex models, they’re optimized for exactly this environment.
Telex Aviation Headsets Overview
Telex offers a focused lineup of commercial headsets designed for quiet turbine cockpits, where comfort and low weight matter more than extreme noise attenuation. Their models differ in weight, noise reduction, and microphone performance.
Telex Airman 8+ ANR Headset
The Airman 8+ is Telex’s flagship on-ear ANR headset and the most advanced in the lineup. It is extremely popular among airline pilots who want noise-reduction performance without the bulk and clamp pressure of over-ear GA headsets.
Key Features
- Active Noise Reduction (ANR)
- On-ear design for long-haul comfort
- Featherlight weight, a major benefit for crew flying multiple legs
- TSO-C139a certified
- Dual-sided microphone placement
- Replaceable ear cushions, windscreens, and cables
Best For
Commercial pilots, jet operators, and anyone wanting Telex comfort with ANR support.
How It Compares
Compared to the Airman 7, the 8+ adds ANR, more comfort padding, and improved microphone clarity. It is the top-tier choice for noise reduction within the Telex line.
Telex Airman 8 ANR Headset
The Airman 8 is one of the most popular commercial aviation headsets in the world, offering an ideal balance of lightweight comfort and active noise reduction tailored for the quieter environments of turbine and airline cockpits. It provides noticeable ANR performance without the bulk of larger over-ear designs.
Key Features
- Lightweight on-ear design
- Active Noise Reduction (ANR)
- TSO-C139 approved
- Electret boom mic (requires mic bias / hot mic)
- Replaceable cushions
- Durable, compact build
Best For
Pilots wanting a light, comfortable ANR headset for airline and jet operations.
How It Compares
Airman 8: More affordable, excellent everyday ANR.
Airman 8+: Improved ANR and comfort upgrades for noisier jets or pilots wanting maximum performance.
Telex Airman 7+ Headset
The Airman 7+ is an excellent Passive Telex professional headset.
Key Features
- Exceptionally lightweight on-ear format
- Passive noise reduction
- Low clamping force to reduce fatigue
- Flexible left/right headset configuration
- TSO certified
Best For
Airline pilots who want a proven, durable, ultra-light headset without ANR.
How It Compares
The Airman 7+ is a great light-weight headset and is often preferred by pilots who want the least intrusive headset possible. It is similar in construction and comfort to the Airman 8+ but does not have ANR.
Telex Airman 750 Headset
A classic in the Telex lineup, the Airman 750 has been used by commercial pilots for decades. Its simple, lightweight design and long-standing reliability make it one of the most widely used airline headsets in the world.
Key Features
- Very lightweight on-ear design
- Flexible boom mic
- Durable metal headband
- Passive noise reduction
- Reliable and simple, no batteries, no extra electronics
Best For
Pilots who need a low-cost, professional-grade headset that is built to last. It remains popular as a backup headset for airline pilots.
How It Compares
The Airman 750 is the most affordable Telex headset and the most traditional in design. While the Airman 7+ and Airman 8/8+ offer updated comfort and ANR improvements, the 750 remains valued for its durability, simplicity, and long service history across global airline fleets.
Telex Airman 850 ANR Headset
The Airman 850 brings active noise reduction to the classic Telex airline form factor. It retains the lightweight feel of the famous Airman 750, while adding ANR technology designed specifically for the quiet environment of turbine and airline cockpits.
Key Features
- Lightweight on-ear design
- Active Noise Reduction (ANR)
- Flexible electret boom mic (requires mic bias / hot mic)
- Similar fit as the Airman 750 but with upgraded ear seals for better noise cancellation
- No batteries required, ANR powered through the mic bias circuit
Best For
Airline and corporate jet pilots who want ANR performance without switching to a bulky over-ear headset.
How It Compares
The Airman 850 is similar to the Airman 750 but with ANR and upgraded ear cups/ear seals. The Airman 850 is lighter and more compact than many ANR headsets, though pilots wanting maximum ANR performance may prefer the Airman 8/8+.
Which Telex Headset Should You Choose?
Choose the Airman 8+ if:
- You want ANR in a commercial cockpit
- Comfort is a top priority
- You fly long legs or multiple daily segments
Choose the Airman 8 if:
- You want a modern Telex headset at a great price
- You are fine with a bit less padding
Choose the Telex Airman 850 ANR Headset if:
- You want ANR without switching to a larger over-ear headset
- You fly quiet cockpits and prefer the original Airman 750/850 fit
- You want a reliable, battery-free ANR headset powered via mic bias
Choose the Airman 7+ if:
- You want the trusted, proven headset used by airlines worldwide
- A Passive headset will work in your environment
Choose the Airman 750 if:
- You want maximum value with minimal noise cancellation (no ANR)
- You need a durable backup headset
Telex aviation headsets stand apart for their lightweight construction, professional clarity, and long-duration comfort, qualities that matter tremendously to working pilots. Whether you’re flying heavy jets, regional aircraft, or a business turbine, Telex offers a headset tailored to your cockpit environment and personal preference.