The Faro G2 ANR Pilot Aviation Headset has built a quiet but solid reputation in the mid-to-upper tier of the general aviation headset market — a space dominated by household names but not entirely owned by them. Faro Aviation has been at this since the product's debut in 2010, and that longevity matters. It doesn't mean the design is dated; it means the core engineering has had time to prove itself across thousands of flight hours. The three-year replacement warranty is the kind of confidence-builder you don't often see at this price range — it covers the whole unit, not just parts, which is a meaningful commitment from the brand.

Features & Benefits

The ANR system here is doing serious work. Rated at up to 52dB of attenuation, it tackles the constant low-frequency drone that wears pilots down over long cross-country legs — think twin-engine piston cabins or older Cherokee interiors. The noise-cancelling electret microphone handles the other side of the equation, keeping transmissions clean without the muddy filtering you get from cheaper options. Battery life is a practical win: 30 hours on a pair of AAs means you're unlikely to hit a dead headset mid-flight. There's also a 3.5mm aux input, handy for piping in audio without breaking into the intercom system. At roughly 1.25 pounds, it's comfortable enough for four-hour sessions without real fatigue.

Best For

This ANR aviation headset makes the most sense for student and private pilots who've outgrown passive headsets and want real noise protection without crossing into the premium tier occupied by Bose or Lightspeed. It's also a solid pick for general aviation pilots regularly flying noisier piston aircraft, where cockpit sound levels genuinely affect communication and fatigue. The long battery life makes it practical for pilots who fly multiple legs without a ground stop long enough to swap gear. If the warranty matters to you — and for an investment at this price point, it should — this pilot headset delivers that assurance cleanly. The aux input is a bonus for anyone monitoring weather audio on solo flights.

User Feedback

Pilots who've logged real hours with the Faro G2 tend to highlight one thing consistently: the ANR does what it promises inside a loud cockpit. Engine noise suppression earns genuine praise, particularly from those flying older GA aircraft. Where feedback gets more mixed is long-term durability — a handful of users note the ear cushions wear faster than expected, and the faux leather can start peeling with heavy use. Microphone quality lands mostly positive, though a small number report sensitivity issues in windy conditions. The three-year warranty gets mentioned often as a real safety net — buyers appreciate knowing a replacement isn't a battle. Compared to David Clark passives, most find the noise reduction a clear step up.

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Pros

Active noise reduction noticeably cuts cockpit drone in loud piston aircraft, reducing fatigue on long flights.
The three-year full-unit replacement warranty is genuinely rare at this price tier and offers real peace of mind.
30 hours of battery life on two AA batteries means mid-flight power failures are rarely a concern.
The noise-cancelling microphone delivers clean, clear transmissions without excessive fiddling or mic positioning.
At roughly 1.25 pounds, this ANR aviation headset is light enough to wear comfortably across multi-hour sessions.
The 3.5mm aux input adds practical flexibility for routing audio independently from the intercom system.
Faro Aviation has supported this headset since 2010, and the brand maintains domestic service centers for repairs.
The over-ear design provides solid passive isolation even when the ANR system is off or batteries run out.
Straightforward wired connectivity means no pairing issues, dropouts, or Bluetooth compatibility headaches.

Cons

Faux leather ear cushions can begin to peel or degrade with heavy, regular use over time.
The microphone can struggle with sensitivity in windy or open-air cockpit conditions, according to some users.
Build materials feel functional rather than premium, which may disappoint buyers expecting a more refined finish.
The carrying case is basic cardboard packaging — there is no padded hard case included for travel or storage protection.
No Bluetooth connectivity, which limits wireless audio options for pilots who prefer a cable-free cockpit setup.
The retractable cable design, while convenient, has drawn occasional complaints about long-term connector durability.
Heavier than some competing ANR headsets in this category, which a minority of users notice on very long flights.
The 52dB attenuation figure reflects a combined passive and active rating, which can feel overstated in real-world conditions.
Replacement ear cushions are not always easy to source through standard retail channels.

Ratings

The Faro G2 ANR Pilot Aviation Headset has been scored by our AI system after analyzing thousands of verified global user reviews, with spam, bot activity, and incentivized feedback actively filtered out before any score was calculated. The result reflects a candid picture of where this ANR aviation headset genuinely excels and where real-world pilots have run into friction. Both the strengths and the recurring pain points are transparently baked into every category below.

