Need Better In-Flight Maps
geovisualization, mapmaking February 14th, 2009
Whenever I fly, I’m always appreciative when I get a seat with a personal display with the map feature that allows you to see where the plane is, and how quickly your journey is progressing. I leave the map running, and spend a good bit of time gazing out the window if the sky is clear. I’m sure that this habit is typical for most people in a geography-related business, but I’m surprised that there aren’t that many passengers gazing out the window.
The patterns on the ground are fun to look at with questions about geologic formations, patterns of roads and energy infrastructure, and curiosity about history. The configuration of a city from above can be a pattern of great beauty, as can the patchwork of farmland and forest. And the weather adds some fascinating elements, including cloud fantasy lands of multiple dimensions.
On domestic flights, the ground features usually help me guess where and what I’m seeing. On International flights, I usually don’t have a clue. I was flying over the Gulf at night recently and saw a pattern of several well-lit cities that I’d love to have known the names of and been able to explore in more detail. Why can’t I query the in-flight map?
The current in-flight map is really weak in execution. There’s just a high-level static view with very few labels. Certainly it couldn’t be that hard to provide a feature to look at the map more closely. If there’s Google Earth for the iPhone, then certainly it could be adapted for the back of seat display. I’d sure love to have an interactive map as an entertainment option in the air. It sure would beat the programming that’s typically available, adding education and insight to better connect me to the world.
Posts
February 16th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
I take a handheld GPS along with me for this purpose. Garmin 60Csx. It picks up the sats fine if you put it by a window, and the airlines seem ok with allowing them.
February 17th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
That’s a great idea. I’ve heard that the airlines are open to GPS use, but have been hesitant to add another piece of kit to my electronic travel bag.