From a report from someone I know who did the JAA CPL recently, GPS was not used for most or all of it;
Well, I did not use it during my CPL skills test or at any point during my CPL training in the UK (not officially anyway, the instructor had it on to keep an eye on our position respect to controlled airspace--which means a quick glance at the screen and I knew exactly where I was).
On the other hand, when I did my instrument rating in Spain I was trained and examined by pilots who actually fly in commercial operations (from PC12s to B777), and they taught me exactly how to use the GPS (entering FPLs, diversions, fuel metering, etc.) which besides we actually used during our practise sorties. Considering that whenever flying IFR in Europe ATC will consider you LNAV capable and clear you accordingly, it is totally stupid not to ensure students are proficient with the kit.
There were also other invaluable bits of wisdom such as pointing out how you would go on autopilot if you had to deal with an emergency or were otherwise mentally overloaded, etc. All very practical stuff which even those of us with little hair on our chests can do.
Having said that, I do not generally use GPS on VFR pleasure flights, purely because it's more fun doing it the traditional way. Hell, on my last long flight I crossed half of Europe and back on partial panel thanks to a duff suction pump and had a great time doing so. But of course, if I just wanted to get from A to B, or was flying commercially, then no doubt I would make full use of whatever I have. Same if I think there is a good chance of getting in trouble (e.g., flying over lots of water).
use of GPS is not allowed for the main navigation part but is allowed for the diversion exercise (as is radio nav, looking out of the window and I Follow Roads - anything goes!)
Even calling a friend?