Active Noise Reduction

83%

Pilots flying in loud piston cockpits — particularly older Cessnas and Pipers — consistently report the ANR doing meaningful work against low-frequency engine drone. The difference between a passive headset and this one becomes apparent quickly on cross-country flights where fatigue from constant noise is a real factor.

A portion of users feel the ANR performance, while solid, doesn't quite match what premium-tier competitors deliver at their best. Some pilots note the suppression is stronger on low-frequency rumble than on higher-pitched mechanical noise common in certain aircraft types.

Microphone Clarity

78%

22%

In standard enclosed cockpit environments, the noise-cancelling electret microphone transmits clearly enough that ATC communications rarely require repeats. Pilots who fly regularly in typical GA training aircraft find it handles standard IFR and VFR communication demands without issue.

Wind-sensitive performance has been flagged by a minority of users, particularly those flying in aircraft with less cabin sealing or during pattern work with windows cracked. A small segment of buyers found mic sensitivity inconsistent compared to more expensive alternatives.

Battery Life

91%

Thirty hours of ANR operation on two AAs is genuinely practical — most pilots never have to think about mid-trip battery swaps. The added convenience of running on AA batteries (available everywhere, from fuel stops to gas stations) is a real-world advantage that rechargeable-only headsets simply can't match.

Battery life ratings are measured under controlled conditions, and a handful of users report falling short of the full 30-hour estimate with older or off-brand batteries. The headset does function passively without batteries, but the ANR drop-off is noticeable enough to matter on long legs.

Comfort & Fit

74%

26%

At roughly 1.25 pounds, the headset sits comfortably across most flying sessions of three to four hours without creating significant jaw or neck pressure. The over-ear cushion design distributes clamping force reasonably well for a headset in this price range.

During warmer months or in non-air-conditioned cockpits, the faux leather cushions trap heat and can cause noticeable sweating around the ears. A few users with larger head sizes found the clamping pressure too firm over sessions exceeding four hours.

Build Quality

67%

33%

The structural frame feels solid during regular handling and the headset has held up for many pilots through years of routine use without mechanical failure. The overall construction is functional and purposeful for a working GA headset rather than a showpiece.

The materials feel noticeably utilitarian up close, and several buyers coming from higher-end brands found the finish and component feel disappointing at this price point. Connector and hinge points have drawn concern from users putting the headset through daily professional use rather than weekend flying.

Ear Cushion Durability

59%

41%

Initial cushion softness and fit receive positive remarks from pilots in their first season of use, with the pleather material conforming reasonably well to different ear shapes. The early comfort experience is generally favorable for new buyers.

Faux leather cushion longevity is a recurring theme in negative reviews — peeling and surface degradation tend to appear faster than expected with heavy use, typically within one to two years of regular flying. Sourcing replacement cushions through standard retail channels isn't always straightforward.

Warranty & Support

88%

The three-year full-unit replacement warranty is one of the strongest in its class and genuinely resonates with buyers as a purchase confidence factor. U.S.-based Pilot Care Service Centers make the actual warranty process feel accessible and less bureaucratic than overseas return programs.

A small number of users have reported uncertainty about exactly what usage scenarios fall within the replacement terms, suggesting the warranty language could be communicated more clearly at the point of sale. Response times through service centers have drawn mixed feedback during peak periods.

Value for Money

81%

19%

For pilots stepping up from passive headsets for the first time, this ANR aviation headset delivers a substantial quality jump at a price point that doesn't require saving for months. The combination of ANR performance and a strong warranty makes the cost feel justifiable for serious student and private pilots.

As the price climbs closer to entry-level Bose and Lightspeed territory, some buyers find themselves questioning the value trade-off in terms of build quality and audio refinement. Pilots who can stretch their budget further sometimes feel the gap in fit and finish is worth the extra investment.

Audio Input & Connectivity

76%

24%

The 3.5mm aux jack is a genuinely useful addition that lets pilots route secondary audio — weather updates, terrain alerts, or in-flight entertainment — without disrupting primary comms. Solo cross-country pilots in particular appreciate having independent audio access without intercom involvement.

Balancing audio levels between the aux input and intercom audio requires manual trial and error, and there is no onboard volume management to simplify that. Users hoping for Bluetooth connectivity will find the entirely wired design a limiting factor compared to more modern offerings.

Cable Design

71%

29%

The retractable cable reduces cockpit clutter noticeably compared to fixed-length cords, which is a small but welcome ergonomic detail during busy flight phases. Pilots who do a lot of pre-flight and post-flight movement appreciate not managing excess cable length.

