MB - I think that's because Google maps depends on network access to see the map at your location, unless you pre-download the maps. I can confirm that the GPS in an I-phone works even in Airplane mode, and it works just fine when there is no network access. I once tracked my plane in Memory Maps on a flight to Brisbane, and it was interesting to see the speed reported as over 900 KM/H! It was interesting to see the landscape below and check out the map on the phone screen.\