Just for interest sake, several times I've used a handheld mapping GPS at my window seat. (It works about 95% of the time) Air Canada crew & a few European (LH,KL) never question it, if anything they ask me if we're on time! (even a few pilots have wanted to see it) However, on several US airlines, I've been told to turn it off...it can't be used etc. I have heard conflicting stories: FAA says it's fine, does not transmit OR "no way" As it is a receiver, it doesn't appear to be a problem, but ???
Any thoughts?

Well, every radio receiver is also to some extent a transmitter. The worry is that if you had one malfunctioning device, or perhaps 50 people on board with normal devices, how would that affect the aircraft's GPS?

You're right in saying that there's no explicit FAA prohibition on passenger use of GPS. However, each airline is responsible for developing its own rules to regulate which devices (that are not otherwise prohibited) are permitted for use in flight. There are many factors involved, including type of aircraft, different instruments used by the various airlines, crew training, etc. Each airline works with its pilots and the FAA to come up with what they will permit or prohibit in flight. Once this plan is approved by the FAA, the passengers are required to adhere to it, even though the particulars may have come from the airline and not an explicit FAA regulation.

Most airlines have chosen to take the conservative route when it comes to passenger GPS use, especially since GPS is used in some situations for navigation. The "every receiver is also a transmitter" issue is also why most airlines prohibit FM radio receivers and televisions from being operated in flight.

The only airline that I've noticed explicitly *permits* GPS use by passengers is Southwest.

In Southwest's case it's so they can save the expense of buying one for the pilots.

Itsa rumored HP is going to attach a GPS to each unaccompanied minor (UM) they transport. It will make it a lot easier to find the cute little tikes after HP will undoubtedly (but custonarily) lose them.

MisterNice

I'm not condoning the use of "prohibited personal electronic devices" but I doubt an FA is readily able to discern what a GPS looks like.

Just make sure not to try this when I'm on board...

[This message has been edited by chexfan (edited 09-06-2001).]

The antenna stuck on the window gives mine away!

It's totally at the pilots discretion. I always ask and sometimes they say yes and sometimes they say no.

The FAA does not prohibit them.