Bose A30 ANR Aviation Headset U174 Helicopter Battery Power with Bluetooth 857641-3130

Which aircraft is the U174 plug version of the Bose A30 made for?

This model uses a single U174 helicopter plug, the connection built for rotorcraft that route headset audio through a U174 jack. It is designed for helicopter operations such as emergency medical services, law enforcement, and commercial transport. If your aircraft uses a different connector, choose the matching A30 version instead, so confirm your panel jack type before you order.

Does the Bose A30 helicopter headset have Bluetooth?

Yes. This 857641-3130 model includes Bluetooth, so you can connect an electronic flight bag, take a phone call on the ground, or stream audio. Active equalization enhances the incoming signal, and the wireless connection integrates with mobile devices and flight bag apps without compromising your intercom audio, helping voice communication stay clear while other audio plays.

Can you plug a phone or tablet into the Bose A30 with a cable?

Yes. In addition to Bluetooth, the A30 includes an auxiliary audio input, so you can connect a device with a cable when you prefer a wired link. This lets you feed audio from a phone, tablet, or other source into the headset. Wired auxiliary input is handy as a backup or when you want a direct connection rather than a wireless one.

What battery does the A30 use, and how long does it last?

The A30 runs on two AA batteries and delivers a long 45 plus hours of use in typical conditions, with over 25 hours when you use Bluetooth continuously. An automatic shutoff feature helps preserve battery life when the headset is powered on but not in use, which is helpful across long missions and full days of helicopter flying.

How many noise cancellation modes does the A30 have?

The A30 offers three user-selectable noise cancellation modes so you can tune the active noise reduction to your situation. Helicopter cockpits vary widely in their noise profile, so switching modes lets you optimize audio clarity for each phase of flight. Bose pairs this adjustable reduction with active equalization that enhances incoming signals for clearer communication in demanding rotorcraft environments.

What is the tap control feature on the Bose A30?

Tap control lets you talk through to ground crew or passengers without removing the headset. A quick tap on the earcup opens up outside sound so you can hold a brief conversation, then return to full noise cancellation. This is useful during ground handling, passenger briefings, and crew coordination in busy helicopter operations where you need to communicate quickly.

Can you move the Bose A30 microphone to the other side?

Yes. The A30 uses a toolless side-swappable microphone and cable, so you can mount the boom and down cable on either the left or right side. This suits both left and right-handed pilots and right-seat or instructor positions in a helicopter. No tools are needed to make the change, which makes the headset easy to share or set up for your seat.

How does the Bose A30 microphone handle always-on and push-to-talk intercoms?

The A30 uses a precision-focused microphone built for clear transmission on both always-on and push-to-talk systems. It is designed to capture your voice while rejecting surrounding noise, which matters in loud rotorcraft cabins. Whether your helicopter intercom keys the mic automatically or only when you press to talk, the microphone is engineered to send a clear signal to the other stations.

Can you wear glasses or sunglasses with the Bose A30?

The A30 is built around comfort, with about 20 percent less clamping force than the A20 and a lightweight design for all-day wear. The lower clamping force and cushioned ear seals help the headset sit comfortably for long missions. For the best acoustic seal and noise reduction while wearing glasses, position the temple arms so the ear cushions can still seal evenly around your ears.

How is the A30 different from the older A20?

The A30 is the next step beyond the A20. The headline comfort change is about 20 percent less clamping force for easier all-day wear, along with a lightweight design. It also adds three user-selectable noise cancellation modes, tap control for quick talk-through, and a toolless side-swappable microphone and cable that suits both left and right-handed pilots.

Is the Bose A30 certified, and how durable is it?

Yes. The A30 is FAA TSO and EASA E/TSO-C139a certified and was tested through 145 quality assurance protocols, reflecting Bose durability standards. It weighs about 14.2 ounces for a light on-head feel and is backed by a comprehensive worldwide warranty. Because approvals can vary by aircraft and country, confirm any specific operational requirement with your operator or certifying authority.