What is the best way to control the "popping" in your ears when on an airplane?

Airline ear popping: The eustachian tube at the back of the throat equalizes pressure between the atmosphere and the inner ear. When going up pressure comes out and is usually easy. On descent, the higher outer pressure has to re-enter. This is facilitated by yawning, stretching the back of the throat and chewing gum can be helpful. Do not blow as this may enter secretions into the ear.

OTC options: If this a frequent occurrence, one can try taking sudafed two hours before the flight and chew gum during ascent and decent. Also two sprays of afrin (oxymetazoline) in the nose on both sides just before the flight may help. Finally, there are certain ear plugs called "ear planes" that can help some of the ear discomfort during flying as the keep the ear drum from being moving due to the change in pressure.