Is It Possible to Use GPS While I'm in a Commercial Airliner?

One of the most fascinating aspects of flying is the ability to track your exact location and see where you are flying over. Most modern airplanes are equipped with an in-flight entertainment system that includes a flight tracker, showing real-time data such as the plane's location on a map, altitude, speed, and estimated time of arrival. This can be particularly captivating, especially when crossing different countries during a long flight.

First-Hand Experience: My Trip to Canada

For my first flight to Canada, my parents were concerned about knowing where I was during the long journey. To alleviate their concerns, EaseMyTrip’s customer support team provided valuable information. They explained that there are ways to track the flight's location even while it's in the air. Through online websites like FlightAware or Flightradar24, one can enter the flight number and view the live location of the aircraft. This reassured my parents as they could track my journey from the comfort of their home.

Considerations for Using GPS While on a Commercial Airliner

Yes, it is possible to use GPS while on a commercial airliner, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind:

Personal Devices

Many modern smartphones and tablets have built-in GPS capabilities. While in-flight, you typically need to keep your device in airplane mode. To access mapping applications, you may need to connect to the in-flight Wi-Fi. This ensures that your device remains compliant with airline regulations during takeoff and landing.

In-Flight Entertainment Systems

Some airlines provide in-flight entertainment systems that include a moving map feature. This allows passengers to see the aircraft's current location, altitude, and speed, along with information about the surrounding geography. These systems can be a convenient and reliable way to track your flight path.

Altitude Limitations

GPS can provide accurate location data even at high altitudes. However, the effectiveness of GPS can be affected by factors like signal interference and the aircraft's altitude. Generally, GPS works well above ground level, but it's important to be aware that signal strength might be weaker at higher altitudes.

Regulations

When using GPS or personal devices, always follow the airline's regulations regarding device usage. While most airlines allow the use of personal devices in airplane mode during the flight, rules can vary. Before the flight, make sure to familiarize yourself with the airline's guidelines.

Conclusion

In summary, while you can use GPS while flying, access to real-time mapping may depend on your device and the airline's offerings. By being aware of these considerations, you can enjoy the unique experience of tracking your flight path in real-time from your personal device or the in-flight entertainment system.