Bose A20 Aviation Headset Manual

The Bose A20 Aviation Headset is a premium aviation headset featuring Bose noise-canceling technology, Bluetooth® connectivity for wireless audio and communication, auxiliary audio input, dual plug configurations (dual GA or LEMO), adjustable headband, plush ear cushions, and a flexible boom microphone with mute function. Designed for pilots in general aviation, commercial, and military aircraft. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Connecting to Aircraft 7. Using Bluetooth & Audio 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Headset with noise-canceling electronics, Control Module with Bluetooth, Microphone Boom, Ear Cushions, Headband, Cables (dual GA or LEMO), Carrying Case.

FeatureDescription
Active Noise CancelingReduces ambient cockpit noise for clearer audio
Bluetooth ConnectivityWireless connection for mobile devices and intercoms
Control ModuleVolume, mute, Bluetooth pairing, auxiliary input
Microphone BoomFlexible, noise-canceling mic with mute switch
Dual Plug OptionsStandard dual GA (U-174/U) or LEMO connectors
Auxiliary Audio Input3.5mm jack for connecting external audio sources
Battery PowerAA battery (up to 45 hours) or aircraft power
Comfort FeaturesAdjustable headband, plush ear seals, lightweight design
Carrying CaseProtective case for storage and transport
TriPort Acoustic StructureEnhanced audio performance at lower volumes

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present.

  1. Connect headset to aircraft: Plug cable into aircraft jack (pilot or copilot).
  2. Install battery: Insert AA battery into control module (if using battery power).
  3. Adjust headband: Expand or contract for secure, comfortable fit.
  4. Position microphone: Bend boom so mic is close to corner of mouth.
  5. Connect auxiliary audio (optional): Plug 3.5mm cable into control module.

WARNING! Ensure headset is securely connected before engine start. Verify mute function works properly.

First-Time Use

Power on headset; follow pairing and audio setup.

  1. Power on: Slide power switch on control module to ON.
  2. Pair Bluetooth: Press and hold Bluetooth button until LED flashes; select "Bose A20" on your device.
  3. Adjust volume: Use volume wheel on control module.
  4. Test microphone: Press mic mute button; ensure transmit light illuminates when unmuted.
  5. Set audio priorities: Intercom audio overrides Bluetooth audio when active.

CAUTION! Do not use headset if damaged. Ensure proper fit to maintain noise cancellation effectiveness.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Control Module: Power switch, Volume wheel, Bluetooth button, Mute button, Auxiliary input jack.

Functions: POWER (On/Off), VOLUME (adjust intercom and audio levels), BLUETOOTH (pairing and status LED), MUTE (toggle microphone on/off), AUX IN (connect external audio).

Audio Priority: Intercom communication takes precedence over Bluetooth audio. Bluetooth: Pair with one device at a time; LED indicates pairing mode (flashing) or connected (solid). Microphone: Mute button on control module or aircraft panel; red LED indicates muted state. Comfort: Adjust headband tension; rotate ear cups for optimal seal.

Connecting to Aircraft

Standard dual GA plug: Insert into aircraft jack. LEMO plug: Secure twist-lock connection.

  1. Turn off aircraft avionics before connecting.
  2. Match plug type to aircraft jack (dual GA or LEMO).
  3. Ensure secure connection; test audio and microphone.
  4. For dual-pilot operations, connect to appropriate jack (pilot or copilot).

Tip: Use aircraft power if available to conserve battery. Verify plug is fully seated.

Using Bluetooth & Audio

Supports wireless audio streaming and phone calls.

  1. Pairing: Hold Bluetooth button until LED flashes; enable Bluetooth on device and select "Bose A20".
  2. Audio streaming: Play music/podcasts from paired device; adjust volume on control module.
  3. Phone calls: Answer/end calls with device; microphone and speakers function for calls.
  4. Auxiliary input: Connect non-Bluetooth devices via 3.5mm cable.
  5. Audio mixing: Intercom audio mixes with Bluetooth/auxiliary audio; intercom overrides during transmission.

WARNING! Do not pair or adjust settings during critical flight phases. Ensure Bluetooth devices are secured in cockpit.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug from aircraft before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth for ear cushions and headband; mild soap and water for removable parts.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in liquids. Avoid solvents or abrasive cleaners. Store in carrying case when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Bluetooth® qualified; Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Copyright © 2025 Bose Corporation; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com/aviation or contact Bose Aviation Headset Support at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power/audioDead battery, loose connectionReplace AA battery; ensure cable is fully plugged into aircraft and headset.
Bluetooth not pairingOut of range, pairing mode not activeHold Bluetooth button until LED flashes; move device within 3 ft (1 m).
Microphone not workingMuted, connection issueCheck mute button; ensure plug is fully seated in aircraft jack.
Poor noise cancellationLow battery, improper sealReplace battery; adjust headband and ear cups for better seal.
Intermittent audioLoose cable, interferenceCheck cable connections; move Bluetooth device closer.

Reset: Power off headset, remove battery for 30 seconds, reinstall battery and power on.

Service: 1-800-999-2673; www.bose.com/aviation

Bose A20 Aviation Headset Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025