View Full Version : Following your flight on a map
For when an airline doesn't offer a map of the route as in-flight entertainment, is it possible to download maps to a phone to use to follow progress and identify towns etc when in flight mode? I can download Ordnance Survey but that is of little use flying abroad!
DaveReidUK
23rd Feb 2022, 11:29
There are plenty of apps - free and paid - that allow you to use offline maps. I typically use Maps.me when I'm abroad (remember to download the map areas you need before you leave home).
The tricky part is whether your phone's GPS will work on board. Ideally you need a window seat, and there are suggestions that you shouldn't fly on a 787 with its smart windows.
Dave Gittins
23rd Feb 2022, 11:39
787 definitely doesn't allow an iPad's GPS to work but my easyJet trip tomorrow should allow me to follow the route on Skydemon all the way. Also a fan of Maps.me.
My "Copilot" GPS I use in the car gets a bit out of sorts when up in the air and traveling at 450 kts as it tries desperately to follow roads.
awair
23rd Feb 2022, 12:48
The general problem may be with initialising the GPS position.
If you can do this on the ground, and maintain connection, that should work. Trying at 450 knots may cause the app to think it’s malfunctioning, and never lock on.
Good luck.
thanks, I've downloaded maps.me
Dave Gittins
23rd Feb 2022, 15:06
My biggest problem with Maps.me is that it often show lots of detail (and a lot of airfields and farm strips) but not the names of biggish towns. maybe there is a setting I've missed.
ZH875
23rd Feb 2022, 16:40
I used to use Maps.Me but switched to Windy Maps as they have more detail. Again easy to download.
Flyhighfirst
23rd Feb 2022, 19:38
For when an airline doesn't offer a map of the route as in-flight entertainment, is it possible to download maps to a phone to use to follow progress and identify towns etc when in flight mode? I can download Ordnance Survey but that is of little use flying abroad!
What I do is download my route on Google maps for offline use. You have to do it in chunks. Then when you are flying as long as you have a window seat your gps on your phone will still work and you can follow the entire route.
India Four Two
24th Feb 2022, 09:07
I used to use Maps.Me but switched to Windy Maps as they have more detail. Again easy to download.
Unless I've missed something, windy.com doesn't show GPS location.
I really did need to hold my phone against the window for it to work. Thanks for the help.
vancouv
3rd Mar 2022, 10:55
Do most airlines now allow you to have your device in non flight mode?
Location still works in flight mode.
vancouv
4th Mar 2022, 13:03
Ahhhh, I didn't realise that, I assumed it stopped all external communication. I guess position is receiving only.