I don't have an axe to grind either. Both Boeing and Airbus have their advantages and disadvantages.
But since we're talking about handling skill in this thread, on the Airbus hand flying definitely isn't on my list of advantages. Therefore I agree with SAXONBLOKE that it's a bit ironic that Airbus is now raising the issue of flying skills after they more or less designed the pilot out of the flight deck.
IMHO, on the Airbus it's difficult (both long haul
and short haul) to keep up flying skills if you constantly have computers interfering in the process. Just ask the average Airbus pilot after they've made a hand flown landing during gusty crosswind conditions!
