If you’ve ever flown on an airplane, you’ve likely experienced the familiar sensation of your ears popping during takeoff and landing. This phenomenon, while sometimes uncomfortable, is a normal and essential part of air travel. But what exactly causes your ears to pop, and why does it happen specifically during these phases of flight? This article delves into the science behind ear popping, explaining the physiological processes involved and offering tips to alleviate discomfort. Discover why your ears pop during airplane takeoff and landing. Learn how air pressure changes affect the ears and tips to alleviate discomfort during flights. The Anatomy of the Ear To understand why your ears pop, it’s important to first understand the basic anatomy of the ear. The ear is divided into three main parts: Outer Ear:  This includes the visible part of the ear (the pinna) and the ear canal, which leads to the eardrum. Middle Ear:  Located behind the eardrum, the midd...