Use of handheld GPS on board

[oscarmike]

Hello all

I fly as a PAX fairly frequently, and also being a PPL I usually drop my hand held GPS into my hand luggage.

I have used this on board several times (although never during take-off or landing) just out of curiosity to see where we are, our altitude and cruising speed etc.

I normally check with the cabin crew, who on occasions have checked with the flight crew to make sure it is OK, so far without any problems.

However, I used it this weekend on a flight from Spain to the UK (although I have to admit I did not OK it with the cabin crew) and a member of CC spotted it and asked me what it was. I told her it was a GPS and she told me in no uncertain terms to switch it off and that devices like this should NOT be used in flight.

Naturally I accepted what she said and complied.

However, I am curious - is there any guideline given to CC on this?

I saw a similar thread relating to airband radios, and can understand this not being acceptable to use on board, but surely a handheld GPS can not cause any problems, especially whilst in the cruise?

Regards

OM