The retractable mechanism has drawn durability concerns from longer-term users, with some reporting stiffness or inconsistent retraction after extended use. A few buyers noted the connector points where the cable meets the headset housing feel less robust than the rest of the build.

Cockpit Noise Fatigue Reduction

82%

18%

Pilots transitioning from passive headsets specifically comment on arriving at their destination feeling less mentally drained, which is one of the clearest real-world endorsements of ANR effectiveness. The cumulative benefit on multi-stop flying days is where this headset earns consistent praise.

The noise fatigue benefit is most pronounced in high-noise piston aircraft and less dramatic in quieter or newer airframes where the baseline noise level is already manageable. Pilots flying modern glass-cockpit aircraft with good soundproofing may find the ANR uplift less transformative.

Setup & Ease of Use

89%

Drop in two AA batteries, plug into the dual-plug panel, and the headset is ready — there is no pairing, app setup, or configuration required, which suits pilots who want their gear to work without thinking about it. The learning curve is essentially zero for anyone who has used an aviation headset before.

The lack of any onboard controls or smart features means there is nothing to customize or fine-tune, which may frustrate pilots accustomed to headsets with integrated volume controls or sidetone adjustment. Setup simplicity is a double-edged characteristic depending on what a buyer expects.

Compatibility

86%

Standard dual-plug aviation connectivity means this pilot headset works with virtually every GA aircraft audio panel without adapters or compatibility checks. The 3.5mm aux input broadens device compatibility further, covering phones, tablets, and handheld radios without any special cabling.

There is no compatibility with Bluetooth audio sources or wireless intercom systems, which increasingly matter to pilots adopting modern avionics and wireless cockpit setups. Helicopter pilots or those using non-standard panel configurations may encounter fitment or connector issues.

Portability & Storage

62%

38%

The headset's weight and dimensions are manageable enough for pilots who transport gear in a flight bag, and the retractable cable eliminates the tangle issue common with fixed-cord headsets during packing and unpacking.

The absence of a padded hard case is a genuine omission at this price tier — the cardboard box it ships in offers no real protection during transit. Pilots who travel commercially to fly rental aircraft or take their headset on trips would benefit from investing in a separate case.

Suitable for:

The Faro G2 ANR Pilot Aviation Headset is a strong match for student pilots and private pilots who fly regularly and want meaningful noise protection without stepping into the price territory of boutique brands. If you're spending hours in a Cessna 172, a Piper Cherokee, or any older piston aircraft where engine noise is a constant companion, the active noise reduction here will make a noticeable difference in how you feel after a long cross-country flight. It's also a practical option for pilots who fly diverse legs and need a headset that simply keeps working — the 30-hour battery life on standard AAs means you're not babying a charging schedule between flights. Buyers who genuinely value warranty coverage will find the three-year full-unit replacement policy reassuring in a way that most competitors don't match at this tier. The aux input is a bonus for solo pilots who want to pipe in a weather briefing or audio without tying up the intercom.

Not suitable for:

The Faro G2 ANR Pilot Aviation Headset is probably not the right call for professional pilots or high-frequency flyers who demand the absolute ceiling in audio fidelity and build durability. The faux leather ear cushions, while comfortable initially, have shown wear over time with heavy use — pilots logging serious daily hours may find themselves needing to replace the cushions sooner than expected. Those already invested in a premium brand ecosystem, or who prioritize ultra-lightweight carbon-frame construction, will likely find this pilot headset a step behind its higher-priced rivals in fit and finish. It is also not designed for helicopter operations or environments requiring specific aviation authority certifications beyond general aviation use. If long-haul professional aviation is your daily reality, the build quality here may not keep pace with that demand.

