SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-ear-pressure-equalizing

Which actions can help equalize middle-ear pressure during altitude changes?

Chewing, yawning, or swallowing can open the Eustachian tubes.

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  1. Holding the breath
  2. Chewing or swallowing ✔
  3. Closing both fresh-air vents

Why: The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ears to the throat. Chewing, yawning, or swallowing can open them so pressure equalizes.

Huh, didn't know that: A cold, ear infection, or sore throat can make equalization difficult.

The dad joke
The ears swallowed their pride and equalized the pressure.
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References

Answer: Chewing or swallowing. The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ears to the throat. Chewing, yawning, or swallowing can open them so pressure equalizes.

  1. FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Chapter 17 www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/19_phak_ch17.pdf
    open during chewing, yawning, or swallowing to equalize pressure
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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