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Aviation Headset Connector Guide: Plugs Explained
Aviation Headset Connector Guide: Plugs Explained
The right aviation headset also needs the right connector. Learn the difference between dual GA/PJ, U-174, 6-pin LEMO and 5-pin XLR configurations before you order.
Dual GAU-174LEMOXLRMany fixed-wing GA aircraft use dual GA/PJ plugs, while helicopters commonly use U-174/U connections. Selected panel-powered, turbine and airline aircraft use 6-pin LEMO or 5-pin XLR configurations. Always verify the aircraft’s actual audio connection before buying.
What are the main aviation headset connector types?
Headset connector compatibility depends on the aircraft audio installation. A headset family may be sold with several cable configurations, so the model name alone is not enough.
| Connector | Common application | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Dual GA / PJ | Many fixed-wing GA aircraft | Two-plug aircraft audio configuration |
| U-174 / U | Helicopters | Helicopter audio connector |
| 6-pin LEMO | Selected panel-powered aircraft | Exact aircraft installation and power |
| 5-pin XLR | Selected turbine/airline/panel systems | Exact connector and pin configuration |
Dual GA / PJ plugs
Dual GA, often called dual PJ, uses separate connections for microphone and headphone audio. It is a common configuration for compatible fixed-wing general-aviation aircraft and training aircraft.
If you fly a Cessna, Piper or another GA aircraft, check the headset currently used in the aircraft rather than assuming the aircraft model guarantees a particular connector.
U-174 / U plugs for helicopter headsets
U-174/U is a common helicopter headset connection. A helicopter headset can look similar to a fixed-wing headset while using a different connector, so check the aircraft before ordering.
For example, Jet Aviation Spare Parts lists the David Clark H10-13H with a U-174/U plug, 13.4-ounce weight and 23 dB certified noise reduction rating.
6-pin LEMO aviation headsets
Six-pin LEMO configurations are used with compatible aircraft audio systems and can support aircraft-powered headset operation. The aircraft installation must support the required connection.
Jet Aviation Spare Parts lists Bose headset configurations using LEMO connections, including the ProFlight Series 2 family.
5-pin XLR aviation headsets
Five-pin XLR configurations are used in selected aircraft audio systems. They are not interchangeable with standard dual-GA connections.
Jet Aviation Spare Parts currently lists a Bose A30 5-pin XLR configuration. The A30 family is also offered with other connector options, making it important to select the correct cable configuration when ordering.
How to identify your aviation headset connector
1. Check the headset already in the aircraft
Look at the existing plug. Note whether it has two separate plugs or a single circular connector.
2. Check aircraft and avionics documentation
Documentation for the audio panel or aircraft installation is more reliable than guessing from appearance.
3. Photograph the connector
A clear photo plus the aircraft make and model can help the parts team identify the appropriate configuration.
Common aviation headset connector mistakes
Buying by model name only
The same headset family may have multiple cable configurations.
Confusing GA and helicopter plugs
Dual GA and U-174 are different aircraft audio configurations.
Ignoring aircraft power
Panel-powered configurations require compatible aircraft wiring and power.
Connector decision in 30 seconds
Fixed-wing GA? Check for dual GA/PJ first.
Helicopter? Check for U-174/U or the aircraft-specified connection.
Panel-powered aircraft? Verify whether the installation uses LEMO or XLR.
Still unsure? Send the aircraft model and a photo of the existing connector before ordering.
Related guides
Best Aviation Headsets for Pilots: 2026 Buying Guide
Best Aviation Headset for IFR Flying: 2026 Guide
Best Aviation Headset for Flight Instructors
Frequently asked questions
What is a dual GA aviation headset connector?
Dual GA, commonly called dual PJ, uses separate plugs for microphone and headphone audio and is common in many fixed-wing GA aircraft.
What connector do helicopter headsets use?
U-174/U is a common helicopter headset connection, but the aircraft installation should always be verified.
What is a 6-pin LEMO headset?
It is a connector configuration used with compatible aircraft systems and can support aircraft-powered headset operation.
What is a 5-pin XLR aviation headset?
It is a connector configuration used in selected aircraft audio systems. Confirm the exact aircraft connection before ordering.
Can I use a dual GA headset in a helicopter?
Not necessarily. Helicopter audio systems commonly use different connectors, so verify the aircraft configuration first.
How do I know which connector I need?
Check the headset currently installed, aircraft documentation and audio panel. If uncertain, provide the aircraft model and a clear photo of the connector before ordering.
Aircraft audio installations vary. Confirm the exact connector, wiring and power requirements before purchase or installation. This guide is general buying guidance and is not aircraft maintenance or installation advice.