Specifications

Noise Reduction: The active noise reduction system is rated at up to 52dB of attenuation, combining passive ear cup isolation with active electronic noise compression to reduce cockpit engine noise.
Microphone Type: A noise-cancelling electret microphone is integrated to capture clear pilot transmissions while rejecting ambient cockpit noise during radio communication.
Audio Input: A 3.5mm auxiliary jack allows connection to MP3 players, radios, iPods, and iPads for independent audio monitoring without using the aircraft intercom.
Battery Life: The ANR system runs for approximately 30 hours on two standard AA batteries, which are not included and must be purchased separately.
Driver Type: The headset uses a dynamic audio driver for speaker output, suited to cockpit communication and in-flight audio monitoring.
Ear Cushions: Over-ear cups are fitted with faux leather (pleather) cushioning designed for extended wear comfort during multi-hour flight sessions.
Cable Design: The headset features a retractable wired cable, reducing cockpit clutter while maintaining a secure wired connection to aircraft audio panels.
Connectivity: All audio connectivity is wired via standard aviation dual-plug and 3.5mm jack; there is no Bluetooth or wireless capability.
Weight: The headset weighs approximately 1.25 pounds (roughly 567 grams), keeping it manageable for long-duration wear without excessive neck or jaw fatigue.
Dimensions: Physical dimensions measure 8 x 4 x 9.5 inches, reflecting a standard over-ear aviation headset footprint suitable for most adult head sizes.
Ear Placement: The design uses a circumaural (over-ear) configuration, fully enclosing the ear for maximum passive noise isolation when combined with the ANR system.
Warranty: Faro Aviation backs this headset with a three-year commercial-grade replacement warranty, serviced through Pilot Care Service Centers located in the United States.
Generation: This is the Generation 2 (G2) iteration of the Faro ANR headset line, first made available in March 2010 and continuously sold since.
Carrying Case: The headset ships in standard cardboard packaging; no padded hard-shell carrying case is included in the box.
Power Source: Two AA batteries power the active noise reduction electronics; the headset can still function passively as a standard headset if batteries are depleted.
Compatibility: Designed for general aviation use with standard dual-plug (PJ-055 and PJ-068) aircraft audio panels common in most GA cockpits.
Water Resistance: The headset carries no water resistance rating and is not designed for use in wet or moisture-heavy environments.
Manufacturer: The Faro G2 is manufactured by MOTA under the Faro Aviation brand, with after-sale support provided through U.S.-based service centers.

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FAQ

Yes, the Faro G2 ANR Pilot Aviation Headset uses the standard dual-plug configuration (PJ-055 and PJ-068) found in the vast majority of GA aircraft, so it will plug straight into most Cessnas, Pipers, Beechcrafts, and similar aircraft without any adapters.

The 52dB figure represents the combined passive and active attenuation — not the ANR alone. In practical terms, you will notice a significant reduction in low-frequency engine drone, especially in louder piston aircraft, but it won't make the cockpit perfectly silent. Think of it as meaningfully quieter and less fatiguing, not noise-free.

It runs on two standard AA batteries, which are easy to find anywhere. The rated battery life is 30 hours of ANR operation, which in real-world use tends to hold up reasonably well. If the batteries die mid-flight, the headset still functions passively — you just lose the active noise cancellation.

Yes, that is one of the more useful features on this headset. The 3.5mm aux jack lets you route audio from a phone, tablet, or handheld radio independently of the aircraft intercom, so you can monitor a secondary audio source without interfering with your primary comms. Volume balancing between sources requires a bit of experimentation.

Most pilots find the noise-cancelling electret mic performs well in typical cockpit environments — transmissions come through cleanly and controllers rarely ask for repeats. A minority of users have noted sensitivity can drop in particularly windy or open-air situations, but for standard enclosed cockpits it handles the job reliably.

Faro's warranty is a full-unit replacement policy, not just a parts or repair program. If the headset fails within three years under normal use, you get a replacement unit rather than waiting on a repair. Service is handled through U.S.-based Pilot Care Service Centers, which makes the process more straightforward than dealing with overseas warranty claims.

At roughly 1.25 pounds, it sits in a reasonable weight range for an ANR aviation headset, and most pilots report no significant discomfort during three- to four-hour sessions. The faux leather ear cushions feel comfortable initially, though some users find they retain heat during warmer flights. Longer-term, the cushions have shown some wear with very heavy use.

Yes, the faux leather cushions do wear with regular use — this is common to virtually all headsets using pleather materials. Replacement cushions for this model are available but may not be stocked at every aviation supply retailer, so it's worth identifying a source before you need them rather than scrambling mid-season.

Pilots who have switched from David Clark passive headsets to this ANR aviation headset consistently report a meaningful step up in noise suppression, particularly for low-frequency engine rumble. David Clark passive headsets are durable workhorses, but the active electronics here make a noticeable difference on longer flights in loud aircraft.

No, this headset is entirely wired — there is no Bluetooth or wireless variant in the Faro G2 line. If wireless connectivity is a priority for you, you would need to look at a different model from another manufacturer, as this pilot headset is designed around traditional wired aviation audio connections.